awarded with the
Erasmus Euromedia 2011 Special Award for Culture of Diversity
Laudatio by Marko Ivanisin, University of Maribor
With WINGS and ROOTS is an independent media project that explores what gets termed assimilation in the US and integration in Germany. Set in Berlin and New York, two cities and nations struggling with immigration and national identity, this educational project tells stories of children of immigrants from diverse backgrounds who are striving to expand their definitions of belonging.
The main product of the project is the feature-length documentary that by vérité footage and in-depth conversations gives insight into six protagonists personal rites of passage, each facing questions of identity and belonging, and finding different ways to root him/herself.
The film is supported by the website that serves as collaboration and communication tool. These didactical elements are well stressed and supported by activities in most popular virtual social networks.
By that only the educational aim of the project is obvious but then topped with what is called “educational material” and that could as well be independent products.
Namely, a 22-minutes documentary presents voices of ten young people who in interviews reflect on their family’s immigration process, growing up with multiple cultures, and how they see themselves today. It is a tool that is aimed to “lead discussions on complex identities, the impact of immigration, and many forms of racism, in the context of both societies’ increasing diversity.”
An accompanying discussion guide, a questionnaire that has been created for use with high schools students, university classrooms, and in community settings reflects the high complexity of the presented issues and in-depth insight of the project.
As blend of clear educational approach and transcultural content the With Wings and Roots production is honored with the Erasmus EuroMedia Special Award for Culture of Diversity.