Description of the eight-part mini-documentary web series called “DOWN” —
For Black people in Canada, underrepresentation in society is commonplace, which is a reality experienced with deeper complexity in the Black disability community, particularly among caregivers. Ugandan-born filmmaker Moses Latigo Odida, whose three-year-old was born with Down Syndrome, wants to confront negative attitudes and practices that ostracize Canada’s Black caregivers. ‘Down’ is a mini-documentary series featuring unique stories of Black caregivers and expert interviews that highlight challenges unique to caregivers in one of Canada’s systemically underrepresented populations. The series title ‘Down’ is a homonym that hints at Black caregivers feeling emotionally ‘down’ because of the challenges they face, while remaining ‘down.’ f
Episode Description – DOWN: DOWN
Although experts agree that mental illness is at a crisis level within Canada’s Black community, this is a reality that is under-acknowledged. Black caregivers are directly impacted by this situation, as their responsibilities are often undertaken in isolation. Clinically depressed filmmaker Moses Latigo Odida is determined to be a healthy father to his daughter who was born with Down Syndrome, and looks to his Black community to support. Through interviews with caregivers and experts, this episode highlights the role community can play in supporting Black caregivers living with mental illness while providing care to their loved ones. A call to collective action is emphasized, rather than facing these challenges in isolation.
The eight episodes of DOWN are found at https://storiesforcaregivers.com
DOWN Series producer – Moses Latigo Odida. Principal Kigaana Productions
Ugandan-born filmmaker Moses Latigo Odida, whose three-year-old was born with Down Syndrome, wants to confront negative attitudes and practices that ostracize Canada’s Black caregivers. In 2023, he travelled across Canada to document stories of Black Canadians caring for loved ones with disabilities, and who understand the value of mental health. He documented this journey in a mini-series called “DOWN.” Moses is a graduate of the Master of Arts program in International Relations.
