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Tell us what you think.
Selected submissions will be posted here, so check back regularly.
7/10/07
Nai Saetern Nixon
Oakland and Stockton, Cal
Thanks for being the voice I could not speak. I am also the daughter of a Shaman. However,
I live my Christian lifestyle. I do not think its unorthodox for you to partcipate in a
spiritual ceremony, considering that he is your father. Who is to judge with sin and be
the first to cast a stone? My heart goes out to you with pride and dignity. My father was
diagnosed with Schizophrenia a few years ago and people talk like there's no tomorrow.
Talk about ignorance. However, Im not afraid of where he is going. He has dedicated his
ties to GOD and opened his heart to the Lord. And the Lord will lead him. I know that he
will be happy soon. I appreciate all that you have done to make this a posibility for our
Mien community. I am however distraught that I am not able to speak fluently in the
language that I was born to know. But I will not forget it. Our children will speak it.
God bless!
David Schleg
Dallas, Texas
I have a question; I'm wondering if there is an organization where people can donate money
or needed
items to the Mien families in Thailand (and elsewhere)?
<< Many people have asked how to help. Read the filmmaker's reply below.
>>
First, thanks for your heartfelt and insightful comments! Fahm and I greatly appreciate
them.
1) Yes, we have set up a fund to help the Mien villages in Thailand. It's called the Mien
Village
Project, and is being administered by the Give2Asia foundation of San Francisco. For more
information about the fund, visit their Web site.
2) Fahm is not a practicing Christian, so performing the ceremony was appropriate. She
is, after
all, the daughter of a shaman.
3) Low Linh was convicted of the murder of Fahm's sister and has spent 16 years in prison.
His
parole hearing, however, is coming up later this year, and the family will make their
second trip to
San Luis Obispo to testify against his release.
— Richard Hall, director/writer, DEATH OF A SHAMAN
2/7/07
Lucy Saephan
Oakland, California
Four years have passed since Death of the Shaman came out. I still think about it all the
time.
Famh's film inspires me to want more out of life. Thank you for responding to my email and
giving
your words of encouragement. And thank you for taking the first steps in representing the
Mien
people through the story of your family.Mien youth across the U.S. struggle with our Mien
and
American identities. But you give confidence to be proud of being both Mien and
American.Your
success is our success. You are truly a great role model that we all look up to. Best of
luck in
your future.
5/17/06
NY NY
Fahm your journey and narration moved me to tears. Your documentary revealed deep richness
and
humanity in your heritage. It was like an exoneration. Your journey is a gift to all of
us. I cried
for your parents's suffering, and for the hugeness of the gulf between a community where a
person
like your father would be valued and vital, to one that would discard that personal and
communal
wisdom and history with such tragic foolishness. Becoming a Christian must have seemed
like the only
way at the time, to be part of a community? Fahm, I was brought up Christian as well, and
I cried
for what they asked of your father, and what he did. A terrible crisis, a moment of
wrenching
violence, which somehow you have shown so clearly. It is wonderful that you were able to
perform a
ceremony for your father, and your documentary of it is a kind of new ceremony for our
western
culture. You found your father in your culture of origin and through this film you have
found him in
this one as well. You have restored him- given him such dignity, so eloquently, on a very
wide
scale. Perhaps you are a shaman for both societies. I know I feel restored by experiencing
your
story. I just want to salute you, your clear eyes and strong heart. Thank you for telling
that
story.
2/15/06
karen saechao
Sacramento, Ca
I've seen this documentary for quite a while now and it's always touching especially to
the Iu-Mien
communtiy because it may also relate with ones life. Great job on this movie. Hope you and
your
family's are doing good. :]
8/15/05
hello friends
through this "Death of A Shaman," from the Independent Lens section, I could have more
interests in
related history. However, I have a simple question about the term the "Mien."
I've heard that Hmong people are known as "Meo." In history, is the Mien different tribe
from the
Meo?
7/8/05
Andy Billing
England
Having watched this documentary after getting to know Nai I also, like many here, felt
compelled to
come and comment on this extremely moving piece of work.
Though I can't even come close to understanding the hardships and struggles, I do feel I
would not
be able to say this if it were not for the fantastic job done in the making of Death of a
Shaman.
Courage!
5/23/05
M.S.
I was flipping channels when I came across Death of a Shaman. I was initially intrigued
because of
the references to Sacramento, which is near where I live. But within minutes, I was
captivated by
your story. Having parents that immigrated to the States, I could identify with your
struggles
regarding race, religion, and social-economic issues.
Thank you for your honesty in making this documentary. It could not have been easy to do
such an
expose on one's life, especially one filled with so many adversities.
I wonder if you could update us with how your family in Thailand is doing. Have you been
able to
visit again? Have your family members been able to return?
Please get the local stations to air this again - or let me know how I can get a tape. I
think this
would be a wonderful program to send to my family members.
God bless you!
