Sayéik Research Film

“Sayéik is a research film that examines historical events of colonization in Southeast Alaska. By illustrating the relationship between native and non-native communities throughout the 20th century, the documentary aims to celebrate the early success of place name revitalization projects across the state. In this film, language is specifically utilized for the act of healing. Sayéik (“Spirit Helper”), was the Tlingit name spoken to reference land around Douglas Borough/ Sandy Beach. After the Burning of the Douglas Indian Village in 1962 and construction of Gastineau Elementary School over Tlingit graves, the Taku Kwaan requested that the name of Gastineau Elementary School be changed to reflect the ancestral name, Sayéik.”

-Luke Holton