This documentary helped remind me of the core human need for all of us to relate, belong to, and identify with community. In a time of globalization and instant mass communication, it is easy for people of any age to feel a sense of 'losing their way' and/or their connection to their cultural family. Just as people seek out DNA kits to gain insight into 'who they are,' a sense of one's own history and the direct ties to those who came before us provides a framework for positive self understanding and a sense belonging.
This important work profiles the efforts of one Native American community to keep their language and traditions alive through connecting the remaining elders who still speak the native language and can pass on their traditions to the young.
As a 'Caucasian American" who knows little (more like nothing) of her own heritage, I felt the value of the efforts of this community are nothing less than heroic, and I was left feeling only hope and optimism that their efforts will not be in vain.
The benefits of retaining culture and identity are universal, and this film does a beautiful job of profiling the sensitive souls that care enough about their community and heritage to put forth great effort in preserving it for the direct benefit of not only their own young people, but as an example for communities and cultures anywhere. .
