Native youth team up on HIV film project

By: Babette Herrmann

SAN DIEGO, Calif. - Fanny Garvey, a grant specialist for the San Diego American Indian Health Center, was thrilled when her writing prowess garnered a $15,000 grant to spearhead a Native youth filmmaking project on the dangers of HIV/AIDS.

The project began April 21, and the grant requires that students call it a wrap by July 28.

As an experienced multimedia person, Garvey knew that she was working with a tight budget and deadline, but she called on the technical support of the Media Arts Center San Diego. They stepped up to the plate by providing the equipment, some education, and place for students to work on all aspects of production.

Ten students were selected from a pool of local applicants to film and edit the 8 - 10 minute documentary titled, ''It's Your Life, Live It Safe,'' with the help of Garvey and a film technician.

''I am grateful that I am able to work with the youth,'' Garvey said.

Esmeralda Cruz, 16, said the documentary walks viewers through the experience of a Native teen who decides to take an HIV test. In between the process of being tested and obtaining results, it features student interviews with sources from the SDAIHC and the community.

At the time of the interview, Cruz, Mexica, said she was working on the setting up the letters for the title. From this experience, she is thinking about pursuing a degree in film, and furthering her passion and study of photography.

There's more here: http://www.indiancountry.com/content.cfm?id=1096415409