The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation:

Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of the pillars of Newfoundland and Labrador’s successful film and television industry.

Since 1989, the St. John’s International Women’s Film Festival has been leading with a bold vision to create gender equity in the screen arts, and it is now recognized as a marquee event within the Canadian film industry.

I would like to congratulate the festival’s board of directors and staff for their tireless commitment to providing a platform for women and gender-diverse artists to share their perspectives, and also for shining the spotlight on our province’s unique arts and culture.

The festival also provides invaluable opportunities for learning and networking for those who are seeking to develop their craft.

Speaker, the 2023 Festival opens tonight and the lineup of feature-length and short films is nothing short of spectacular – films from around the world that are not only entertaining, but also inspiring, informative and thought-provoking.

Headlining this year is Party Pirate, directed by our province’s own Ruth Lawrence and written by her son Luke.

I would also like to congratulate Dr. Noreen Golfman, O.N.L., one of the festival’s founding directors and vice-chair of Picture NL, on being invested into the Order of Newfoundland and Labrador.

This year’s festival runs until October 21 and I encourage everyone to come out and enjoy the shows!