About this project

THE PROJECT The Sunrise People is a 30-minute documentary that tells the story of the Atakapa-Ishak through the eyes of the Philippe family. The film tracks Rosina Philippe's exploration of the importance of place with regard to her culture, as well as the devastating effects of the BP oil disaster and the history of oil extraction in the Gulf Coast, which is threatening the environment and the survival of her people and culture.

THE BACKGROUND The Deepwater Horizon explosion on April 20, 2010, and the ensuing oil disaster in the Gulf, resulted in the devastation of the ecosystem and financial ruin for thousands of fishermen and shrimpers. Many still reap the horrendous consequences of the largest oil disaster the United States has ever faced. However, a group of indigenous people has been suffering for decades from the ramifications of our addiction to oil.

I chose to make this film, because my time in the Gulf shortly after the BP oil disaster was a life-changing experience for me. I had no idea about the struggles that indigenous people from this region struggle with. However, through my friendship with the Philippe family, I have the great opportunity to help them tell their story, which needs to be heard. Through compelling images and intimate stories, I will bring awareness to the viewer about a unique culture and way of life that is threatened and without protection or support from the federal government. My hope is to tell the story through their voice and to change the disregard for indigenous cultures and the environment in the name of profit.

Through widespread web-distribution, local screenings, and possible showings on public television stations, I hope to reach a very large audience with this project. I view The Sunrise People as an opportunity to bring awareness to this topic before their way of life completely disappears.

HOW YOUR SUPPORT WILL HELP The budget includes travel costs for myself and my crew (assistant camera and sound) to get to Louisiana, as well as travel costs while filming in the region. The Atakapa-Ishak live outside of the levee system in stilt houses in the middle of the wetlands; therefore, guides and boat captains are required to travel through this region. Some of our needs while filming in the Gulf include rental car costs and lodging.

In addition, to achieve a high production quality for public broadcasting, there are post-production costs, such as music, narration, color correction, and sound mixing costs, as well as fees for film festivals and DVD printing.