5 Essential American Indian Documentaries to Watch Now

5 Essential American Indian Documentaries to Watch Now

The stories of Indigenous peoples in the United States are complex, multifaceted, and often untold. Documentaries offer a powerful medium to explore these stories, providing vital insights into the history, culture, and resilience of American Indians. From powerful narratives of survival to explorations of contemporary issues, these films offer a window into a world often misunderstood and misrepresented.

This list highlights 5 essential American Indian documentaries that should be on everyone’s watchlist:

1. “The Cherokee Word for Water” (2014)

This powerful documentary by Heather Rae explores the devastating impact of the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) on the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and the broader fight for Indigenous water rights. The film follows the #NoDAPL movement as it gained international attention, highlighting the environmental and cultural threats posed by the pipeline.

Key Takeaways:

• Water Rights and Sovereignty: The film underscores the interconnectedness of water, land, and Indigenous sovereignty. It demonstrates how the Dakota Access Pipeline threatens the sacred waters of the Standing Rock Sioux and their ability to exercise their treaty rights.
• Environmental Justice: DAPL exposes the disproportionate impact of environmental destruction on Indigenous communities. The film raises crucial questions about environmental justice and the need for equitable resource distribution.
• Indigenous Activism: “The Cherokee Word for Water” celebrates the power of Indigenous activism and community resistance. It showcases the strength and resilience of the Standing Rock Sioux and their allies in their fight for their land and water.

2. “Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World” (2017)

This documentary by Catherine Bainbridge reclaims the narratives of Indigenous musicians who shaped rock and roll, blues, country, jazz, and beyond. From the first American Indian rock and roll artist Charley Patton to the **influential ** Native American guitarist Jimi Hendrix, this film explores the diverse musical legacies of Indigenous artists and their impact on global music.

Key Takeaways:

• Hidden Histories: The documentary unveils the often-overlooked contributions of Indigenous musicians to American music, showcasing their talent, creativity, and influence on musical genres.
• Cultural Identity and Expression: The film explores how Indigenous artists have used music to express their cultural identity, navigate colonial legacies, and connect with their heritage.
• Contemporary Indigenous Music: “Rumble” also highlights contemporary Indigenous musicians who are carrying on this musical legacy, showcasing the vibrant and diverse landscape of Indigenous music today.

3. “Gather” (2020)

Directed by Stephanie Soechtig and Lisa Lax, this film chronicles the revitalization of Indigenous food systems in the United States. The film follows the stories of Indigenous chefs, farmers, and activists who are working to reclaim their cultural food practices, combat food insecurity in their communities, and preserve their traditions.

Key Takeaways:

• Food Sovereignty: “Gather” explores the concept of food sovereignty, which emphasizes Indigenous peoples’ right to control their own food systems and preserve their traditional food practices.
• Health and Well-being: The film demonstrates how access to healthy, culturally appropriate food is essential for the health and well-being of Indigenous communities.
• Environmental Sustainability: “Gather” highlights the connection between Indigenous food systems and environmental sustainability, showcasing how traditional food practices can contribute to a more sustainable future.

4. “There’s Something in the Water” (2019)

This powerful documentary by Ellen Page follows the journey of **Mi’kmaq activist ** **Dr. ** Elsie Leonard as she investigates the environmental crisis in her community. It sheds light on the ongoing water contamination and the disproportionate impact of environmental racism on Indigenous communities in Nova Scotia, Canada.

Key Takeaways:

• Environmental Racism: The film highlights the issue of environmental racism, the discriminatory practice of targeting Indigenous communities for polluting industries and toxic waste.
• Indigenous Health and Water: It emphasizes the critical link between clean water and Indigenous health, demonstrating how environmental contamination can have devastating health consequences for Indigenous communities.
• Indigenous Resistance: “There’s Something in the Water” showcases the resilience and determination of Indigenous activists who are fighting for their health and the environment.

5. “The Sundance Kid” (1969)

While not directly about Indigenous Peoples, “The Sundance Kid” is still worthy of inclusion as a powerful movie that showcases a complex and often misunderstood perspective of the era. The depiction of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid as outlaws reflects the changing political and social landscape of the American West. This film offers a nuanced exploration of Western mythology, highlighting both the romanticized and the grim realities of **life for many ** Indigenous people during this period.

Key Takeaways:

• Western Mythology: “The Sundance Kid” encourages viewers to consider the complexities of Western mythology and the often-simplified narratives surrounding outlaws vs. lawmen.
• Indigenous Perspectives: Through its depiction of the Sundance Kid and his interactions with Indigenous communities, the film offers a glimpse into the **diversity of ** Indigenous experiences in the American West.
• Historical Context: While not a documentary, “The Sundance Kid” provides valuable historical context and social commentary on the evolving dynamics of the American West.

FAQ

1. Why is it important to watch these American Indian documentaries?

Watching these documentaries can help you understand the complex realities of Indigenous peoples in the United States. They challenge stereotypes, provide a platform for diverse voices, and raise awareness about critical issues facing Indigenous communities.

2. What can I do after watching these documentaries?

After watching these films, engage further in the discourse around Indigenous issues. Support Indigenous organizations, donate to Indigenous causes, and learn more about Indigenous history and culture.

3. Where can I find these documentaries to watch?

These documentaries are available on streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Kanopy. You can also find them on streaming platforms like Tubi and Pluto TV.

Conclusion

These 5 documentaries offer powerful glimpses into the lives, histories, and struggles of American Indians. They expose injustices, celebrate cultural resilience, and encourage further exploration of Indigenous voices. By watching these films, we can gain deeper understanding, challenge biases, and become active allies in the fight for Indigenous rights and self-determination.

Further Exploration:

• National Museum of the American Indian
• American Indian Film Institute
• Native American Journalists Association

Remember: Supporting Indigenous voices and amplifying their stories is crucial. Watch these documentaries, share them with others, and contribute to a more informed and inclusive understanding of Indigenous histories and experiences.

5 Essential American Indian Documentaries to Watch Now

The stories of Indigenous peoples in the United States are complex, multifaceted, and often untold. Documentaries offer a powerful medium to explore these stories, providing vital insights into the history, culture, and resilience of American Indians. From powerful narratives of survival to explorations of contemporary issues, these films offer a window into a world often misunderstood and misrepresented.

This list highlights 5 essential American Indian documentaries that should be on everyone’s watchlist:

1. “The Cherokee Word for Water” (2014)

This powerful documentary by Heather Rae explores the devastating impact of the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) on the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and the broader fight for Indigenous water rights. The film follows the #NoDAPL movement as it gained international attention, highlighting the environmental and cultural threats posed by the pipeline.

Key Takeaways:

• Water Rights and Sovereignty: The film underscores the interconnectedness of water, land, and Indigenous sovereignty. It demonstrates how the Dakota Access Pipeline threatens the sacred waters of the Standing Rock Sioux and their ability to exercise their treaty rights.
• Environmental Justice: DAPL exposes the disproportionate impact of environmental destruction on Indigenous communities. The film raises crucial questions about environmental justice and the need for equitable resource distribution.
• Indigenous Activism: “The Cherokee Word for Water” celebrates the power of Indigenous activism and community resistance. It showcases the strength and resilience of the Standing Rock Sioux and their allies in their fight for their land and water.

2. “Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World” (2017)

This documentary by Catherine Bainbridge reclaims the narratives of Indigenous musicians who shaped rock and roll, blues, country, jazz, and beyond. From the first American Indian rock and roll artist Charley Patton to the **influential ** Native American guitarist Jimi Hendrix, this film explores the diverse musical legacies of Indigenous artists and their impact on global music.

Key Takeaways:

• Hidden Histories: The documentary unveils the often-overlooked contributions of Indigenous musicians to American music, showcasing their talent, creativity, and influence on musical genres.
• Cultural Identity and Expression: The film explores how Indigenous artists have used music to express their cultural identity, navigate colonial legacies, and connect with their heritage.
• Contemporary Indigenous Music: “Rumble” also highlights contemporary Indigenous musicians who are carrying on this musical legacy, showcasing the vibrant and diverse landscape of Indigenous music today.

3. “Gather” (2020)

Directed by Stephanie Soechtig and Lisa Lax, this film chronicles the revitalization of Indigenous food systems in the United States. The film follows the stories of Indigenous chefs, farmers, and activists who are working to reclaim their cultural food practices, combat food insecurity in their communities, and preserve their traditions.

Key Takeaways:

• Food Sovereignty: “Gather” explores the concept of food sovereignty, which emphasizes Indigenous peoples’ right to control their own food systems and preserve their traditional food practices.
• Health and Well-being: The film demonstrates how access to healthy, culturally appropriate food is essential for the health and well-being of Indigenous communities.
• Environmental Sustainability: “Gather” highlights the connection between Indigenous food systems and environmental sustainability, showcasing how traditional food practices can contribute to a more sustainable future.

