With this documentary, I realized how this topic is relevant in Canada in present times. It widens the horizons of how people think about the subject. All change starts with us. This is why, in my opinion, it is very important for children to realize from an early age on, the importance of being respectful to transgender individuals.
-
Nature Dazzles brought awareness to gender diversity which is very important because people should be able to choose for themselves and to be accepted no matter what their gender or sexuality. In school and when you're young, it is the best time to figure out who you really are. If kids are taught when they are young about gender equality and diversity, they are more likely to embrace who they are and to accept others for who they are.
- Elorah Bennett, age 13
I believe that on the subject of gender there is much to be discussed. However, what the documentary Nature Dazzles shows us is that, sometimes, however questionable it may be, the results are what matter most. We could have extensive discussions about the nature of gender, whether or not we can be male and female at the same time, for example. What can not be refuted is that, if more schools in the world took the example of Gender Splendour, more children would grow up in freedom.
My children participated in the filming of Nature Dazzles and the experience was hugely transformative for them. I highly recommend this
film as a tool to transform hearts and minds. Through the incredibly
poignant and powerful voices of children, this film supports kids who in their own words, share their experiences of gender stereotypes and the pain of being forced into a gender binary. Kids are honored in their experience, and supported to deconstruct the impact of gender roles in their lives. They are given space, community and voice to celebrate gender diversity and empower the message of creativity, inclusion, diversity and self-awareness. This film is such a deeply important teaching tool for opening the hearts and minds of parents, teachers, children and communities throughout the world. Please come see it, spread the word, and help our kids be seen, supported, celebrated and heard!
- Marnie Wohl-Bennett, Parent, The Grove Community School
Nature Dazzles provides powerful testimony that if we teach our children early about gender and equality, we have the potential of developing more inclusive, welcoming and empathic communities. This film and its contents are long overdue. So many people who see this film, including young people, will feel—finally—like they can just be who they are psychologically. -- Camilo Gomez has crafted a starkly honest documentary film that breaks down entrenched barriers of patriarchy, gender, sex and sexism. Magnificent!
-
Nature Dazzles is so full of authentic voices and poetic artistry it bears several viewings. Congratulations to Ryerson's documentary studies department and Camilo Gomez in particular for surmounting the hurdles in creating this gem.
- jme/parent
It was a pleasure to watch Nature Dazzles. For some, this documentary may convey a controversial subject. However, it opens a discussion that must continue to happen. The documentary expresses clarity and honesty. It provides an intimate look into a community of children who incarnate alternative gender expressions along with the pride of whom they are. Their families, teachers and friends' support gave them a moving for all voice.
The subject of gender tackled by children, could extend a link that facilitates an integration of cultures for better global understandings.
-
I have shared "Nature Dazzles" with my local PFLAG chapter, teachers at my child's school and in a local community meeting. It is wonderful and the 'Gender Splendour' program is incredible - a difficult sell in some parts of the world (ex. rural Ohio). We watched it as a family and Maya was spellbound. It was AFTER watching your film that they requested the pronoun change. Your work made a difference! Hearing from children directly - miraculous. Thank you so much!