Understanding COVID and my Alutiiq Heritage by James

This video delves into the Alutiiq heritage and rural life on Kodiak Island, highlighting the community’s efforts to support its people during the COVID-19 pandemic. The video showcases the resilience and resourcefulness of the Kodiak community as they navigate challenges while preserving cultural traditions. It also acknowledges the trauma endured by their ancestors during previous epidemics, emphasizing how historical experiences strengthen their commitment to communal care and cultural preservation in the face of current challenges.

This film was produced by a Kodiak 9th grader during a “Kodiak COVID-19 and Culture” film workshop in partnership with Bitanga Productions and the Kodiak History Museum. Generous funding for this workshop was provided by the Alaska Community Foundation Social Justice Fund and the Charlotte Martin Foundation.

Workshop Info

The Kodiak COVID-19 and Culture Film Workshop, held in partnership with Bitanga Productions and the Kodiak History Museum, provided participants with the opportunity to explore the impact of the pandemic on local culture through filmmaking. Generously funded by the Alaska Community Foundation Social Justice Fund and the Charlotte Martin Foundation, this workshop enabled participants to document and reflect on their experiences and stories, preserving a unique moment in Kodiak's history.

More videos from this workshop:

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Land Acknowledgement

This video was filmed on Alutiiq (Sugpiaq) Land. Learn more about land acknowledgements at native-land.ca.