“Everything is Connected” is the guiding theme of Vision Maker Media’s (visionmakermedia.org) year-long film festival, capturing what has defined Indigenous storytelling for generations: the enduring relationships between land, sky, environment, and people. The festival, presented in-person and online, marks VMM’s 50th year as the premier source of film by and about Native Americans.
On April 13, VMM presents “Scha’nexw Elhtal’nexw Salmon People: Preserving a Way of Life” at The Ross Theater. The film follows two Lummi families confronting the effects of climate change and a depleting fishery, telling a compelling story of resilience, gratitude, and a lifeway dedicated to the salmon.
The online festival offers films illustrating different types of connections, centered on the experiences of Indigenous women. The offerings include “Kanenon:we – Original Seeds,” which follows three women reclaiming their ancient roles as seed keepers, returning heirloom seeds to Tribes for use by future generations. “Redbird” follows four generations of Cherokee women navigating grief after losing a family member.
For free tickets, visit theross.org. To view the online festival, visit visionmakermedia.org/vision-maker-film-festival-everything-is-connected-april-streaming.
Children, families, and educators can explore Native history through VMM’s iNative Shorts for Kids YouTube channel. April’s episodes examine the impact of the Indian Relocation Act using clips from “Urban Rez” and “Looking Toward Home.” The episodes explore the unique experiences of Urban Indians.
Explore the series at youtube.com/@iNativeShortsforKids.