Good Films. Do Good.
our vision
To influence positive behavioral change by sharing environmental and social justice films that inspire and engage neighbors to become global citizens.
our mission
Providing a platform through film and visual arts that creates community awareness and discussion about justice issues that matter.
Our Story
Founded in 2005 as the Marda Loop Justice Film Festival, we began as a small community event held at River Park Church and the downtown Public Library. Over time, we grew into a city-wide festival, expanding to include additional venues such as the Globe Cinema, the Plaza Theatre, and The Confluence. Alongside our annual festival, we also launched justREEL, a year-round film series that continues to engage audiences throughout the year.
As our audience and influence expanded, we changed our name in 2021 to the Calgary Justice Film Festival (CJFF) to better reflect our broader reach. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021, we adapted by offering virtual screenings. In 2022, we returned to presenting a three-day in-person festival. Thanks to the ongoing support of our community and supporters, we have proudly offered free admission throughout our 18-year history.
Each year, our documentaries are selected from over 500 submissions from more than 100 countries. Screenings are followed by engaging discussions featuring either the filmmaker or experts on the film’s subject matter. These conversations are inclusive, thought-provoking, and often spark meaningful dialogue among attendees.
As part of the festival, we also host a two-day Peace Market. This event provides a space for nonprofit organizations working in human rights, environmental protection, social equality, support for newcomers, and other justice-focused causes to share their missions and connect with the public.
The United Nations 17 Sustainable Development Goals
The Calgary Justice Film Festival uses the UN’s 17 Sustainable Development Goals as a blueprint for film programming. All films screened must align with at least one goal.
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership. They recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies that improve health and education, reduce inequality, and spur economic growth – all while tackling climate change and working to preserve our oceans and forests.