Slave Island

Slavery persists on the Indonesian island of Sumba to this day: so-called “servants,” or Ata, belong to families of higher castes, are physically punished, and live in total lack of freedom. Activist Jeremy Kewuan seeks to end this form of oppression. He meets Lucky, a man who considers the ability to own several enslaved people his unquestionable right. Through careful investigation, the protagonist attempts to rescue an eight-year-old girl and effect broader systemic change. The documentary gathers testimonies from formerly enslaved people, tribal chiefs, and others who still believe in this cruel practice, building a picture of a system where inequality is considered a natural part of life.