Tucked away in the mountains of Chiapas lives a remarkable woman named Hilda. With care and resilience, she raised two boys on her own in a small Tzotzil community. Years later, her son Xun returns with his camera, seeking a deeper understanding of the struggles she faced and the strength she possesses.

Xun’s new documentary Mamá shines a light on Hilda’s little-told story. Through intimate conversations between mother and son, we learn of the hardships she endured from a young age. Promised in marriage at only nine, she rebelled as a teen and gave birth out of wedlock, facing deep stigma. Limited opportunities left indigenous women vulnerable.

Yet despite the hardships, Hilda has built a life of dignity through perseverance. She worked to support her family however possible. While traditional gender roles confined many to the home, Hilda now advocates for women’s health in her rural areas.