In a lot of ways, Citizen Minutes continues to be a fascinating project. Now in its third season, Minutescontinues to bring together short stories of changemakers who are working hard to make a difference in their communities. Each brief tale sets their sights on individuals who see the world with eyes of focus and determination. Whether it’s working passionately to ensure that Toronto is more wheelchair accessible or attempting to build bridges across the political aisle, each film creates space for hope on a wide range of scales.

In particular, conversations surrounding mental health seems to be a priority in this season. From Josée Gallant-Gordon’s equine therapy centre to Manuel’s support for New Canadian males, Citizen’s third volume highlights the importance of caring for people through times of difficulty and transition. (Even Crossing the Divide emphasizes the value of listening and creating safe spaces for conversation when we struggle to see things from the same perspective.)

Even so, Minutes has always had an emphasis on justice and the new series is no different, especially through education and awareness. Red Girl Rising gives voice to the Indigenous community as Joyce Jonathan Crone fights tirelessly for acknowledgement. By following the journey of artist Ruby Chopstix, Minutes celebrates their journey towards greater tolerance and support of drag culture. And, of course, A Stop Gap Measure highlights the right for accessibility.

Although every story differs in style and tone, the come together cohesively in such a way as to create something special. Holding stories like these up against one another feel like pieces of a greater puzzle. Together, they highlight the need for change on all levels, beginning with a conversation and ending with practical reform.

Citizen Minutes is available at HotDocs ’25. For more information, click here.