(Agri)Culture from the Pyrenees to the U.S.: Deep Roots and Enduring Traditions
"What stand are we willing to take to preserve for our future the roots of our past?"
A celebration of the 20th anniversary of the documentary film The Last Link, followed by a panel discussion about continuity and change in rural life and culture in mountain communities in France and the United States. The film follows Vermont teacher, Tim Kahn, and his son, filmmaker and director, Ben Kahn, as they discover the beauty of sustainable agricultural practices of the Béarnais and the Basque people of the Pyrénées, where shepherding has been a way of life for thousands of years. The documentary also traces the emigration of Basque shepherds to California and Wyoming in the 20th century. The film explores the challenges and the role of community in preserving both a cultural identity and traditional relationship with the land.
Tastes of the Pyrénées are provided by Common Roots Catering.
With support from St.Michael's College (Center for Global Engagement, Center for the Environment, & French Program), The Honfleur Sister City Committee, The Alliance Française of the Champlain Region, Le Président des Pyrénées Atlantiques, Le Consul Général de Boston & Common Roots