Some of the most memorable scenes in the beautifully shot Honour Your Word show the pristine traditional territory of the Algonquins of Barriere Lake. But images of children paddling boats and learning how to fish are contrasted with unforgettable scenes like a woman walking in front of a line of policemen in riot gear during a blockade, or a road lined with logged trees.

The land has long been a source of conflict, stemming from a trilateral agreement with the federal and Quebec governments to protect and sustainably develop the area, which the Algonquins say is not being honoured.

In Martha Stiegman’s documentary, community members explain some of the reasons behind their persistent struggle to protect this traditional territory. In honest and sometimes emotional interviews, they talk about their connection to the land, their culture, and to the still thriving Algonquin language.

“I don’t want to be rich in money, I want to be rich in my culture; my language,” says one woman.

While some clips show the frontline protests orchestrated by community members to defend their land, much of the film is effectively spent illustrating why the nation is so protective of its picturesque territory.

Vancity Theatre, May 5 (12:30 p.m.)