“We’re excited to be part of the Official Latino Film and Arts Festival and showcase how we’re all connected to the Colorado River,” said Maite Arce, President and CEO of Hispanic Access Foundation. “The Lower Colorado River is an integral part of our heritage and way of life. From serving as the backbone for the agricultural industry to providing a cultural focal point for faith communities, the Lower Colorado River is essential to the livelihood of the Southwest.”

The festival's mission is to showcase, nurture and support emerging creative American Latino filmmakers in the United States, as well as support culturally inclusive films and filmmakers that present true American diversity. Milk and Honey provides a short, beautiful glimpse into Yuma, Arizona’s Latino community and their financial, spiritual, historical and cultural connection to the strained Colorado River.

Yuma is often thought of as a hot, dry desert town in southwestern Arizona, but for the area residents - and the United States as a whole, it is the land of plenty. During the winter months, nearly all the leafy vegetables Americans eat are grown in Yuma’s fertile fields, which lie at the end of the Colorado River. Unfortunately, in 2017 American Rivers named the Lower Colorado River the country’s most endangered river.

“Milk and Honey shows the impact the Colorado River has on our communities and underscores how this river truly is the backbone of the west and the importance it has for Latino communities throughout the west,” said Arce. “Through the eyes of Latino farm workers, faith leaders and historians, we gain a better understanding of why we all need to step up to protect the Colorado River for future generations.”

The 14-minute film has been screened at various festivals, such as the Wild and Scenic Film Festival, the Americas Latino Eco Festival, the Environmental Film Festival in the Nation’s Capital and at numerous community events. The film will be showcase on Sunday, October 14 at 10:30 am - 12:30 pm at Coachella Library (1538 Seventh Street, Coachella, CA 92236). Tickets are $12 and can be purchased here.