In a commitment to be bonded with ancestors…

“Bienvenida Abuelita” weaves together documentary vignettes with stylized portraits journeying through grief, and reconciliation to honor the life and death of grandmothers.

Guided by the cadence of medicine songs, Megan visits memories of their grandmothers final days. As cancer rapidly erodes the body and mind of matriarch Celia, Megan works to recover family stories, traditions and what remains of their Mexican Heritage. Traversing language and religious barriers Megan seeks acceptance of their queerness and invites Celia to know and embrace her grandchild before she passes. After Celia’s spirit transitions, Megan welcomes their grandmother into their life finding solace in the traces of her that continue to grow.

Diving into the depths of dark ocean waters, walking through fields of cempasuchil (marigolds), and crawling into the inferno of a temazcal (traditional sweat lodge) - Megan embraces tradition and ceremony to deepen their connection.