Homegrown: Documentary Shorts Collection

Follow filmmaker Brian Muna as he seeks to reconnect with CHamoru, the language native to the people of Guam and elders in his family. In his search for identity, he examines his culturally American upbringing and the importance of passing on the CHamoru language and traditions to his sons. As he meets with language advocates and youth in Guam, he wonders, is there hope for future generations?

Follow the transformation of the waterways of Puʻuloa, the area now known as Pearl Harbor on Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, from a vibrant hub of abundance to a polluted industrial zone. Told through the voices of Hawaiian farmers, fishermen, and activists, the film reveals the impacts of militarization and environmental degradation on this historic land and its waters.

Examine the state of public schools in the U.S. Virgin Islands 7 years after back-to-back Category 5 Hurricanes Maria and Irma made landfall. Through interviews with local officials, educators, and students, the film outlines the daily challenges and crumbling infrastructure that students and educators face while billions of dollars in federal aid to rebuild remains out of reach.

Explore the debate around the unique legal status of American Samoa, a U.S. territory whose residents are not U.S. citizens, and as a result, retain Indigenous ownership over their land. Two American Samoans share their opposing viewpoints: a traditional chief who wants to maintain the status quo and a U.S. Marine veteran who believes in the right to citizenship for his people.

“Aloha” is a way of life for Native Hawaiians, who are taught from a young age to treat people with kindness and compassion. This film asks the question, How do Native Hawaiians in the diaspora keep the feeling of Aloha in their hearts, even when they live thousands of miles away?

“Aloha” is a way of life for Native Hawaiians, who are taught from a young age to treat people with kindness and compassion. This film asks the question, How do Native Hawaiians in the diaspora keep the feeling of Aloha in their hearts, even when they live thousands of miles away?