About the Films

Belmont Grove: Reclaiming Coaquannock
by Ollin Yoliztli Calmecac and Scribe’s Precious Places Community History Project
This film tells the story of how Belmont Plateau served as a powerful gathering space for Philadelphia's indigenous communities for over a decade and the impact the loss of that space had. Voices from these communities share their histories and give testimony to the importance of having an indigenous gathering space to convene, celebrate and pass on traditions. (USA, 2016, Documentary, 15:00 min)

Bangkukuk
dir. Aleks Martray
The indigenous Rama people of Nicaragua's Atlantic Coast speak out against an interoceanic canal which threatens their ancestral land and way of life. (Nicaragua/USA, 2015, 10:00 min)
 

Featuring a Special Presentation of documentaries made by Maya youth, and produced by Unlocking Silent Histories, In collaboration with Maya Traditions: 

Fighting Women
written, directed, filmed, and edited by Chema
An Unlocking Silent Histories Production. In collaboration with Maya Traditions.
This film examines the lives of women in San Juan la Laguna, including the various types of work they conduct, within and outside of the home. The film includes themes of gender equality and messages of empowerment for women from the voices of local women themselves. (Guatemala, 2013,11:56 min) 

The Temascal
written, directed, filmed, and edited by Norma
An Unlocking Silent Histories Production. In collaboration with Maya Traditions.
This film presents the traditional use of the temascal as a means of cleansing oneself, preventing illness, and in ritual ceremony. It explains the use and function of temescales, with a focus on their medicinal purposes and importance. (Guatemala, 2013, 10:49 min)  

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Street Movies! is made possible with support from PECO and National Recreation Foundation and with additional support from the City of Philadelphia's Performances in Public Spaces program managed by the Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy.