Gibson gives back

Advance ‘Apocalypto' showing to aid Indian groups, Mayans"This event provides an opportunity to support a number of organizations who are doing great work," Bill Anoatubby, governor of the Chickasaw Nation, said in a release. "We are enjoying success in our business ventures, and we feel it is very important to express our appreciation to the community in a meaningful way."

Proceeds from the special screening will go to the Mayan people of Mexico, the Oklahoma Chapter of the Lupus Foundation of America Inc., Indian Health Care Resource Center of Tulsa and Oklahoma City Indian Clinic.

Also of benefit to American Indians: the casting of indigenous actors.

"It is very important to note that Mr. Gibson has gone to great lengths to cast indigenous people in this film," Anoatubby said. "This not only helps make the film more realistic, it serves as an inspiration to Native American actors who aspire to perform relevant roles in the film industry."