5/18/05
Rebecca
Citrus Heights, California
I just finished watching the documentary DEATH OF A SHAMAN and felt compelled to write and
express
my gratitude. I was overcome with emotion several times during the program.Although I am
Caucasian,
a nurse, and a native of Los Angeles, California, I was captivated by the honesty and
humbleness in
this story. Thank you for enlightening me with a glimpse into the life of this wonderful
family and
her ancestors.
5/16/05
Chris Canelo
Sacramento, CA
I have always had a great respect for those that came here from S.E. Asia after the war. I
was truly
humbled by the hardship of your family, both here and there. I hope this program will
bring healing,
peace and understanding to the Mihn community, and help those of us (including 1st
generation Mihn)
to appreciate the sacrafice your elders made for this country before they even came here.
Thank you.
1/28/05
Miss Saechao
Richmond, CA
This documentary was awesome. I can truely relate. It brought me to tears watching it.. I
was so
amazed that another Mien family actually went through what I've gone through like having
opium
addicted parents/granparents and getting put permanently in foster care (all 9 of us).
Your story
have had a big impact on my life and I thank you. Keep up the wonderful work.
1/12/05
LR
Los Angeles
What a beautiful family and insightful film. Fahm's spirit, compassion and great dignity
has lessons
for considering the unknowns in what came before us and the strides of our parents. This
film is a
great accomplishment and honors the mystery and nature of heritage. Thank you for sharing
your
story.
1/10/05
Los Angeles,CA
you touched souls. so many families in america can relate to you and your family. you
where never
alone. you have the proudest father in the world. i just finished watching and i want to
know, what
happend with your blind cousin? are your other cousins still in school? they all looked
very cute in
their uniforms :) god bless you, much love to your family.
11/16/04
David Saechao
Chico, CA
First of all, on behalf of the Mien-American community, this film is a monumental
accomplishment. So
long have we waited for someone to tell the story of our people's assimilation in the
United States.
Although the film revolves around the Saeyang family, anyone one of us can surely relate.
Great Job!
10/6/04
LUZ ADRIANA
NEW YORK
Hi! I am 20 years old and I was really touched by the movie. I saw it in my Intercultural
Communications class. I am really glad that my professor introduced the movie to us...Most
of the
girls cried, especially when the girl returns to her homeland. I can relate to her in the
relationship with her father because I believe that when you are raised in the U.S, it's
really hard
to understand you parents values, attitudes and beliefs. This film help a lot to
comprehend my
parents and my lovely culture which is Colombia.
6/7/04
San Diego, CA
It was late in the evening and I was just about to go to bed, when my husband clicked over
to KPBS.
I've always enjoyed watching documetaries, and as I watched "Death of a Shaman," I was
completely
encapsulated. My parent's too are first generation to migrate to the U.S. When I watched
your
father, his looks resembled so much of my father..tired, weary, and still in hope of a
lost dream.
My father is still alive, fighting cancer. After watching your film it has inspired me to
share it
with my colleagues (Asian-Americans) and now my sister who is a teacher is trying to
obtain a copy
to show her students.
I know your father is very proud of your and the completion of his story.
6/7/04
Vista, CA
What a beautiful and thought provoking film, I commend your courage in opening up your
heart and
soul to the world. Many of the comments in this Talkback Section reflect most of what I
would say so
I'll not repeat them.
The one area I'll address is the mis-guided support of the Christian Community. I know
they meant
well and had your fathers well being at heart but I also think they "got in the way" of
his
beautiful soul and spirit.
I am a Christian, I believe in the power that can come from a personal relationship with
our Lord.
I also believe that all men were created by our God and that diversity was part of that
creation.
Your father could have found peace in the merging of both cultures had he been allowed to
do so.
I'm so sorry that was not your experience and hope that you know all Christians would not
follow
that path. I wish I could have known your father,my heart hurts when I think of his pain,
but I
believe we have an omnipotent heavenly father who see beyond and knows the intent of your
fathers
heart. Whether by Shamanism or Christianity, your father is in his Hands and I do believe
they are
wise, loving, all-knowing hands.
Thank you again for sharing your story, there are many lessons to be learned but I truly
hope there
is a segment of the Christian (Religious) Community that will take to heart the necessity
of
respecting the dignity of those we are attempting to help.
6/5/04
Yonny
mn.
I love this film! I emailed Fahm,and she responded the next day-Thanks Fahm! I know how
much work
goes into video production,and i only do a fraction the studio work they did on this
film-Great job
to all the technicians too-Yonny
6/4/04
T. Saelee
Camas, Washington
PBS finally aired last night here in Southwest Washington. It brought tears to my eyes
because it
reminded me of my aunts and uncles now currently living in Laos. Time and time again they
sent over
audio cassettes asking for help but because of my situation I was and am uable to help
them out.
Everyday I lived in guilt and fear, afraid that by the time I'm able to help, it may be
too
late.
Because of your story, I am currently in the process of making audio tapes and gathering
donations
from family and relatives to send to them. Thank you.