4. “There’s Something in the Water” (2019)

This powerful documentary by Ellen Page follows the journey of **Mi’kmaq activist ** **Dr. ** Elsie Leonard as she investigates the environmental crisis in her community. It sheds light on the ongoing water contamination and the disproportionate impact of environmental racism on Indigenous communities in Nova Scotia, Canada.

Key Takeaways:

• Environmental Racism: The film highlights the issue of environmental racism, the discriminatory practice of targeting Indigenous communities for polluting industries and toxic waste.
• Indigenous Health and Water: It emphasizes the critical link between clean water and Indigenous health, demonstrating how environmental contamination can have devastating health consequences for Indigenous communities.
• Indigenous Resistance: “There’s Something in the Water” showcases the resilience and determination of Indigenous activists who are fighting for their health and the environment.

5. “The Sundance Kid” (1969)

While not directly about Indigenous Peoples, “The Sundance Kid” is still worthy of inclusion as a powerful movie that showcases a complex and often misunderstood perspective of the era. The depiction of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid as outlaws reflects the changing political and social landscape of the American West. This film offers a nuanced exploration of Western mythology, highlighting both the romanticized and the grim realities of **life for many ** Indigenous people during this period.

Key Takeaways:

• Western Mythology: “The Sundance Kid” encourages viewers to consider the complexities of Western mythology and the often-simplified narratives surrounding outlaws vs. lawmen.
• Indigenous Perspectives: Through its depiction of the Sundance Kid and his interactions with Indigenous communities, the film offers a glimpse into the **diversity of ** Indigenous experiences in the American West.
• Historical Context: While not a documentary, “The Sundance Kid” provides valuable historical context and social commentary on the evolving dynamics of the American West.

FAQ

1. Why is it important to watch these American Indian documentaries?

Watching these documentaries can help you understand the complex realities of Indigenous peoples in the United States. They challenge stereotypes, provide a platform for diverse voices, and raise awareness about critical issues facing Indigenous communities.

2. What can I do after watching these documentaries?

After watching these films, engage further in the discourse around Indigenous issues. Support Indigenous organizations, donate to Indigenous causes, and learn more about Indigenous history and culture.

3. Where can I find these documentaries to watch?

These documentaries are available on streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Kanopy. You can also find them on streaming platforms like Tubi and Pluto TV.

Conclusion

These 5 documentaries offer powerful glimpses into the lives, histories, and struggles of American Indians. They expose injustices, celebrate cultural resilience, and encourage further exploration of Indigenous voices. By watching these films, we can gain deeper understanding, challenge biases, and become active allies in the fight for Indigenous rights and self-determination.

Further Exploration:

• National Museum of the American Indian
• American Indian Film Institute
• Native American Journalists Association

Remember: Supporting Indigenous voices and amplifying their stories is crucial. Watch these documentaries, share them with others, and contribute to a more informed and inclusive understanding of Indigenous histories and experiences.

I hope this list of essential American Indian documentaries has sparked your interest and provided you with a starting point for exploring the rich and diverse history, culture, and experiences of Indigenous peoples in North America. These films offer a glimpse into the resilience, strength, and beauty of Native American communities, shedding light on the challenges they have faced and continue to face. As you delve deeper into these stories, remember that they are not just historical records but also powerful calls to action. We can all contribute to promoting understanding, respect, and justice for Indigenous peoples by engaging with their narratives, supporting Indigenous-led organizations, and advocating for their rights.

Moreover, these documentaries are just a small sample of the vast and growing body of work that is dedicated to showcasing the lives and experiences of Native Americans. There are many other incredible documentaries, films, and books available that offer diverse perspectives and explore a range of issues related to Indigenous communities. So, if you’re interested in learning more about Native American history, culture, and contemporary issues, I encourage you to continue exploring these resources. Take the time to learn about the specific tribes and nations that reside in your local area. Engage with Indigenous artists, writers, and activists to understand their perspectives and support their work. Your efforts to learn and engage can make a real difference in promoting the voices of Indigenous peoples and creating a more just and equitable society for all.

Remember, the fight for Indigenous rights is an ongoing struggle, and we all have a role to play in supporting the work of Indigenous communities. By watching these documentaries and engaging with Indigenous voices, we can contribute to fostering understanding, respect, and justice for Native Americans. Thank you for joining me on this journey of learning and discovery. Let’s continue to amplify the stories of Indigenous peoples and advocate for their rights and well-being.