Imagine spending years in a Canadian prison without being charged with a crime or knowing exactly what you’re accused of. This disturbing reality is exposed in the award-winning film, The Secret Trial 5, to be screened by World Community on Wednesday, April 29 at 7 pm in the Upper Florence Filberg Centre, Courtenay.
A film about the human impact of the “War on Terror,” The Secret Trial 5 is a sobering examination of the Canadian government’s use of security certificates, a Kafkaesque tool that allows for indefinite detention without charges, based on evidence not revealed to the accused or their lawyers. Over the last decade, this rare and highly controversial device has been used to detain five men for nearly 30 years combined. To date, none has been charged with a crime or seen the evidence against them. Through the experience of the detainees and their families, the film raises poignant questions about the balance between security and liberty.
“It is no wonder this film won the Audience Choice award at the Vancouver Amnesty International Film Festival” notes programmer Wayne Bradley. “With the even more draconian Bill C-51 being pushed by the Harper government, it is frightening to see what powers the Canadian security services already possess.” The film was also a “Top Ten” Winner at the 2014 Hot Docs Film Festival.
“The film is a must-see for anyone who is interested in knowing how our government has attempted to uphold national security and what it has been willing to sacrifice both morally and financially.” Huffington Post
The Comox Valley Peace Group is co-sponsoring the screening. Admission is by donation. Everyone is welcome. FMI: 250 337-5412