Members of Samson Cree Nation are mourning the death of filmmaker Georgina Lightning, who has died at the age of 63. Lightning’s daughter Crystle, one of the co-creators of the hit musical Bear Grease, shared the news on Facebook. “I have lost my mother, my sons Kohkum, my matriarch, my role model, my confidant,” Crystle posted. Georgina Lightning was best known for writing, directing, producing and starring in the 2008 feature Older Than America, which was inspired in part by her family’s residential and boarding school experiences. Other screen credits include Johnny Greyeyes, DreamKeeper, Blackstone, Trickster, Three Pines and Alaska Daily. Lightning died following an incident during an Indian relay event at Enoch Cree Nation, which remains under investigation. Enoch Cree First Nation posted its condolence on social media. “Enoch Cree Nation is mourning the loss of a community member following an incident at this evening’s Indian Relay event at the Enoch Rodeo Grounds,” it said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones during this difficult time. “Out of respect for the family and all those affected, we ask that the public refrain from sharing videos, photos, or speculation related to the incident on social media.” Among those mourning Lightning’s death Sunday was model Ashley Callingbull. “This is so heartbreaking. She has done so much for the Indigenous community, her family and has even played a role in my life,” Callingbull posted. “She built such a legacy and opened the door for so many people. My heart hurts for Crystle and the entire Lightning family.”