Thank you so much for such an intriguing and heartfelt story- will no doubt be felt by
many of us
who left our former place and make America our adopted home.
One thing that kept coming to my mind during the show was how quickly we forget where we
came from
and that many of the younger generations will never know.
6/4/04
Eloise Ly Chen
Beaverton, Oregon
Dear Fahm,
You have no idea what impact you have made on me and the future mien generations to come.
I want to
thank you for sharing your life experience and the Mien culture with the world. My parents
and I
watched the video and loved it.
I felt empowered from hearing you tell your story and it has encouraged me to dig deeper
into my
roots to explore my background. I was born here in Portland, Oregon in 1979, and have not
yet
returned to my homeland. I really want the chance to go back, but I do not know anyone in
Thailand
or Laos. I feel as if I have become so Americanized that I have sheltered my identity as a
Mien.
Rediscovering myself as a Mien.
- Ly Yoon Saechin
6/4/04
Txia
La Crosse, WI
Thank you PBS, others, and Fahm for sharing with us your journey. I can relate to the
difficulties
which you have faced in America because I am Hmong myself and my father and relatives were
one of
the millions of people who were involved in the secret war. Coming to America and losing
hope in
themselves and their children to American culture has been very hard on all of us but it
is you who
give us hope for the future of our families and our American neighbors to better
understand. I am
honored that you shared your story w/ us. It is better than any Hollywood movie could ever
be.
6/4/04
Shesh Reddy
I saw this show while flipping thru channels. It is a shame what happened. Your show
brought tears
and I can't stop thinking about the hardship you went thru to find your roots and bring
peace to
your Father. I am sure he is very proud of you. I wish PBS would air it again to tell my
friends.
Take care
6/2/04
krystal nguyen
Richboro, PA
Dear Fahm,
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us. You are very strong
and you will be successful in America--a dream that your father
desperately hoped for himself.
Our family came to America in 1980 from Vietnam--only my father and five
of us children, the youngest 18mo old. My father was a math and physics
professor in vietnam, but in order to support us, he worked hard for many
years doing hard-labored jobs. We, like your family went through many
hardships, hardships too many to put into words, but clearly you have
captured through your documentary film. My father past away almost three
years ago and i miss him alot. Both of our fathers sacrificed alot to
bring us to America. Because of them, our lives and our children's lives
will be better. Don't forget the past because you can learn much from it,
but look on to a bright future and be proud of yourself--that yes, though
it all you have made it through okay in the end! Please email me if you
need a friend to chat with.
best wishes,
krystal
6/1/04
Lisa Saeyang Nelson
Brentwood, CA
I am the daughter of Meuy Fong Saeyang. I would like to thank everyone for
taking the time to view the documentary and also leave words of
encouragement for us. Feel free to email me at ms_moo@moocow.com with
positive attitudes and I will try to respond in a timely manner.
In response to David Schleg, Dallas, TX:
It is much appreciated by us all that you have such a big heart to desire
a change for the people of Thailand. There is a funding organization named
Give2Asia. Please visit their website for more information.
In response to S. Saephan, Oakland, CA:
I can understand your feelings of offensiveness due to this documentary
and it not being what you had expected. However, Fahm's father was a born
Shaman and maintained that status for most of his lifetime. I hope you can
understand how it would feel for a large number of your own people to come
to you and tell you to convert to save yourself from the trials of this
world. It is a tough situation, and he did what he thought was best, but
in his heart, he was happiest as a shaman and that is why our people so
willingly welcomed his spirit into the ritual for the dead. I do not find
it in the least unorthodox.
In response to Anonymous, Sacramento, CA:
The person who murdered my mother is currently doing time in Southern
California. He had a sentence of 16 years to life, which are past due
time. I continue to face him in the battle against his release on parole.
6/1/04
Oyster Bay, New York
Flipping through the channels last night I happend uppon "DEATH OF A
SHAMAN". I was instantly drawn into Fahm Fong Saeyang's heartbreaking
story of her family's struggle to make a new life for themselves in
America. She has shown us a side of the "American Dream" that many people
could never imagine. I am so sorry that your father and your people have
not found America a more welcoming or hopeful place. What a difference it
might have made if your father's culture had been valued by the people he
met in this country. I thank you for sharing your story and your culture
with me and I know your father would be very, very proud of you.
6/1/04
Leighton
NYC, NY
I could not change the channel as tears streamed down my face.
What a beautiful story that has moved me to email this and make sure the
team that created this piece knows how much I appreciated this story and
how much passion it filled me with.
It truly is a shame how a diverse and beautiful culture often times can't
"fit in" with our American ways...sometimes beauty and tradition gets
pushed aside for "progress" and "success".
In my opinion the most success an individual can achieve is the love of a
family.
Thank you Fahm and team for sharing this beautiful story, thank you very
much.
6/1/04
Mitch Butler
From the beginning of this film, I thought the filmmaker was taking
herself far too seriously, that the opening was poorly structured and the
video was poorly shot and edited haphazardly. I kept watching only
because I don't have cable TV.
