“Little Bird” is a powerful Canadian TV series that sheds light on a dark chapter in the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada
“Little Bird” is a powerful Canadian TV series that sheds light on a dark chapter in the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Produced by Jennifer Podemski, an Indigenous filmmaker known for her dedication to telling authentic Indigenous stories, the series takes viewers on an emotional journey into the past, focusing on the Sixties Scoop—a government policy that led to the removal of thousands of Indigenous children from their families in the 1960s.
The show’s protagonist, Bezhig Little Bird (played by Darla Contois), was one of these children, taken from her family at a young age and adopted into a white Jewish family. As an adult, Bezhig, now known as Esther, embarks on a quest to reconnect with her biological family and reclaim her lost identity. Her journey is one of personal discovery, but it also unravels the pain and trauma faced by thousands of Indigenous families affected by the Sixties Scoop.
Other key characters include Dora (played by Ellyn Jade), Bezhig’s birth mother, whose heart-wrenching story of losing her children is central to the series. The show doesn’t shy away from the grief and anguish endured by these mothers who were often left without answers, while the children were forced to navigate the complexities of their new lives, often cut off from their language, culture, and heritage.
Jennifer Podemski, a leading voice in Indigenous media, approached “Little Bird” with the goal of amplifying Indigenous perspectives. The series addresses not just the historical events of the Sixties Scoop but also its lasting effects on intergenerational trauma, cultural erasure, and the resilience of Indigenous communities.
“Little Bird” serves as a poignant reminder of the injustices faced by Indigenous children during the 1960s and the enduring strength of those who continue to fight for recognition, justice, and healing. Through the lens of Bezhig’s story, the show paints a broader picture of the Indigenous experience, offering viewers an opportunity to reflect on history while fostering empathy and under
standing.
