With many moviegoers still feeling hesitant to return to theatres due to COVID-19, a Richmond grassroots society decided to throw two small documentary watching parties to raise awareness about mental illness and engage with Richmondites.
The Community Mental Wellness Association of Canada (CMWAC), a not-for-profit dedicated to empowering people with mental illnesses, will host two events in late August and early September inviting people to watch the documentary The World is Bright.
The film features a Chinese couple’s search for the truth behind their son’s suicide in Canada and touches on immigration and mental health issues.
CMWAC has moved many events online via Zoom during the COVID-19 pandemic, but Ahalay Chin, founder and chair of CMWAC, decided to return to the “old-school way” by holding the film watch party offline.
“Many vulnerable members of our society feel isolated and lonely after being stuck at home for several months. I think it’s time to reconnect and empower each other,” said Chin.
“We are trying to find new ways to reconnect with people by learning how to watch movies together while maintaining social-distancing rules.”
Only 50 people can be accommodated this time due to space limitations and restrictions from the provincial health officer.
Hand sanitizing stations and masks will be provided to people at the entrance.
Chin said they are hoping to hold other similar events in the upcoming months for those who can’t join this time.
The documentary watch parties will be held on Aug. 29 and Sept. 5 at 1 p.m. at #3105-8888 Odlin Cres. in Richmond. For more information, click here.
