Ep 7. The Blessing

The Blessing, which is the seventh episode of the seventh season of America ReFramed, is an insightful and moving documentary that explores the lives of five Native American teenagers as they undergo a traditional coming-of-age ritual known as the "Blessing Way."

The film takes place on the Navajo Nation reservation in Arizona, where modern life collides with ancient traditions, and the young people struggle to find their place in a culture that is both complex and deeply meaningful. Through interviews with the teens and their families, as well as footage of the Blessing Way ceremony itself, the viewer is taken on a journey of discovery that is both powerful and inspiring.

The Blessing Way is a ritual that dates back thousands of years and is designed to help young people make the transition from childhood to adulthood. It involves a complex series of prayers, songs, and symbolic acts that are intended to help the teen understand their place in the world and their responsibilities to their community.

As the teenagers prepare for the Blessing Way, they must confront a range of challenges, including peer pressure, family expectations, and the pressures of modern life. Some of the teens struggle with drug and alcohol abuse, while others are dealing with the fallout from family members who have committed suicide. Throughout it all, however, they remain determined to complete the ritual and emerge as strong, confident young adults.

One of the most striking aspects of The Blessing is the way in which it highlights the connection between culture, tradition, and resilience. The Navajo Nation has long been subjected to hardship and discrimination, from forced relocation to the reservation system to the long-term effects of uranium mining. Amidst all of this, however, the Navajo people have managed to hold onto their language, their spirituality, and their sense of community.

By exploring the Blessing Way ceremony in such depth, the film showcases the ways in which this tradition continues to play a vital role in the lives of Navajo young people, helping them to connect with their heritage and find meaning in the midst of chaos. Moreover, it shows the way in which this ancient ritual can serve as a powerful form of resistance against assimilation and oppression, allowing young people to reclaim their identities and assert their place in the world.

Overall, The Blessing is a beautifully crafted film that provides an intimate look into the lives of Navajo teenagers and the deep cultural traditions that shape their worldviews. Director Hunter Robert Baker and Jordan Fein have managed to create a work of art that is both respectful and empowering, showcasing the power of ceremony and community to overcome even the toughest challenges. Whether you are a student of Native American studies, a lover of documentary filmmaking, or simply someone who is looking for a deeper understanding of the human experience, this film is not to be missed.