Without Precedent: The Supreme Life of Rosalie Abella

Description

the film is a compelling and intimate portrait of the woman often referred to as “Canada’s Ruth Bader Ginsburg”, a tireless champion for the neglected and underserved, and the daughter of Holocaust survivors who gave her the confidence to be fearless. Her story is told through archival footage and interviews with luminaries, including Margaret Atwood and former Canadian prime ministers.

“’Without Precedent’ explores the life and career of the woman who earned the respect of a nation,” says Gregory von Hausch, President and CEO of FLIFF. “The charming, witty, and full of good humor, Rosalie Abella and Avrick’s intimate approach makes this film a piece of enjoyable entertainment.”

Abella was born in 1946 in Stuttgart, Germany, in a displaced person’s camp. In 1950 her family immigrated to Canada and her personal history influenced her legacy. She studied law in Toronto and at the age of 29 the expectant mother became the youngest judge in the history of Canada when appointed to Ontario Family Court in 1976. In 2004, she became the country’s first female, Jewish judge to sit on the Supreme Court.

A trailblazer and advocate of human rights, Abella’s vision shaped the way Canada would handle equal rights. She believed that if you want equality, you must acknowledge and accommodate everyone’s differences. Her vision for an “inclusive, diverse, and equitable” Canada still resonates today.

Justice Abella will join guests Monday, Nov. 6 at a 6:45 p.m. reception, prior to the 7:30pm screening of the film followed by an audience Q&A.