What does it mean to be connected? The 2026 Vision Maker Film Festival explores this question through its year long theme, “Everything is Connected,” featuring documentaries, narrative films, and shorts produced and funded by Vision Maker Media. Films screen in-person at UNL’s The Ross Theater and online at Vision Maker Media’s website.
On May 11, “In the Wake of Justice Delayed” screens at The Ross. This film follows an Alaska Native family fighting for justice after a loved one is murdered, examining systemic inequities that erode community trust, suppress crime reporting, and fuel cycles of violence.
For free tickets, visit theross.org/events/native-american-film-series. Three films are available online in May: “Fire Tender” follows a grandmother and knowledge keeper (Yurok) working to restore traditional fire practices, illuminating the deep connection between people and land. “Stroke: The Circle of Healing” chronicles a stroke survivor’s recovery as he blends Western medicine with traditional Native American healing. “Scha’nexw Elhtal’nexw Salmon People: Preserving a Way of Life” follows two families (Lummi) confronting climate change and a depleting fishery in a story of resilience, gratitude, and cultural identity.
To stream the festival, visit visionmakermedia.org/vision-maker-film-festival-everything-is-connected-may-streaming.
Vision Maker Media’s iNative Shorts for Kids YouTube channel is a resource for children, parents, and educators exploring Native heritage and history. May episodes conclude the “Urban Migration” theme and the challenges facing Urban Indians with clips from “Looking Toward Home.”
Explore the series at youtube.com/@iNativeShortsforKids.