Indigenous Peoples' Day is a national holiday to celebrate Native American customs and heritage on the second Monday in October. The holiday was first recognized in 2021 by the Biden administration. European Colonizers led to an enormous loss of lives and land for Native Americans. The way United States was built will always affect many of us to this day. Indigenous People's Day is an opportunity for allies to celebrate Native survival, and for organizations to support Indigenous Tribes and people. Many communities use this day to reflect on Indigenous history, advocate for rights, and promote awareness of ongoing issues facing Indigenous populations. Celebrations often include cultural events, educational programs, and discussions about Indigenous rights and sovereignty. November will be National Native American Heritage Month. In honor of Indigenous People Day, here are Indigenous stories, authors, and media:
Betrayal of Liliuokalani - Helena G Allen
Mangilaluk - Bernard Andreason (Illustrated by Alan Gallo)
“Some children are born into the world and are home as soon as they come Earthside. Others spend their lifetimes searching for a home, a place to belong, a place where they are safe. I am one of those children.”
Andreason's memoir of belonging, perseverance, and resiliency after running away from residential school surviving and grieving over two friends that did not make the journey.
Indigenizing Philosophy through the Land: A Trickster Methodology for Decolonizing Environmental Ethics and Indigenous Futures - Brian Burkhart
How Indians Use Wild Plants for Food, Medicine & Crafts - Frances Densmore
Mask of the Deer Woman - Laurie L. Dove
At rock bottom following her daughter’s death, ex-Chicago detective Carrie Starr has nowhere to go but back to her roots.
Seven Aunts - Staci Lola Drouillard
Part memoir, part cultural history, these memories of seven aunts holding home and family together tell a crucial, often overlooked story of women of the twentieth century.
An Indigenous People's History of the United States -
Roxanne Dunbar - Ortiz
The first history of the United States told from the perspective of indigenous peoples.
Buffalo Dreamers - Violet Dunkin
Bad Cree - Jessica Jones
Weaving Sundown in a Scarlet Light: Fifty Poems for Fifty Years - Joy Harjo, Sandra Cisneros (Foreword by)
Indigenous Food Sovereignty in the United States: Restoring Cultural Knowledge, Protecting Environments, and Regaining Health - Devon A. Mihesuah & Elizabeth Hoover (Foreword Winona Laduke)
Becoming Kin: An Indigenous Call to Unforgetting the Past and Reimagining Our Future - Patty Krawec
Gaawin Gindaaswin Ndaawsii: I Am Not a Number
Jenny Kay Dupuis & Kathy Kacer
Illustrated by Gillian Newland
Blood Sisters - Vanessa Lillie
1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus - Charles Mann
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Recovering Our Ancestors' Gardens: Indigenous Recipes and Guide to Diet and Fitness - Devon A. Mihesuah
Talking Sky: Ojibwe Constellations as a Reflection of Life on the Land -
Carl Gawboy & Ron Morton
By the Fire We Carry: The Generations-Long Fight for Justice on Native Land - Rebecca Nagle
The Girl Who Sang to the Buffalo: A Child, an Elder, and the Light from an Ancient Sky - Kent Nerburn
Indian Voices: Listening to Native Americans - Alison Owings
Where the Sea Kuniks the Land - Ashley Qilavaq-Savard
Turtle Lung Woman's Granddaughter - Delphine Red Shirt
The Science of the Sacred: Bridging Global Indigenous Medicine Systems and Modern Scientific Principles - Nicole Redvers
Iwígara: American Indian Ethnobotanical Traditions and Science -
Enrique Salmón
Lost Kingdom: Hawaii's Last Queen, the Sugar Kings and America's First Imperial Adventure - Julia Flynn Siler
As We Have Always Done: Indigenous Freedom Through Radical Resistance - Leanne Betasamosake Simpson
Decolonizing Methodologies: Research and Indigenous Peoples -
Linda Tuhiwai Smith
Seven Fallen Feathers: Racism, Death, and Hard Truths in a Northern City - Tanya Talaga
Rez Life: An Indian's Journey Through Reservation Life - David Treuer
Never Whistle at Night - Shane Hawk and Theodore C. Van Alst Jr.
What Does Justice Look Like: The Struggle for Liberation in Dakota Homeland - Waziyatawin, Ph. D.