Soon I was crying my eyes out. I continued crying throughout the film.
I completely fell in love with Fahm, her need for self discovery and her
complete emotional honesty.
Now it stays with me, I can't get it out of my head.
6/1/04
Jose (Joe) Colon
New York, NY
I thought this documentary was moving. The suffering that occurs when
people are disconnected with their heritage is painful and the choices
that one has to make in order to seek a better life for themselves and
mostly their children is heart breaking. The faces of the families left
behind reminded me of my aunts and uncles, it was uncanny. What I
especially found interesting was the Shaman aspects to the story. In my
culture there is also an aspect of ancestry mysticisim, the belief that we
can still connect with those who have passed on into another life. I
believe it's the primal need for continuity that drives these beliefs and
it was sad to see the histories of ancestors burned, shameful. When we
will learn to honor othere beliefs that are unlike our own? To me that is
the worst kind of ignorance. Thank you for having the courage to bring
this story to the world.
6/1/04
James Zaworski
Carbondale, Illinois
I was very moved by the program "Death of a Shaman". As a student of
anthropology, and as a second generation American, I understand some of
the intricacies and complexities surrounding culture change, and the
social changes that occur when populations of a given people move to a new
culture and society.
Fahm Fong Saeyang, I salute your efforts in finding out your roots, your
culture, and in having the courage to travel back to your ancestral
village. I further salute your courage in making your personal journey a
public one. I further praise your efforts in helping out your extended
family financially.
One of the biggest tragedies that occured was the forced conversion of
your father to Christianity, and the burning of the sacred shamanic texts.
Again, I thought this was a wonderful documentary film that told a great
personal and cultural story.
Thank you for sharing your story.
6/1/04
Luu Le
Antioch, CA
Hi Fahm,
I'm a Vietnamese, one of the boat people.
During the Vietnam War, I was a navy officer on the south side (American
side) for six years (1969-1975). When the war was ended, I was in the
labor camp for six years (1975-1981).
After arriving in America (August 1982), I have struggled for living and
schooling through two community colleges and three universities for 18
years (1983-2001). Finally, I graduated at the same your school, San
Francisco State University, in Electrical Engineering in 2001 at the age
of 54.
We are very lucky in America where we have the opportunity to pursue our
goals, as long as we have a goal.
I'm very proud of you, and so is your father.
6/1/04
Josh
Philadelphia PA
The film is wonderful. I felt Fahms every emotion watching her go through
her journey. After seeing her family in Thailand and thinking about Fahms
future here I want to say, God Bless America. Good Luck to you and your
family Fahm.
6/1/04
Pheth Phornsavanh
Stockton,CA
Wow,what a documentary. I applaud Fahm's courage of visiting her
homeland. Being from Laos myself, I understand why it's hard to go
back.Everyone is poor over there so you want to give but you can only do
and give so much.Then you have to leave.
It was clear to me that Fahm's father was very frustrated for what he
felt was the lack of respect and exceptance that he experienced in the
U.S.Yoon was the one that people looked to for answers when they could not
find one.
Not to take away from the hardships that Fahm's and her family has
endured but her story has been a similar tale of many South East Asian
immigrants.That's why I felt that this progarm was so good.It depicted a
very acurate account of the typical immigrant family from SE Asia having
to cope with a new way of life. The parents knew only of their culture but
Fahm and her siblings had to try and fit in with the American culture as
well.Because of the differences, they clashed.
This program has really made me want seek for my uncle in Laos.He is not Mien but Khmu,
another
closely related tribe in the hills of Laos.
Good for you Fahm for your college degree, and thanks for the
enlightment.
6/1/04
A. Saechao
Sacramento,CA
Fahm's film the Death of Shaman is a moving film. I share my tears as I
finished watching the film. I saw how poor the Iu-mien is and how humble
the Mienh is, yet, a daughter of the immigrant came to raise up in America
. An Immigrant without a country stuggle to the top. I understand . Your
tears is my tears. Friend.
6/1/04
Kristen Schmitt
Austin, TX
Your story moved me. It is one of the better produced and thought
provoking documentaries I have watched in a long time.
Your father would be VERY proud.
Best,
Kristen (a freelance PBS producer)
6/1/04
Brett Schechter
Austin, TX
Gripping, eloquent, heartfelt. Struck an emotional cord with me, perhaps
because of my imminent marriage to a young woman from Isan, the
Southeastern region of Thailand near the Laotian border. It was
masterfully produced, and I thank Fahm so much for sharing her travails.
Last night I went to my best friend's, son's graduation from high
school. They had an alumnus come up and speak about his life, and he
recanted the loss of his son. He mentioned this emotional valley led him
to new heights. He overcame, and thanked God for the time he had with his
son. Seems apropos for Fahm, and for the young lady I will strive to help
here in America.
