A monumental first, an Indigenous surf film is emerging from the water. The official trailer for “Haagua,” an Indigenous surf film, is out now, and the entire film will premier at the end of summer. The film depicts the delicate re-introduction of our Indigenous species back into the coastal ecosystem and a reckoning with humanity. A major disturbance interrupted nature’s law along the shores of the West Coast of California, Mexico and beyond more than 400 years ago. A chain reaction ensued which forever changed our coastlines, seascapes, practices, and Indigenous life. However, a new wave is upon us. Allowed the space to not just survive, but to thrive, Indigenous life reflects nature’s law and rebounds.
The film “Haagua” stars Jacinda S. Townsend (Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians) and Shuuluk Leo-Retz (Viejas Band Kumeyaay Indians). Shuuluk alsoco-wrote pieces of the film, alongside Marc Antony Chavez (Nahua-Xicano) and Erika Archaga. The short film is produced by One World Bridge and Minimal Films. Chavez is the film’s co-director. He is also the founder and director of Native Like Water, a local non-profit which has been serving the community, especially the youth, of San Diego County and beyond for more than 23 years.
“Haagua” depicts the timeless connection between Grandmother Ocean and her children, speaking from the past and praying into the future. Birthed and sprung from water, a timeless memory of survival thrusts us forward to a current time, a time to thrive along the coast. More than a sport, surfing is a recognition of cultural practice and a re-creation of an original lifestyle. This re-generation is seen in the film’s featured surfers—Andy Nieblas (Acjachemen)David Flores Ramos (Nahua), Kaliko Kahoonei (Hawaiian), Amon B. Chavez(Nahua-Carib), Reg Macarro (Payomkawichum-Ojibawe) and Marc Chavez (Nahua).
“Haagua”will be featured in film festivals world-wide through 2024 and into 2025. The film will be followed up with an e-book and curriculum. For more info on sponsorships and film festival screenings, go to www.NativeLikeWater.org and follow on socials@nativelikewater.
