Our Ocean Heritage Film Wins Ecodox Award – Honoring Ocean Heritage in American Samoa
When I traveled to American Samoa, I had the incredible opportunity to be part of a historic moment. I joined three icons of ocean exploration and environmental leadership – Jean-Michel Cousteau, Dr. Sylvia Earle, and Nainoa Thompson – to greet the Hōkūle‘a, the legendary Polynesian sailing vessel as it arrived to request permission from American Samoa to continue its Worldwide Voyage. This journey, led by the Polynesian Voyaging Society, was a global mission to Mālama Honua – to care for Island Earth – by connecting communities around the world in the spirit of cultural heritage, sustainability, and ocean stewardship.
Being present for the Hōkūle‘a’s arrival was a profound experience. It was more than just a ceremonial event – it was a convergence of ancestral wisdom, cutting-edge ocean advocacy, and a powerful call to action. While there, I had the rare chance to dive with Jean-Michel Cousteau, Sylvia Earle and Nainoa Thompson on the vibrant coral reefs of American Samoa. And, I was able to witness the deep-rooted connections between the people, the land, and the ocean.
After a Dive with Jean-Michel Cousteau, Sylvia Earle and Nainoa Thompson
Inspired by that experience, I returned home and collaborated with the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries to help tell that story. I edited six short films that became the American Samoa Culture and Ocean Conservation Film Series – a collection that celebrates traditional knowledge, showcases stunning marine ecosystems, and elevates the voices of local stewards working to protect their natural resources and heritage.
🎥 Our Ocean Heritage: A Story Across Oceans and Generations
One of the films in the series, Our Ocean Heritage, brings together interviews with Cousteau, Earle, and Thompson to reflect on humanity’s evolving relationship with the ocean. It weaves together two iconic vessels: the Hōkūle‘a and the Charles W. Morgan, a 19th-century American whaling ship that has been transformed into a sailing ambassador for marine conservation.
Once a tool of industrial whaling, the Charles W. Morgan – now restored and preserved by Mystic Seaport Museum – embarked on its symbolic “38th Voyage” to inspire reflection on our maritime past and promote stewardship of marine life. In the film, it stands as a powerful contrast and complement to the Hōkūle‘a, showing how we can shift from exploitation to reverence in how we treat the ocean.
Our Ocean Heritage film
Run time: 6:20 min
🌍 From the Pacific to the Nation’s Capital
Our Ocean Heritage was selected to screen at the Environmental Film Festival in Washington, D.C., where it reached a national audience of conservationists, educators, and policymakers. It also received the Ecodox Award at the San Pedro International Film Festival – an honor that recognized its thoughtful storytelling and environmental message.
Jim Knowlton poses with SPIFF Festival Director Ziggy Mrkich and the EcoDox Award
Why This Project Matters
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It amplified indigenous and scientific voices at a time when cultural and environmental leadership must go hand in hand.
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It bridged the past and future, honoring both traditional ocean knowledge and the transformation of historic vessels like the Charles W. Morgan into symbols of hope.
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It connected local stories to global audiences, helping people see American Samoa not only as a beautiful place, but as a living example of ocean-centered resilience and leadership.
To learn more or watch the full film series, visit:
🔗 American Samoa Culture and Ocean Conservation Film Series
🔗 Our Ocean Heritage on Ocean Futures