I worry about losing her innocence in America, her ability to sustain and
maintain the Thai traditions that I have grown to love. Although I live in
a progressive Texas City, this is still Texas. She is a brave woman to
come here, to escape the poverty and helplessness that permeate her
village. Many girls there wind up in Bangkok and Phuket go-go bars,
actually driven there by their families. The men live on Mekong Whiskey, and seem
destined for
little more. BUT, there is still a sense of happiness. Makes
me think my palatial life might not be the panacea I once thought.
Fahm, I might not be making any sense of this note. But, people of every
ethnicity can identify with your father, with your repatriation, and the
amazing strength you have shown. Well done, and thank you.
6/1/04
Javier
Chandler, AZ
A very moving and genuine documentary. It makes those of us who come from humble
beginnings
appreciate what we have and what others have sacrificed for us. I cried tears of joy and
sadness
during this show and wish Fahm much happiness. It was just a beautiful journey, thank you
for
sharing it with us.
6/1/04
Phoenix, AZ
I am 1st generation American born Chinese and this story has touched my
heart more than I thought it would. I was completely touched and shared
tears throughout the documentary with Fahm. Her story has made me think of my parents and
their
hardships they had in China and then moving to
America. This reminded me to be more appreciative of them each day for
what they have accomplished for me and my sisters to live in a country of
blessings.
I commend and applaud Fahm for fulfilling her father's desires and dreams
and how proud he must be! Thank you for sharing this story with us! God
Bless
6/1/04
audrey judy
such a moving documentary. i can totally empathize with everything yoon
encountered in the united states. he truly loved his family and his
homeland - fahm was chosen to culminate his quest to earn respect and
closure in his lifequest. my opinion is this was one of the best i've seen!
6/1/04
Eric schueler
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Outstanding documentary!
I worked with the Mien in Thailand's Chaing Kham refugee camp from
1991-1993. There I ran an opium detoxification center which the film drew
me back to.. Especially many of the Mien patients, who taught me many
things about life such as dignity, sensitivity and honor despite the pain
of addiction. Fong's childhood friend's parents knew that too.
One of our patients a Mien widow diagnosed with terminal breast cancer,
used our program to free herself from opium addiction. Her struggle
against addiction was done so that her two daughters could immigrate to
America even though suffering from terminal cancer pain would have made
her opium smoking a palliative remedy, I was reluctant to treat her for
that reason, but she insisted. So I helped her to detox from opium and got
UNHCR to help her and her daughters gain immigration to America.
I was told soon after she arrived in America she died. Her struggle for
her daughter's future in America was what she left behind. Seeing the film made me wonder
what
happened to those girls.? The last
letter she wrote to me ended like this " Sorry I have no prize for you.
But what ever missing pieces there are in your life please try to fill in
by yourself."
I am still working on the missing pieces as I believe her daughters are
too. Fong has found by some of the missing pieces by making this film,
and by returning to Thailand to reunite with her family and culture.
Sincerely yours,
Eric Schueler
6/1/04
David Davis
Humble
Hello I was very moved bye the picture I would like to know how I can
help.I travel the world on ships and I see so many things.Thank u !
6/1/04
Ted Baker
Honolulu, HI
Although I, too, missed the beginning of the program, once started I could
not turn away. It was deeply moving and I'm not ashamed to say I shed
more than a few tears.
I'm no expert, but I have spent some time hiking in the remote villages
of groups in northen Vietnam, Thailand, and Burma known variously in as
"ethnic minorities," "hill tribes," "montagnards," etc. The attraction
for me is the tight bond within and between extended families and how they
are grounded in their spirituality, their culture, and their relationship
to the land.
As I see it, Yoon's fall was due to the precipitous change in the context
of his life. While he and the family may, literally, physically, have
been saved by relocating to the US, the move destroyed the context which
gave meaning to his role as father, shaman, etc. All of the signposts by
which he could navigate through life were missing. In the US, he was just
another immigrant with no pertinent language or job skills to support his
family.
Part of why I was so moved by the documentary is that, as a generic, mostly
European-descended person, I suffer from that same loss of context,
although mine occurred over many generations. Add to that the fact that
my mom is adopted and I was raised in a family that really had little
contact with extended family, I really don't have a distinct, traditional
a sense of who I am other than a late baby-boomer American.
Although I have lived in Hawaii for 20 years, and San Francisco for three
years before that, I have returned regularly to my native New England. I
love visiting but I really do feel much more comfortable in the diverse
culture here. As difficult are the circumstances in which Fahm's Thailand
family lives, I "envy" the sense of belonging she felt there. And, as
much as she may be better off materially in the US, her family in Thailand
is rich in ways I have never known. Perhaps that's why I keep going back
myself.
I take plenty of pictures of my children and I love going over them years
later. The picture of Fahm as a child must have been very moving for her to see. I
shuddered at the
destruction of Yoon's books and papers required by those who converted him to
Christianity. Altho' I
am not a Christian, I felt
guilty for the Western conceit/arrogance that required him to destroy a
manifestation of who he was just so he could become one of "them." I was
relieved when Fahm found her father's journals. I hope she will treasure
and protect them always.
