For Indigenous Peoples, running has been a form of prayer, communication, ceremony, and survival. Among the Diné, a young woman’s coming of age begins with a run to the east to meet the rising sun—a ritual of strength, identity, and connection.
Alexandria Staten grew up feeling distant from her roots on the Navajo Nation. Now, as her grandmother—the keeper of her family’s traditions—grows older, Alexandria feels an urgency to reconnect. Through running, she seeks more than physical endurance; she’s searching for belonging, knowledge, and to run in ceremony as a Diné woman.
Guided by her matriarch, Alexandria begins a journey to reclaim her culture and carry it forward. Each step becomes an act of remembrance and renewal, forging a deeper bond with her family, her community, and herself—learning, ultimately, to run in beauty.
Watch Trailer Here.
Through On’s support, Rising Hearts is able to support Alex in her running journey to find that deeper connection to her culture and Indigeneity.
#RunInBeauty #RunningOnNativeLands #Kinship
Running as A PLATFORM FOR awareness + ACTION
Amplify + Support:
For every story we help to uplift, we uplift the call for support of heart working organizations, individuals, and/or groups that community can learn more about and support. Take this opportunity to learn more about the organizations and communities Alex has identified and we ask that you consider making a donation to support their heart work.
+ Native Women Running: www.nativewomenrunning.com
+ Rising Hearts: www.risinghearts.org
+ Washoe Tribe of NV and CA: https://washoetribe.us/
+ Nisenan Tribe - Nevada City Rancheria Restoration: https://nevadacityrancheria.org/
WATCH RUN IN BEAUTY: ALEX
PUBLIC SCREENINGS:
Washington DC | TBD
Harrisonburg VA | TBD
Charlottesville VA | TBD
Nashville TN | TBD
Film Festivals Submitted:
1.) Indie Short Film Festival
2.) Trail Running Film Festival
3.) Kendal Mountain
4.) Mountain Film Festival