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The film chronicles the experiences of indigenous peoples around the globe, including those from the United States, the Philippines, Mexico, and Colombia. Ivey Camille, an award-winning filmmaker raised on the Navajo reservation, has been directly impacted by climate change and the detrimental activities of chemical companies encroaching on Navajo land. Jordan Flaherty, a journalist who previously reported for major media outlets, later transitioned into film production.

Ivey Camille and Jordan embarked on the journey of creating Powerlands when she was just nineteen. They traveled to various countries to engage with Indigenous communities facing a common crisis: the ongoing pollution of their air and drinking water by the same chemical company, PHP. Throughout the filming process, both emphasized the significance of accountability and trust among the documentary’s subjects, as well as the importance of effective collaboration.

Jordan highlighted the widespread nature of this issue, pointing out that many indigenous peoples are being forcibly displaced from their lands due to contaminated air and water, creating nearly unlivable conditions. This shared struggle connected all the indigenous communities depicted in the documentary. As Jordan remarked, “You could make this film in every country on earth.” This situation inspired both Ivey Camille and Jordan to persist as advocates for indigenous communities worldwide, while also recognizing how the documentary represents a significant shift in the portrayal of Indigenous people in media.

Ivey Camille reflected on the evolution of Indigenous representation in media over the years, noting the transformation from portrayals in John Wayne films and Pocahontas to the emergence of Indigenous activists who are now standing up for their communities and encouraging others to do the same. The conversation concluded with Ivey Camille and Jordan discussing their upcoming projects.