I also hope that Fahm will keep returning to Thailand, if not often, then
at least regularly.
For those who have not already done so, you may want to read Anne
Fadiman's book "The Spirt Catches You and You Fall Down". It tells the
story of the clash of Hmong culture and American medicine that either
killed a Hmong family's youngest child, or released her from the torments
inflicted by "modern" society, depending on your point of view.
Aloha.
5/28/04
Duong
Honolulu, Hawaii
Hi, I'm an immigrant from Vietnam. I watched your documentary with my father. Needless to
say, we
were both crying throughout the whole thing. We were touched by how accurately you
captured the
hardships of immigrants assimilating in America, as well as the challenges of
understanding our
heirtage. You guys did a wonderful job!!!!
5/28/04
David Schleg
Dallas, Texas
Ms. Fahm Saeyang,
You and your production team have produced a wonderful documentary.
I have a question; I'm wondering if there is an organization where people
can donate money or needed items to the Mien families in Thailand (and
elsewhere)?
As I watched the program, I wondered about my own ancestors who came to
America and took equal risks. What were their experiences like? What
cultural traditions did they loose?
Although I am culturally caucasian and my skin color is white, I am sure
my ancestors also struggled to make the U.S home for their family over 100
years ago. Bias against newly-arrived foreigners was as common then as
now.
Sadly, being 4 generations removed from these ancestors, I do not know
the answers to these questions. I sincerely hope Fahm Saeyang will see
this documentary as a wonderful gift to record her family's amazing
journey, especially given her father's many videos (which Fahm
acknowledged as a great gift), something I can never do myself.
You are an amazing woman, Fahm. I am honored to have watched your very personal
documentary. Thank
you for sharing. Please let me know if there is a way to contribute to the needs of the
Mien
families.
Warm regards,
Dave
5/28/04
Don Crago
When Fahm realized her gifts of clothing weren't appropriate for her
realtives......I thought of when, in 1968, I had my wife send me a
complete set of photographs of the insides of our apartment in
USA......The Thai-villagers I knew and loved were puzzled and just
couldn't comprehend our 'things', such as stove, toilet, shower.
I wanted to just tuck those folks under my wing and try to protect them.
Fahm has had an interesting and futile journey...she must feel somewhat
satisfied, but more helpless.
5/28/04
Ron Ruggieri
Providence, Rhode Island
I am not a sucker for tear jerkers but " Death of a Shaman " was the most
moving documentary I have seen in years. But I did not see it from the
beginning. Hope the TV documentary is shown again in the near future. This
documentary really deserves an award, recognition.
The soul is a terrible thing to lose especially when you possess a
great one, a good and sensitive soul.
The shaman's daughter has penetrated the heart of our very different
culture with her beautiful English.
My grandparents on my father's side were Italian immigrants. A
cult classic novel " Christ in Concrete " expresses their struggle to
survive, the contempt of the already assimilated, the everyday rejection
and exploitation,the challenge of learning English, of keeping their
Catholic faith in a cold, indifferent environment.
There must be a way to become AMERICANIZED without destroying your
native soul.
I will never forget the Laotian Shaman - and his loving daughter
5/28/04
Tulsa, OK
I was moved by this account of a journey made to discover the meaning of a
parent's life. Although my own cultural background is Hispanic, I
identified with Yoon's sorrow at the loss of her father; and the loss of
his hope and self respect. It seems to me the first generation to make the
effort to be assimilated into the "melting pot" suffers the most in this
respect; as the very characteristics that identify the individuals are not
valued/understood in the "American" culture. My own efforts to function
within the "anglo" culture have been a struggle more often then not,
simply because of the values I learned from my Hispanic family. I know
unless I make the same type of "journey" to understand my parents I will
not be able move forward.
5/28/04
Rand
Congratulations on creating a program that was informative and moving. No
doubt, you will touch many lives through your documentary and I think
we'll all be a bit more reflective of our own lives after having learned
about yours.
I hope you'll consider another project that perhaps may focus on your
relatives in Thailand.
I see the link which reads "Get the video" but I hope you will have the
program available also on DVD format.
Best wishes.
5/28/04
Rancho Cordova, CA
While a memorial to US soldiers from World War II will soon be dedicated
in Washington DC, I wonder how many years it will be before a US memorial
of similar honor will be built in memory of the many Mien, Hmong, and
other Southeast Asian men and women who likewise sacrificed not only their
lives, but transformed their future generations of families for our
American ideals?
5/28/04
Rachel Zacapa
Mountain View, California
Returning to the land where my parents immigrated from (the Philippines)
and seeing a very small glimpse of the environment they grew up in, made
me appreciate them so much more.
The experience helped me to understand how much they sacrificed, and
realize the hardship they came out of, and the boldness in which they set
out to create a better life for their children. It also helped me
understand the cultural and generational dilemmas between the Philippines
my parents were raised from and the America I was raised from.
