Agua es vida.
Water is life.
Arcee Chapa
In a new documentary, award-winning filmmaker and manager of multimedia services at the Center for Area Studies at the University of New Mexico, Arcy Chapa examines the lifeblood of communities in northern New Mexico. Acequias – a living legacyThe film, announced by UNM’s Center for Area Studies in partnership with the National Hispanic Cultural Center, will premiere at NHCC on Saturday, January 28.
The event kicks off with an hors d’oeuvre reception at 6:00 PM, followed by a movie preview at 7:00 PM and a panel discussion at 8:00 PM. The event is free. For tickets, register here.
“Stories of New Mexico Acequia Ever since I moved to New Mexico in 1998, I’ve always wanted to make this film. Over 700 of this historic water distribution system Acequia It was watering and nourishing the arid landscape of New Mexico,” said Chapa. Originally from Chicago, her family hails from Chihuahua, Mexico, which has its own Acequia her system. “I used to swim a lot during the summer when I was a child.”
With the life-giving waters flowing and sparkling in the channels and the landscape of New Mexico glowing, this beautiful documentary tells the story of the enchanted land’s permanence. Acequia Seen through the eyes of farmers, advocates, scholars, practitioners, and members Acequia community. Chapa produced and directed an emotional and reverent tribute Acequia past, present and future.
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Chapa has over 30 years of experience in broadcast journalism, holding positions as an anchor, reporter, news director and senior producer of documentary films. She was the host and executive producer of New Mexico PBS’s weekly public relations show. in focusand KUNM call-in showShe has won the prestigious National Press Club Award for her environmental investigative reporting and five Emmy Awards for her documentary filmmaking. A sample of her films include her trilogy of Emmy-nominated films that commemorate UNM’s colorful history and important commemorative milestones. Zimmerman@75, UNM@125 When Popjoy@50.
chapa pointed out Acequia Unique to New Mexico.
“No other state in this country has what we have. We tend to take for granted what we’ve seen all along, Acequia The system should not be like that. ”
In the dry, where every drop of water is studied and traced, Acequia Provides recharge to the groundwater system as water seeps into the earth below the stream. For over 400 years, Acequia It continues to be used and remains important in understanding the history of New Mexico.
Funded by UNM’s Center for Regional Studies, the film sets a historical backdrop and unfolds through a series of stories. AcequiaCurrent challenges such as climate change and the transfer of water rights, their important role in the development of the local food pantry, and the economic opportunities offered to members of rural communities.
“New Mexico Acequia story teeth A story of New Mexico history. They go hand in hand,” Chapa said. “Some say extinction is inevitable due to climate change and development pressures. Others believe there is still time to protect them for future generations. And I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people who spoke so passionately about the dream of the Acequia community in New Mexico.New Mexico’s beautiful, lush valleys and cultural traditions Acequia”
Chapa hopes that all who love our beautiful state will have the opportunity to see the film. am. I hope that through this film, people can gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the state of New Mexico. Acequia.
