Ep 7. Up Heartbreak Hill

In POV season 25 episode 7, titled "Up Heartbreak Hill," viewers are taken on a journey to a small town called Navajo, New Mexico. The focus of the episode is on three high school students - Thomas, Tamara, and Gabby - who are preparing to graduate and move on to the next chapter of their lives. However, they are also facing a number of challenges unique to their Navajo background.

Thomas is a talented cross-country runner who dreams of attending a university out of state, but must reconcile this dream with his duty to carry on his family's traditions as a Navajo medicine man. Tamara is an aspiring photographer who is torn between her passion for art and her commitment to her family and tribe. Gabby is a straight-A student who wants to be the first in her family to attend college, but faces obstacles due to her mother's ongoing battle with alcoholism.

As the three students navigate their final months of high school, they also prepare for the annual Navajo Nation Fair, a cultural celebration that showcases traditional Navajo activities such as sheep herding, weaving, and fry bread making. They also participate in a summer program called "Gallup Native Scholars," which provides academic support, mentorship, and leadership development to Native American students like themselves.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given a unique glimpse into the daily lives and struggles of Navajo teenagers, as well as the rich traditions and community that surround them. The students themselves are determined and passionate, but also vulnerable and relatable as they grapple with complex issues such as identity, family, and the future.

"Up Heartbreak Hill" is a thoughtful and intimate portrait of a vibrant and enduring culture, and a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in Native American history, culture, and current issues, as well as for those who simply want to be inspired by the stories of remarkable young people.