How has the experience shaped me? As an adult, I am left with a sense of
sadness for my parents high hopes and dreams that I cannot fulfill, the
constant sense of guilt because I am removed from my parents culture yet
am expected to adhere to their traditions and cultural expectations. I
feel so separate but long to connect with and understand them.
For now, I hang on the bits and pieces I am exposed to through their
stories and the remnants of their hope of coming to America.
5/28/04
S. Saephan
Oakland, CA
I heard about the film for a while, but just got the chance to saw it this
evening. I enjoy the film, it has some content, but I have some questions.
I understand that the film maker's father was a converted. Had she or the
family converted back to traditional region? Is she reinstating her
belief? If she is a Christian, it's unorthodox for her to have the
ceremony for her dad in Thailand. Why is she doing the ceremony? As a son
of a Shaman I am offended.
The film title fooled me. I thought the film was about the religious
belief and it transitions. I would title this film
"My father: The Shaman," or "Death of a Shaman: A Family Journey." However, ?Death of a
Shaman? is
catchier.
thank you for reading and putting up the site.
5/28/04
Mitsu Kubo
I thought this film was a tremendous inspiration; having an immigrant
father from Japan, I could very much relate to having a cultural barrier
between your parent(s). I was nodding my head so much when an
anthropologist was talking about how, if the children of immigrant
parents, are raised in America, it creates a cultural gap, because the
children have to be the parents' translators and whatnot...I could totally
relate. I just wanted to say to Fahm, that you are such an inspiration to
me, and you encourage me to find out more about my heritage and roots.
Thank you so much for sharing your history; I won't forget it.
Yours truly,
M. Kubo
5/28/04
Soroush Kaboli
as an immigrant who came her almost 30 yeard ago and had a very different
path and fortune, I related and felt for you.
I am proud of the strenght of your character and the fact that you are
and will find the American dream through education, dedication, hard wrok
and good human values.
Please continue to be an inspiration for your family and friends and
others like me.
I shall order the tape for my 11 year old daughter who will be traveling
to my homeland(Iran) for the first time this summer.
5/28/04
Rishi Verma
Bloomington, IN
As an Indian American, I really felt that I could relate to how Fahm felt
when she traveled to Thailand. Even though I am now an American citizen, I
still feel deeply connected to my family and culture in India. Everytime I
visit, I feel somewhat like how Fahm felt when she journeyed to Thailand -
part of something greater than herself. And I think that this is an
important experience for immigrants to have, as many of us face issues of
not really knowing where we belong.
5/28/04
Naho
Thank you for sharing your precious story of your family. I have so much
thought right now. For now, I just wanted to say that I appreciate that
film. Thank you.
5/28/04
Texas
Just saw the film, and I was moved. What got me the most was the feeling
Fahm had when she returned back to Thailand meet her relatives. There was
a deep feeling of acceptance, connection, of belonging to one another, as
it really should be with family. The feeling overwhelmed her when she
left and had to say goodbye, to know the suffering that she left them in,
these people that she just met yet are now a part of her forever. I have
never felt this with my relatives, who are Filipino. I have felt this
more with my friends and my friends' families, who are Vietnamese. My
relatives, especially the ones that grew up in the Philippines, are
judgemental, unaccepting. To me, these are symptoms of insecurity in
their (our) own heritage, our own roots, or lack thereof, due to hundreds
of years of cultural rape during colonization. Fahm is lucky to have that
feeling, that connection. I have known that feeling, but only
peripherally through my Viet friends and their families, never through my
own relatives.
In this sense, even given the hardships that her relatives in Thailand
face, she is lucky to have that deep rooted bond, that unadulterated,
natural, familial love, that gives meaning to her life and binds her
people and culture together.
5/28/04
Sacramento, CA
Hi, love the show, very educating and touching. To see the proverty in
other countries reminds me how selfish we all are at times. How much we
complain and others have it so much worst than us. I just have one
question, what was the name of the guy that killed you the oldest sister
and what happen to him? Did he pay for his crime?
5/28/04
DE'BORAH EL ISSA
Houston,Texas
The documentation was very heart warming, I cried when I saw the after
affects of of her father in this country,I was very moved by every thing
that happen to her family,including the death of her sister and how she
died so violently. if I can be of any help,please let me know.I am not
rich,but the little that I do have,I am willing to share with her
family,may god have mercy on us all!!!!!with all my love!!!
5/28/04
Kozie Bartow
Fort Worth, Texas
Just happened to catch this wonderful documentary tribute to a father and
the Mien people. Of course I cried. My grandparents were immigrants from
Poland; I have often wondered what brought them here. I know they had a
hard life in America.
Prejudice keeps people from coming together in a community of support.
Just today I was with some very wealthy people, relatives of a dying
friend. They were most uncomfortable with our group, friends because of
our membership in Alcoholics Anonymous. We have grown confident in
ourselves, and are inclusive from our association w/a diverse community in
A. A. Prejudice disolves when people become acquainted, especially if
something occurs to break down the walls of protection we build from fear
of the unfamiliar. Several things interfered with Yoon's assimilating
into America. I hope Fahm realizes that his losing his way in this life
(one of many?) may have been a sacrifice he chose before he was born that
she might produce this incredible story. My father's untreated alcoholism eventually led
to my
brothers and my sobriety; sobriety has given us a new perspective, love, and joy. We three
share our
experience, strength, and hope with others.
