PHETMIXAY MEANS FIGHTER is an award-winning short documentary film that explores Lao American refugee resiliency narratives through the life of Rita's father, Phoutone Phetmixay. As the central character, Phoutone’s poetic remembrances of his commitment to the Lao Royal Army, displacement from Laos, and resettlement in the United States all serve to consider the complex history of Lao Americans in the geopolitical context of U.S. invention and the socialist Lao government. Phetmixay Means Fighter is invested in creating a space to validate a part of Rita's family hxstory by way of mourning, healing, and building community amongst fellow Lao Americans. This film has since been shown in 10+ locations across the nation at selected film festivals and academic institutions.
