Indigenous Cultures Collection
CEM has been producing films with indigenous voices, perspectives, stories,
ceremonies and cosmologies since our founding in 1983. In this collection of programs, you can take different journeys to hear the voices and teachings of indigenous leaders from Standing Rock to the Amazon, to Greenland to the Aboriginal cave paintings and the story of the Dreamtime.
ceremonies and cosmologies since our founding in 1983. In this collection of programs, you can take different journeys to hear the voices and teachings of indigenous leaders from Standing Rock to the Amazon, to Greenland to the Aboriginal cave paintings and the story of the Dreamtime.
Stories to Remember
From different cultures come stories that connect us, not just with others, but with that which gives our lives meaning. This unique program brings together two guests that use the power of story and storytelling as a means of remembering. The world is full of wise stories – we just need to listen.
Earth Wisdom for a World in Crisis
With the dramatic increase in global warming, the United Nations has realized that native peoples may possess some critical keys to the very survival of our species. This program talks to a range of renowned indigenous leaders and tells a story of the non-violent resistance at Standing Rock.
Dreams, Visions & Realities
For thousands of years, people of every tradition have embarked on long and difficult journeys to sacred places in search of various benefits. This program sheds light on various dimensions of this timeless ritual.
The Shaman the Spirit Healer & the Earth
Flordemayo, a Mayan spirit healer, and Angaangaq, an Eskimo-Kalaalit Shaman from Greenland share their ancient wisdom and knowledge about man’s relationship to nature, as well as the profoundly sacred nature of all life — including sacred healing practices from the world of spirits, animals and plants.
Zen and the Art of African Initiation
Joan Halifax, Buddhist teacher, author and abbot of Upaya Zen Monastery in Santa Fe, talks about initiation with African shaman, healer and diviner, Malidoma Some. Malidoma suggests that people in the West suffer from “sickness of the soul.” In this program, we discover the secrets of an African initiation and the power of Buddhist vows with two people who walk between the worlds of East and West, of Magic and Meditation.
Music, Sound & the Sacred
Experience the power of liturgical musical performances in Latin from Grace Cathedral in San Francisco (where the Rev. Jones serves as Dean) and witness powerful, live studio performances by Joanne Shenandoah and her daughter. This episode also includes a hauntingly moving sequence from Peter Brook’s film, Meetings with Remarkable Men.
Art & the Creative Spirit
What makes art sacred? Does the creative spirit lie within the artist, or is it channeled through the artist from a higher power? This episode of Global Spirit seeks answers to these questions by looking at various sacred art forms, and by engaging with artists keenly aware of the spiritual aspect of the creative process.
Healing, Family & Community
African healer Sobonfu Some meets author and medical doctor Rachel Naomi Remen to discuss topics such as the ways in which emotions cause illness, and how broken families can heal with the help of community.
John Collier Jr: A Visual Journey
For thousands of years, people of every tradition have embarked on long and difficult journeys to sacred places in search of various benefits. This program sheds light on various dimensions of this timeless ritual.