As we have been documenting over the last few days, this past weekend was a busy one in Greensboro. Above, you see the lobby of the Greensboro Historical Museum after the screening of the documentary made by Montagnard high school students whose families arrived as refugees and immigrants. These new Americans have become historians and filmakers in a project that will be archived at the Smithonian. The above crowd includes not only Montagnard families but also community members who know and care about the stories of this group of people from the Central Highlands of Vietnam.
Long before the film project began, Betty Stratford was busy tutoring English Language Learners at Mendenhall Middle School. In collaboration with Lie Rlayang, Betty designed a series of cloth panels telling the story of Lie's journey to America. The scene below is one of Montagnard children learning about life in America through TV- specifically cartoons and sit-coms. Betty was not in attendance on Saturday, as she is not well; however, her husband, students and artwork were there to represent her dedication to Greensboro's immigrant children. Today is ABC Wednesday and C is for "children." If you get a chance, be sure to watch, The Young Mountaineers: An Untold Story of Montagnard Youth in Greensboro.
that's really neat!
Posted by: Tbreese823 | Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at 09:27 AM
I assume you have to rent the film from the library. Too bad it's not available online. Perhaps the Smithsonian will do that.
Posted by: Jane T. Mitchell | Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at 09:42 AM
Jane: The film is only ten minutes. It shouldn't involve any renting. It will be made available digitally by the Smithsonian, for sure. If I find it, I'll let you know.
Posted by: Janis & David | Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at 10:03 AM
That is a very cool thing--would love to see the video too.
Ann
Posted by: [email protected] | Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at 11:00 AM
Capturing a bit of important history!
ROG, ABCW
Posted by: Roger Green | Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at 01:42 PM
Excellent post! Have a great week!
Wil, ABCW Team.
Posted by: Reader Wil | Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at 01:57 PM
Very cool project.
I think it is awesome that the Smithsonian will be archiving it.
Posted by: photowannabe | Wednesday, January 29, 2014 at 03:59 PM