Buffy Sainte-Marie is getting a TIFF Tribute Award at the 47th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival. The Oscar-winning Indigenous Canadian-American musician will be honored with the Jeff Skoll Award in Impact Media, which “recognizes leadership in creating a union between social impact and cinema,” per the fest.
A doc about Sainte-Marie helmed by Madison Thomas is making its world premiere at TIFF this year. Titled “Buffy Sainte-Marie: Carry It On,” the film focuses on the life, music, and activism of the “Universal Soldier” singer. It is one of our most anticipated titles screening at the fest.
“Buffy Sainte-Marie has been challenging and changing the world for 60 years,” said Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF. “Her groundbreaking music, her lifelong activism on behalf of Indigenous people, and her passion for teaching have transformed countless hearts and minds. She is a singular icon and we are thrilled to be honoring her with the Jeff Skoll Award in Impact Media.”
Previous recipients of the award include “Kanehsatake: 270 Years of Resistance” helmer Alanis Obomsawin and “Monsoon Wedding” director Mira Nair.
Sainte-Marie will receive her honor at the TIFF Tribute Awards, set to take place September 11. Other awardees this year include “Everything Everywhere All At Once” star Michelle Yeoh, Icelandic composer Hildur Guðnadóttir, and “The Swimmers” writer-director Sally El Hosaini.
