Educational Media Reviews Online

Paty’s Journey is the intimate portrait of one indigenous woman activist from Mexico, Patricia “Paty” Moreno Salas, as she travels the country in support of María de Jesús “Marichuy” Patricio Martínez, a Nahua woman campaigning in the 2018 Mexican presidential election. With profound empathy, in addition to stunning cinematography and sound work, Santiago Pedroche immerses the viewer in Paty’s world of extreme tensions. Paty’s own childhood was filled with violence and abandonment and today she regularly experiences sexism on the road; contrasted with the gentleness of her attentive husband Rubén, who empowers her to follow her own advocacy journey away from home while he cares for their children.

In this beautiful depiction of contemporary Wixárika life, Pedroche expertly displays the delicate blending of Wixárika tradition and Mexican influences. The wisdom of intergenerational indigenous planting and gathering practices stand in contrast with the painfully complex decisions facing young people, including Paty as a mother to young children, leaving their community to seek out education in order to return home to defend their way of life. This film is highly recommended for Indigenous Studies and Latin American Studies, as well as Gender and Political Sciences Courses. Film studies courses will also benefit from inclusion of this compelling film, which features both excellent camera and sound work, showcasing the rich landscape and culture of Paty’s home.

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