Watch Unseen Tears: The Native American Boarding School Experience in Western New York

Unseen Tears: The Native American Boarding School Experience in Western New York is a powerful and emotional documentary that sheds light on the history and impact of Native American boarding schools in the United States. The film examines the experiences of Native American children who were forcibly taken from their families and sent to boarding schools in order to assimilate them into American culture.

The film is set in Western New York, where the majority of the boarding schools were located. It features interviews with Native American elders, educators, and community leaders, as well as archival footage and photographs from the boarding schools themselves.

Through these interviews and visuals, the film explores the trauma and abuse suffered by many Native American children at these schools, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, and emotional abuse. It also delves into the larger context of Euro-American colonization and the government policies that led to the creation of these schools.

One of the most powerful aspects of Unseen Tears is its focus on the enduring legacy of this history. The film demonstrates how these boarding schools continue to impact Native American communities today, particularly in terms of intergenerational trauma and loss of culture and language.

Despite the heavy subject matter, Unseen Tears is ultimately a hopeful film. The resilience and strength of Native American communities is shown throughout, as well as their dedication to healing and reclaiming their culture and traditions.

Overall, Unseen Tears: The Native American Boarding School Experience in Western New York is a deeply moving and important documentary that sheds light on a little-known aspect of American history. It honors the experiences of boarding school survivors, acknowledges the ongoing impact of this history, and serves as a call to action for all of us to work towards healing and justice.