At See Stories, we believe in the power of storytelling to preserve culture, spark conversations, and inspire change. This fall, we launched Movie Monday, a weekly showcase of student- and educator-produced films from our workshops across Alaska. Each film tells a unique story—shedding light on history, cultural traditions, and pressing social issues. Here’s a look at some of the incredible stories we’ve featured so far.

Honoring History: The Tlingit Code Talkers

Our first Movie Monday spotlighted a film about the Tlingit Code Talkers of Hoonah, whose role in World War II was long hidden from history. These servicemen used their Indigenous language to transmit secure communications, yet their contributions remained classified for decades. By sharing their story, we honor their legacy and reflect on the importance of preserving oral histories and connecting with elders to keep these stories alive.

Watch The Tlingit Code Talkers here.

Shedding Light on Youth Homelessness: Overlooked by Mika Matysczak

The following week, we highlighted Overlooked, a film created by our intern Mika during a workshop at the Kachemak Bay Family Planning Clinic Rec Room. The film takes a raw and personal look at youth homelessness in Homer, a topic often left in the shadows. Mika’s storytelling ignites important conversations about how we can better support homeless teens and drive community change. Watch Overlooked here. 

Preserving Cultural Traditions: Manaq in Akiak by Sonya Jackson and Subsistence, Our Way of Life by Alberta Demantle

From history and advocacy, we shifted to stories of cultural preservation. Sonya, a 5th-grade student from Akiak, shared her film on Manaq, the Yup’ik practice of fishing, highlighting its deep-rooted significance in Alaska Native traditions. Similarly, educator Alberta Demantle’s film, Subsistence, Our Way of Life, explores the evolving role of subsistence practices in Western Alaska. Both films invite us to consider how traditional ways of life can coexist with modern challenges and how we can ensure these skills are passed down to future generations. Watch Manaq by Sonya here and Subsistence, Our Way of Life here. 

Craftsmanship and Cultural Identity: Nasqurrun: Headdress by Monica Friday

Another remarkable film by Chevak educator Monica Friday, Nasqurrun: Headdress, delves into the artistry and meaning of traditional Yup’ik headdresses. Through interviews with elders, the film reveals the intricate craftsmanship and cultural significance of these adornments, emphasizing the importance of preserving Indigenous knowledge and traditions.

Watch Naqurrun: Headdress here. 

The Power of Music and Dance: Stebbins Yup’ik Beats

Most recently, we featured Stebbins Yup’ik Beats, a film by educator Bjorn Paje, which showcases the role of Yup’ik songs and dance in preserving cultural heritage. With insights from village elders and newcomers alike, the film celebrates the power of music to bring people together, honor personal achievements, and reflect the deep connection between the Yup’ik people and their environment. Watch Stebbins Yup’ik Beats here. 

Join the Conversation

Each of these films is more than just a story—they are invitations to engage, reflect, and take action. We encourage you to watch, share, and discuss these films with your communities. What connections do you see between these stories and your own experiences? How can we continue to uplift and preserve these vital narratives?

Watch the full series here and and follow @seestoriesalaska on Facebook and Instagram to join the conversation. There are so many amazing student and teacher-produced films and stories waiting to be featured here! Gunalchéesh, Quyana, and thank you for being part of this journey with us!