As Long as Grass Grows: The Indigenous Fight for Environmental Justice, from Colonization to Standing Rock - Dina Gilio-Whitaker
Red Alert: Saving the Planet With Indigenous Knowledge - Daniel R. Wildcat
Elements of Indigenous Style: A Guide for Writing by and about Indigenous Peoples - Gregory Younging
Sand Talk: How Indigenous Thinking Can Save the World - Tyson Yunkaporta
Native American in the Media
The importance of Native Americans on TV is multi-faceted and can have a profound impact on cultural representation, social understanding, and historical accuracy. Here are some key points that highlight the significance:
Representation and Visibility
Native Americans have been historically underrepresented or misrepresented in mainstream media, often relegated to stereotypical or one-dimensional roles. Increasing the presence of Native American characters and stories on TV allows for more authentic portrayals that reflect the diversity, complexity, and richness of Native cultures. Representation is essential because it gives Native peoples a voice and visibility in the broader public discourse, helping to challenge harmful stereotypes and misunderstandings.
Cultural Preservation and Education
Television can serve as a powerful tool for preserving and sharing Native American cultures, traditions, languages, and histories. By depicting accurate and respectful portrayals of Native communities, TV shows can educate audiences about the diverse histories and contemporary experiences of Native peoples. This can foster greater cultural appreciation and understanding, as well as a sense of pride within Native communities.
Challenging Stereotypes
For much of the 20th century, Native Americans were often portrayed in a limited and stereotypical way on TV—either as "noble savages," violent antagonists, or as a disappearing relic of the past. The modern push for more accurate, nuanced portrayals seeks to dismantle these stereotypes and present Native people as dynamic, contemporary individuals with complex identities. TV can help redefine what it means to be Native American in the 21st century, showcasing characters who are doctors, lawyers, artists, activists, and more.
Empowerment and Self-Representation
Native Americans creating and starring in their own stories on TV can empower both the creators and their audiences. Self-representation allows Native people to control how they are depicted, leading to more authentic and meaningful portrayals. This is particularly important for young Native viewers, who can see themselves in leading roles, which can foster a sense of belonging and self-worth.
Highlighting Contemporary Issues
Native Americans face a range of unique social, economic, and political issues, from struggles with land rights and sovereignty to challenges related to health care, education, and representation in government. TV can bring these issues to the forefront, amplifying the voices of Native people and contributing to important social and political conversations. Shows like Reservation Dogs and Rutherford Falls have highlighted the contemporary lives of Native communities, showing that Native Americans are living, evolving, and contributing to society today.
Social Impact and Advocacy
Media representation has the power to shape public opinion and policy. By showing Native Americans in a wide variety of roles—whether as historical figures, contemporary activists, or fictional characters—TV can influence how society views Native communities and their rights. In turn, this representation can impact social movements, legal reforms, and policy changes aimed at addressing the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Native peoples.
Expanding American Narratives
The history and culture of Native Americans are foundational to understanding the broader story of the United States. Integrating Native perspectives into TV programming enriches American storytelling and provides a more complete picture of the nation's history and its present-day realities. Shows that reflect Native American experiences help dismantle the notion of a "monolithic" American identity and embrace a more inclusive narrative.
Examples of Positive Representation
Recent TV shows and films have made strides in presenting Native Americans in more authentic and empowering ways:
- "Reservation Dogs" (2021-2023 ✒Hulu): A critically acclaimed series co-created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi, showcasing the lives of four Native American teenagers living on a reservation in Oklahoma. The show is praised for its authentic portrayal of contemporary Native life and its diverse, largely Native cast.
- "Rutherford Falls" (2021 ✒ Peacock): This show centers on the relationship between a fictional small town and the local Native American tribe, blending humor with deeper discussions of historical and cultural issues.
- "Dark Winds" (2022 ✒AMC): Based on the books by Tony Hillerman, this crime drama features Native American protagonists and explores themes of identity, spirituality, and justice within a Navajo context.
In conclusion, Native Americans on TV are crucial for fostering understanding, breaking stereotypes, empowering Native communities, and providing an honest and comprehensive view of American society. The importance of representation in media cannot be overstated, as it shapes how individuals and communities perceive one another and themselves.
Amber Midthunder (Fort Peck Assiniboine & Sioux Tribe)
Film Actor
Amaya ~ Not Forgotten (2009)
Model #1 ~ Drunktown's Finest (2014)
Lana Cleary ~ Banshee (2013-2016)
Kerry Loudermilk ~ Legion (2017-2019)
Naru ~ Prey (2022)
Recently, Midthunder joined as co-lead in Painter, an upcoming action franchise from John Wick, as Sarah Connor.
