Chris Eyre on Native youth

A Youth Renaissance for Native Americans

Filmmaker Chris Eyre says Native pride will embolden the next generation of first Americans

By Chris EyreToday, it is inspiring to see the number of strong Native American youth eager to learn more of our ancient traditions and cultures from the elders, who are more than happy to share with those who respect them. The youth renaissance is rooted, I think, in the elders’ tenacity, 1970s activism and a backlash against the mass media’s depiction of Native Americans.

The dismal portrayal of Native reservations is inaccurate and harmful. The media focus solely on poverty and the cycle of oppression. What most outsiders don’t see is the laughter, love, smiles, constant joking and humor and the unbreakable strength of the tribal spirit that is there. Some reservations are strongholds of community, serving the needs of their people without economic gain but with traditions leading the way. My hope is that Native evolution will be driven by a reinforced traditionalism passed down from one to another.Comment:  The dismal portrayal of Natives on and off reservations is inaccurate and harmful.

This:The media focus solely on poverty and the cycle of oppression. What most outsiders don’t see is the laughter, love, smiles, constant joking and humor and the unbreakable strength of the tribal spirit that is there.is exactly why I criticize the SCALPED comic-book series. As well as articles and stories that portray reservations as unrelenting hellholes.

If the media's mistakes and stereotypes are causing a youth renaissance, it's the only good thing about them. I like the thought of Native youngsters fighting back against the prevailing view of Indians. It means they're mad as hell and not going to take it anymore. They're not going to invent excuses for racism like (some of) their elders have.

For more on Chris Eyre, see Eyre Films Native Century Pilot and Hollywood Puts Natives "in a Box."

Below:  "Reservations "are strongholds of community," says Chris Eyre. (Emily Schiffer)