Thank you, Fahm
5/28/04
Ena
I just wanted to say that was one of the best documentaries I've ever
seen. I felt it was the best "Reality T.V." ever made. I'm impressed,
empowered and more in touch with the importance of who we are and where
we've come from. I am not Mien but I relate to the strugles of living
here in America and on the other hand feeling the guilt and sadness for
the many many people in other countries that still strugle more than we
do. How hard it must be to have family on both sides of that coin? It
must take great responsibility and Fahem, you make your father proud.
Your whole family proud.
Congrats on your excellent work. Thanks to PBS for great programing!
5/28/04
Pamela Ortiz
Modesto,Ca
i just saw your show. I felt inspired to go back to my own roots. I was
moved by the program and i felt that i needed to get in touch with the
film maker. Thank you very much for your time.
5/28/04
Bonnie L. Buchanan
ponchatoula, LA
I am a Scottish Irish Philipino American, born in Dade FL in the US. My
mom is directly from the philipines in Manila. I grew up hearing stories
of her homeland, but never learned our language as my father was against
it. I hated that and hated being different, being called a 'boat person'
and being teased for not looking like the average caucasion or african
americans with whom I grew up. I hated America as a child and use to wish
to live back in the 'mystical' philipines. But, as I grew up, I learned
of the poverty and suffering there and learned to appreciate what most
other Americans take for granted, particularly watching the civil wars and
problems back in the philipines.
My mom was one of 13 children, her family had land, a store and servants
until the japanese invasion, when she lost it all and many of her
relatives. I have always wanted to take my mom home, she has never been
back since she left over 33 yrs ago (I'm 33 and she left there when my
sister was only 6mths old, having married my father who was in the US Airforce.) I think
if he is
still alive she has only one brother left.
Coming to America, she spoke little english and I found out as an adult
she faced my father's family, who did not approve of her, but accepted
her, because of my sister and myself. She is my hero, the bravest and
strongest person I know. When I was only 2 1/2 yrs old, my mother and
father seperated. They were very young when they married in their
early-mid 20's. She then set out to raise two young girls alone. I have
a brother, but, they were astranged until only a few years ago. After a
13 yr. time of no communication (I have only seen him maybe 4 times in my
lifetime) when I used the internet to find him. Her heart broke when she
found out that he had told his girlfriend, the mother of her grandson she
never knew about, that he was an orphan). My mother raised my sister and
I well, she sacrificed so much for us and worked in a factory until just a
few years ago (she is now going to be 66 and has retired) to make it here on her own.
Thankfully,
because she was frugal, we never lacked as we grew up and never knew the hardships she
faced. It was
only when I moved to go to college (I was the first person in my family to go to college,
my mother
and father have 6th and 8th grade educations), that I realized how incredible she was and
how hard
life here can be on your own. I have spent the last year and a half bedridden because of a
back
injury/disease, until I had back surgery 3 wks ago. I am just getting back on my feet, but
healing
quickly thankfully. My life dream has been to be able to afford to take my mother home for
at least
a visit to Manila. I never knew any of my relatives. I only have seen two pictures of my
grand
mother and those only last year. In one she is in her coffin, a dainty and petite woman.
The photo
is worn and cracked with time, but she looks so fraile and small. The other is a picture
within a
funneral picture of a closed coffin of an aunt I never knew. I used my graphic artist
skills to pull
the picture out of the picture and am working to
restore it for my mother (it was on old canvas or cloth and there was a
dark wrinkle across her face cutting across the photo). My philipine
roots are something I have always felt as a hole in my life.
Your story touched me so much, I cried I think through the whole thing
and still. *smiles* You are an amazing woman to have come so far, I am
certain your father is at peace. By making your film you have shared so
much with the world of your culture. The shots of his tapes and the
information contained therein was absolutely facinating. I hope that you
are able to take them and share them with other Min Americans along with
sub-title translations, so that others like myself can learn more of your
culture.
With utmost respect and sincere warm wishes,
Thank you again for your film, which touched me and the lost philipine in
me more than I can ever express to you in this email.
5/28/04
j.elswick
It is the greed, hatred and corruption of so many people in this land.
5/25/04
Stacy Saephanh
Sacramento, CA
Hello! Love the site, just reporting a minor mistake > the first Mien to arrive in the
U.S. was
1975, not 1979. =) Please correct, thank you!
<< Thank you for your comment. It has been brought to our attention that not
everyone
agrees on this date. While researching the website, we found that multiple sources listed
conflicting years for the date of the first Mien family's arrival in the United States.
Fahm
Saeyang, the DEATH OF A SHAMAN filmmaker, provided us with the 1979 date that we decided
to use on
the site. >>
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