By Andi Anderson
A documentary created by staff and faculty at Alma College is gaining national attention for its heartfelt storytelling and focus on the people who support Michigan agriculture. “Did You Guys Eat? Stories of Michigan Agriculture” has earned multiple awards since its release and continues to reach new audiences across the United States and internationally.
The film highlights the real lives of Michigan farmworkers, growers, and families who contribute to the state’s food system. It will be screened at the Ann Arbor District Library on December 1. More information about the event can be found at aadl.org/node/645517.
Stephany Slaughter, an Emmy Award-winning documentarian and Alma College Professor of World Languages and Cultures, shared how meaningful the project has been to those featured in the film.
She said, “One of the things I feel most proud of is hearing from the people who participated in the film. Many have shared the film because they’re proud to be part of it, and that’s incredibly meaningful.” She added that others have told her the film opens their eyes to the realities of farm labor, saying this kind of dialogue is the impact the team hoped for.
Over the past year, the documentary has built strong momentum through campus events, community screenings, and film festivals. A preview screening in April attracted 100 attendees, followed by an official premiere at the National Asparagus Festival in June, also attended by around 100 people.
The premiere included outreach groups and a panel discussion with individuals connected to Michigan agriculture.
The film’s festival run includes awards such as the Audience Choice Award at the Soo Film Festival and Best Feature Cinematography at the Grand Rapids Film Festival.
It has also been selected for screenings in Mexico City, Antigua, Guatemala, and the Hispanic International Film Festival, where it received an “Excellence” Award. More screenings are scheduled into early 2025.
“Did You Guys Eat?” presents a complete picture of life in Michigan agriculture. It includes interviews with small and large farmers, food sellers, migrant workers, and support organizations. Many parts of the film are spoken in Spanish and include subtitles, making the documentary accessible to a wide audience.
The project is fully produced by Alma College talent. It was co-produced by Slaughter and Nick Wracan, an instructor of media, art and design. Assistant Professor of Music Justin Rito, with student Audrey Merrifield, composed the score, and several students and alumni contributed to the film crew.
The documentary continues to expand conversations about agriculture and lift the voices of those who help feed Michigan communities.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Michigan, Education, General