You've Got the Power: Documentary Film as a Tool of Environmental Adult Education

Abstract

Educators call for more creative means to combat the moribund narratives of contemporary environmentalism. Using visual methodology and environmental adult education theory, this article discusses how a documentary film titled You've Got the Power works to pose questions about complex environmental issues and develop critical thinking and cultural understandings. By juxtaposing narratives and images the film artfully, critically, and emotively exposes diverse ways of knowing and viewing the world, problematises concepts of citizenship and ecological justice and illuminates the complex contemporary politics of environmentalism. Perhaps most importantly, it challenges stereotypic notions of aboriginal peoples in Canada, by highlighting their critical environmental roles and actions and thereby provides a much needed source of inspiration and hope for change.