The Raramuris is an indigenous group that occupies most of the Southwest state of Chihuahua, Mexico. They are more commonly known as the Tarahumaras, however, Raramuri is how they refer to themselves. Raramuri means “light feet” as they commonly cross long distances by foot. They are also renowned runners who have races which last several days. 

    Because the area they occupy is so vast and rises up to altitudes of 3,000 metres above sea level, many of them live beyond the reach of civilization, and many of them still live in caves. Many of them do not use the Mexican currency and prefer to share their goods amongst themselves. 

    Problems like extreme poverty, local corruption, racism and global warming are making it more and more difficult for the Raramuris to stay in their own land, and many of them emigrate to the cities as a last resort. There are many fatalities due to the extreme temperatures (-20 to 50C) and illnesses, worsened by the lack of medicines. This type of flux is encouraging the disintegration of a culture they had kept alive for centuries.

    Prior to making this film, I had the opportunity to see first hand the extreme circumstances in which many children live, and it was obvious  from looking at their faces that they suffer from nutrition deficiencies. It was heartbreaking.

LIGHT FEET was written as a tribute to the magic world of those children.

I encourage everyone to learn more and get involved by visiting the local government website www.tarahumara.com.mx and where you can also make donations.