Samuel Tamo

Indigenous Roots Productions
As an Assyrian, I have lived through and consequently studied the social and psychological impact of diaspora and indigenous marginalization. Stories shared by family and friends have been one of the only avenues I can access to connect with distant and unmet relatives. Founding Indigenous Roots Productions comes directly as a result of my own experiences and education; we partner with indigenous communities by facilitating the production and distribution of stories told by communities themselves. IRP merges the academic theory and knowledge of my higher education with the realities of my own life path as a stateless, diasporic, indigenous person. Through Social Justice, Psychological, and Anthropological theories oral history film and folkloric music production allows the opportunity for qualitative research empowered by modern technology. Following my MASJHR at Arizona State University I served as a teacher and coach at Episcopal Collegiate School in Little Rock, AR. In my time there we enjoyed success becoming Cross Country State Champions as well as endured through the Covid Pandemic. These seven years of experience as a teacher - before, during, and after the pandemic - provided invaluable experiences with communication, high-tension workplace environments, and flexibility. In addition to IRP am a certified personal trainer with NASM currently working towards a Corrective Exercise Specialization. B.A. International Studies; Sociology- Honors Interdisciplinary Studies MinorUniversity of Central Arkansas (2012)MA Social Justice & Human Rights - NGO ManagementArizona State University (2014)

Experience

B.A. University of Central Arkansas - 2012 Majors: International Studies - Diplomacy; SociologyMinor: Honors Interdisciplinary StudiesMA Arizona State University - 2014Social Justice & Human Rights - NGO ManagementMy undergraduate and graduate theses both significantly utilized oral history methodology beginning in 2012. During my time at ASU an Oral History/Archival History Seminar expanded my ethical considerations and research toolkit. I am now a full-time oral historian as Executive Director of Indigenous Roots Productions - a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization entirely focused on oral history film and folkloric music production for indigenous peoples.

Languages

Other Languages: Assyrian (Neo-Aramaic)

Specialty

Mission - Indigenous Roots Productions (IRP) empowers indigenous communities with the opportunity to engage in cultural expression through oral history filmmaking as well as folkloric music production. Vision - IRP uses modern media and production resources to help preserve the planets diverse heritage of First Peoples. We believe that diffusing these sounds and stories around the world can bring light to our shared roots and humanity.

Subject Areas

    • Local/Regional Histories:
    • Indigenous Communities; Mesopotamian; Latin America

    Purpose of Contact

    • I am available to answer questions, or provide mentorship to other oral historians
    • I am available for hire - as an oral historian, consultant, presenter, educator, or related services
    • I am available to collaborate - on research, community projects, artistic endeavors, or other joint undertakings with peers
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