IG: @ambermidthunder
Adam Beach (Saulteaux Anishinaabe - Plains Ojibwe)
Film Actor
Squanto ~ Squanto: A Warrior's Tale (1994)
Kicking Wing ~ Joe Dirt (2001)
Bobby Martin ~ Arctic Air (2012-2014)
Slipknot ~ Suicide Squad (2016)
Adam ~ The Birds Who Fear Death (2024)
Wes Studi (Cherokee)
Film Actor and Producer
Magua ~ The Last of the Mohicans (1992)
Charon ~ Seraphim Falls (2006)
Eytukan ~ Avatar (2009)
Numay ~ Road to Paloma (2014)
Nick ~ The Roof (2023)
Quannah Chasinghorse (Hän Gwich'in, Navaho)
Model | Producer | Documentary Dept | Indigenous and Land Activist
IG: @quannah.rose
Floyd 'Red Crow' Westerman (Dakota Souix)
Musician | Film Actor | Native American Advocate
Born: August 17, 1936, Lake Traverse Reservation
Passed: December 13, 2007 (age 71 years)
Ten Bears ~ Dances with Wolves (1990)
Wilf Redwing ~ Clearcut (1991)
George Littlefox ~ Dharma & Greg (1997)
Chief Eagle Horn ~ Hidalgo (2004)
Director, writer, and host: Exterminate Them! America's Destruction of Indian Nations: The California Story (2006)
Standing Elk ~ The Legend of Tillamook's Gold
Custer Died For Your Sins (1969 USA / 1978 EUD)
35 More Miles & World Without Tomorrow (1970)
Indian Country (1970)
Mariposa Folk Festival (1976)
The Land Is Your Mother (1984)
Eddie Spears
Film Actor
Eddie Spears is a member of the Kul Wičaša Oyate Lakota (often called "Sioux") of the Lower Brulé Sioux Tribe of South Dakota.
Black Cloud ~ Black Cloud (2004)
Older Red Lance ~ Into the West Series (2005)
Angry Wolf ~ Yellow Rock (2011)
Joseph Black moon ~ Hell on Wheels Series (2011-2016)
Voice of Grey Beaver ~ White Fang (2018)
Q'orianka Kilcher (Diné Navajo, Desc of Peruvian Quechua-Huachipaeri)
Film Actor | Producer | Director
Princess Ka'iulani ~ Princess Kaiulani (2009)
Pinti ~ Shouting Secrets (2011)
Mayor Tooma ~ Color Out of Space (2019)
Running Club ~ The Unholy Trinity (2024)
Zahn McClarnon (Hunkpapa & Sihasapa Lakota Sioux Tribe)
Film Actor
Deputy Bear ~ Silent Fall (1994)
Running Fox ~ Into the West (2005)
Embry ~ The Twilight Saga Series (2009-2012)
Derrick ~ Accused Series (2023 )
IG: Kiowajgordon
The Rancher ~ Certain Women (2016)
Lila ~ Walking Out (2017)
Sharon ~ Little Chief (2020)
Irene Bedard ( Cree (Metis), Iñupiat Yup'ik, Native Village of Koyuk)
Film Actor and Producer
Mary Crow Dog ~ Lakota Women: Siege at Wounded Knee (1994)
Voice of Pocahontas ~ Pocahontas (1995)
Annie Shorty ~ Edge of America (2004)
Lucy Mills ~ Vertical (2013)
Joanna ~ How to Blow Up a Pipeline (2022)
IG: @IreneBedard
Geswanouth Slahoot or Chief Dan George (Tsleil-Waututh First Nation or Burrard Inlet Indian Band)
Film Actor | Musician | Poet | Author |
Born: July 24, 1899, Tsleil-Waututh First Nation, North Vancouver, Canada
Passed: September 23, 1981 (age 82 years), Vancouver, Canada
Author Dan George: Books
Old Lodge Skins ~ Little Big Man (1970)
Sam Two Feathers ~ Harry and Tonto (1974)
Lone Watie ~ The Outlaw Josey Wales (1976)
Moses ~ Spirit of the Wind (1979)
Dquaga ~ Matt and Jenny (1980)
Chief Moses Charlie ~ The Beachcombers (1972 - 1981)
Crystle Lightning (Enoch Cree - Alberta, CA)
Film Actor | Musician
