Celebrating Native American Heritage Month in Film
We’re celebrating this #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth by sharing films about the inspiring works and life stories of artists, authors, and activists from Indigenous communities.
Te Ata (2016)
The 2016 biopic TE ATA tells the true story of the prolific Chickasaw Nation actress and storyteller Mary Thompson Fisher (known as Te Ata) who traveled the world entertaining and educating audiences on Native American customs and heritage in the early 20th century. Throughout her over 60-year stage career, Te Ata performed her one-woman show in countless theatres across the U.S., Europe, and Canada including several historic performances at the White House by invitation of President Roosevelt. View this inspiring tribute to a barrier-breaking artist and heroine of Indigenous communities here.
Stories I Didn't Know (2020)
The 2020 documentary STORIES I DIDN’T KNOW follows the steadfast mission of filmmaker Rita Davern to unearth the difficult truth behind her family’s settlement of Dakota tribal lands in Minnesota during the 1860s. As tensions about her family’s legacy begin to surface, Davern connects with modern-day Dakota people and educators to reconcile with the past and better understand the traumatic impacts of westward expansion. View one woman’s resolve to attain restorative justice for Indigenous communities here.
N. Scott Momaday: Words from a Bear (2018)
Jeff Palmer’s 2018 biographical documentary N. SCOTT MOMADAY: WORDS FROM A BEAR chronicles the influential life and work of the Kiowa poet, storyteller, and novelist N. Scott Momaday. Narrated with Momaday’s own creative words and poetry, the film uses rare archival footage and stunning animation to bring to life the remarkable life story of the Pulitzer Prize winning author. View this stirring portrait of a celebrated Native American storyteller here.
This May Be the Last Time (2013)
THIS MAY BE THE LAST TIME follows the moving journey of award-winning filmmaker Sterlin Harjo to reconcile with the mysterious loss of his grandfather in 1962. As a citizen of the Seminole Nation, Harjo embarks on a spiritual path throughout Southwest America to find solace and deeper connection with his ancestors. While navigating through his family’s grief, Harjo discovers the rich tradition of sacred hymns to help heal and unite Indigenous communities through times of tragedy. View this illuminating film here.
Warrior Lawyers (2021)
On this last day of #NativeAmericanHeritageMonth we’re sharing the 2021 PBS produced documentary WARRIOR LAWYERS. This insightful film centers on the courageous work of Native American lawyers to advocate for the restorative justice and legal rights of Indigenous communities. From preserving Indigenous lands, to protecting the environment, and improving cultural representation, these public servants work diligently to improve the social welfare and human rights of these historically marginalized communities. View this thought-provoking tribute to these unsung heroes of the justice system here.
Published 10/31/2023
Curated by Josh Windham
