The deep division in Andean society between rural and townspeople begins at birth, is perpetuated by the schools and continues throughout life. The film evidences the discrimination faced by the children of the rural and extremely poor campesinos. From different food arrangements at school to healthcare, there is a distinct divide between them and the town-dwelling mestizos. Evidence of discrimination's effects is unmitigated by the formal Flag Day festival that brings the two groups together with the campesinos urging their own to stand up against the mestizos and stop appearing cowardly before them. A stark portrayal of abject poverty and deep-rooted discrimination, The Children Know is an intriguing study in ethnographic filmmaking.
Faces of Change is comprised of 25 films that examine five cultures selected for their distinct geographic locations: starting with the China Coast at sea level and moving up to Taiwan, then to Afghanistan, Kenya and finally to the mountains of Bolivia. Each location is examined through five themes: Rural Society, Education, Rural Economy, Women, and Beliefs.
This innovative collection of 16mm films and videos was funded by the National Science Foundation, produced by Norman Miller and directed by some of the finest ethnographic filmmakers of its time.
