People of the West is a ten-part documentary series that tells California history through Native voices and perspectives. Drawing from Tribal oral histories, rare archival materials, expert interviews and cinematic reenactments, the series traces the story from creation and life before European contact through the missions, Gold Rush, statehood, genocide, survival and the lives of Native Californians today. Created for classrooms and public audiences alike, People of the West challenges the version of California history most of us were taught and reveals how much of the story was left out.
For 25 years, the San Diego International Film Festival has been Celebrating the Power of Film while living at the intersection of culture, coast and cinema —championing bold stories, global perspectives, and meaningful connections in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. As we celebrate our 25th Anniversary, we honor the past, engage the present, and look toward the future of film in San Diego and beyond.