Long Line of Ladies
22 mn
Long Line of Ladies is a stigma-breaking, female-directed short documentary that gives viewers a glimpse into the story of the Karuk tribe of Northern California. It takes a significant step forward, normalizing period conversations by highlighting a culture that celebrates and uplifts its young women when they come of age.
“Long Line of Ladies” is a 22-minute Op-Doc film that touches on themes of adulthood, community, family and tradition. It brings audiences into the world of Ahtyirahm “Ahty” Allen, a 13-year-old member of Northern California’s Karuk tribe, as she anticipates her “Ihuk” or Flower Dance — a once-dormant coming-of-age ceremony that takes place after young women in her community have their first period. This beautifully captured film takes us on a journey of tradition and self-discovery, allowing us to peek behind the curtain of a ceremony in the Karuk tribe that was nearly lost until its revival in the 1990s.
Synopsis
Director: Shaandiin Tome & Rayka Zehtabchi