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Film screening on traditional Chamorro healing this Saturday
Tricia A. Lizama
The public is cordially invited to a screening of a new documentary film on traditional Chamorro healing by Dr. Tricia A. Lizama this Saturday, May 7, in Room D-1 at Northern Marianas College. The screening starts at 6pm.
Dr. Lizama’s film, “Åmot Para I Hinemlo’ta,” will explore Chamorro traditional medicine and healing in the Northern Mariana Islands, a cultural practice that dates back thousands of years.
Åmot is often used by the people of the Marianas to refer to medicine or an herb but it has a different meaning when used as a verb. Para I Hinemlo’ta means “for recovery and restoration of our health.”
The film examines the current state of this ancient cultural practice through interviews with knowledgeable practitioners on Saipan, Rota, and Tinian including the similarities and differences among the islands.
The film also explores the challenges confronting the perpetuation of traditional healing and how it can be reinvigorated and perpetuated for the continuing benefit of the indigenous community.
Lizama, an assistant professor in the School of Nursing and Social Work at the University of Guam, is a descendant of a traditional healer and a mother of six who has spent the past five years researching this subject.
She is also the chair of Inetnon Yo’amte, an organization whose mission is to preserve, protect and perpetuate traditional Chamorro healing.
The film was funded in part by a grant from the Northern Marianas Humanities Council. The screening is open to the public and free of charge.
For more information, please contact Humanities Council staff at 235-4875.
