Oas-City: 17th Annual Urban Issues Film Festival

17th Urban Issues Film Festival

Our vision is to educate and inspire people to promote cities Where every person finds their place in a thriving, inclusive environment that reimagines community, connection and sustainability.

Imagine a city as an oasis—a lush, thriving spot of life and hope in the middle of an otherwise harsh environment. Just as an oasis brings life to the barren desert, a well-planned, inclusive city can be a sanctuary where every person finds their place, their community, and their sense of belonging. Cities have the potential to be more than just places to live; they can be havens of connection, support, and thriving opportunities.

The Oasis as a Symbol: An oasis is not only a source of physical nourishment but also represents emotional and psychological refuge. It is a symbol of hope and life, offering safety and relief from challenging surroundings. Similarly, cities can act as sanctuaries, providing more than just infrastructure—they can become places where people find a sense of community, where they are seen, supported, and connected to others. The oasis metaphor encapsulates this ideal—a fertile ground for human connection amidst the busyness of modern life.

Reimagining Community: For cities to become urban oases, we must reimagine our public spaces and social systems. Thriving, inclusive cities prioritize diversity, equity, and belonging. They are designed with spaces that encourage human interaction—parks, public squares, and community hubs where people can gather, share experiences, and build relationships. Inclusivity means creating environments where all people, regardless of background, can flourish. This involves promoting diverse housing options, accessible public services, and safe spaces that foster belonging and connection.

Practical Steps to Build "Oases" in Cities: Transforming cities into true urban oases requires deliberate action. Green spaces such as parks and community gardens serve as respites from the urban jungle, offering both physical and mental relief. Similarly, community hubs—libraries, cultural centers, and co-working spaces—become the heart of connection and engagement. Policies that support social equity, such as affordable housing initiatives, food security, accessible public transportation, and inclusive zoning laws, ensure that no one is left behind in this vision of an inclusive city.

As we think about our own cities, let’s reflect on how we can contribute to building a more inclusive and thriving environment. Each of us can play a part in shaping a city that feels like an oasis—a place of refuge, connection, and growth for everyone.

Mission

Our mission is to spotlight the dynamic stories, diverse perspectives, and pressing challenges of urban life through the art of cinema. We strive to create a platform where communities can converge, along with fostering dialogue. Through thought-provoking films and engaging experiences, we aim to inspire solutions, amplify voices, and drive positive change in our urban landscapes.

• Doors open at 5:30
• Free admission!
• Free pizza!
• Refreshments!

• Free parking!
• Building 356, Room 109
• Park in parking lot N

Link to VIU parking lot map:

VIU Parking Map - New Building Numbers

Host or Publisher VIU 342: Urban and Regional Planning