This documentary that explores the life of Emiliana Aguilar, a Maya Quiché woman from Santa Cruz del Quiché, Guatemala who arrived to Oregon in 2002 due to health problems that were the consequence of living and growing up in Guatemala during the war (1960-1996). This film explores the motives behind her arrival, her childhood experience marked by the civil war, and preserving and transmitting her language and cultural traditions, all which have been shaped by her strong Maya identity.
Don Misael Rojas is originally from Veracruz, Mexico. His story focuses on his relationship with his mother and the themes of equality and social justice. While in Mexico he participated in several social justice movements and has continued to participate in activism while in Oregon. He is a member of PCUN, and plays a vital role in the Wage Theft campaign.
As an undergrad student studying Ethnic Studies, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to be a part of such a special project that highlighted the history of Latinos in Oregon. It has been an amazing experience learning about Oregon’s history and connecting with Izza Porter who emigrated with her family from Monterrey to Oregon. I’m excited to use the skills that I learned while making this documentary later in my life.