Wynona 'Winnie' Whitefeather ~ The Last Chance Detectives: Mystery Lights of Navajo Mesa (1994)
Voice of Jen & Radio Caller #2 ~ Prey Video Game (2006)
Maggie ~ Trickster Series (2020)
Sapphire ~ Fancy Dance (2023)
Shiki ~ Ghosts (2021 - 2023)
Graham Greene CM (Oneida, First Nations)
Film Actor and Writer |
Walter Crow Horse ~ Thunderheart (1992)
Alren Bitterbuck ~ The Green Mile (1999)
Ben ~ Wind River (2017)
Jack ~ The Performance (2023)
Chief Ed ~ The Birds Who Fear Death (2024)
Sarain Fox (Anishinaabe from Baawaating, Sault Sainte Marie, Ontario, CA)
Film Actor | Director | Writer | Anishinaabe activist
Zombie ~ I Need You, Need Me (2011)
Sarain Fox ~ A Tribe Called Red Feat. Northern Voice: Sisters Music Video (2013)
Dancer ~ Once a Tree! Hide (2016)
Writer & Director ~ Inendi (2020)
IG: @sarainfox
Teneil Whiskeyjack (Plains Cree, Saddle Cree Lake Nation)
Film Actor | Founder and owner of Spirit Flame Consulting
Quillwork & Powwow Girl ~ DreamKeeper (2023)
Sarah Fox ~ Hank William's First Nation Series (2006 - 2007)
Diedra. ~Mixed Blessings Series (2010)
Kerry, Keri & Kyra Amos ~ Blackstone Series (2009 - 2015)
Fawn ~ Hey Viktor! (2023)
- Morningstar Angeline Wilson-Chippewa (Navajo, Shoshone, Blackfoot)
Film Actor | Director | Producer
Nizhoni Smiles ~ Drunktown's Finest (2014)
Local pedestrian population ~ Red Dead Redemption II (2018)
Odina ~ Westworld Series (2022)
Ann ~ Frybread Face and Me (2023)
Martha Hawk ~ Outer Range (2022 - 2024)
IG: @1942morningstar
Justin Rain (Plains Cree, First Nation)
Actor
Frank ~ The Guard (2008)
John ~ The Arrival Hour (2012)
Mike ~ Lean on Pete (2017)
Jon ~ Brother, I cry (2020)
Elliot/Baseball Player ~ Resident Alien (2022 - 2024)
Monika N Crowfoot (Navajo)
Film Actor | Model | Writer
Seen by The Nation ~ Woman Walks Ahead (2017)
Local Pedestrian Population ~ Red Dead Redemption II Video Game(2018)
Production Assistant ~ Fit with Freida (2019)
Julia Locklear ~ Chambers Series (2019)
Toyah ~ Django (2022 - 2023)
Ryan Begay (Diné, Navajo Nation, Arizona)
Film Actor | Camera & Electrician Department | Director
Good Samaritan ~ Breaking Bad Series (2012)
Javier ~ Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018)
Mud Frog Fan ~ Stargirl (2020)
Guy Atcitty ~ Dark Winds (2022 - 2023)
Kiowa ~ Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter 2 (2024)
IG: @ryanbegay
Taysha Fuller (Six Nation Reservation, Ontario, CA - Desc. of Cayuga Nation Wolf Clan/ Mohawk Nation Turtle Clan)
Actor | Location Management
School Girl ~ Only the Devil Speaks Cree (2002)
Stacy ~ Divided by Zero (2006)
Jessica Martello ~ Degrassi: The Next Generation (2010 - 2011)
Aurelia Clifford ~ Songs My Brother Taught Me (2015)
Sharon ~ Cold (2022)
linktree: Taysha Fuller
Martin Sensmeier (Tlingit, Koyukon-Athasbascan, Yakutat, Alaska)
Film & Video Game Actor | producer | Soundtrack
Tintah ~ K'ina Kil: The Slaver's Son (2014)
Red Harvest ~ The Magnificent Seven (2016)
Chip ~ Wind River (2017)
Voice of Chief Eddy ~ Tell Me Why (Video Game 2020)
Reginald Waters ~ FBI: Most Wanted Series (2020)
IG: @martinsensmeier
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