11 Important Documentaries About Native Americans

Native American history and culture have been poorly represented in mainstream media, often stereotyped and distorted. However, as the demand for more diverse and inclusive stories increases, there has been a rise in documentaries that explore the complex and rich history of Native Americans.

These powerful stories not only celebrate the resilience and heritage of Native Americans but also shed light on their struggles, past and present. In this blog post, we will introduce you to some of the best documentaries that capture different aspects of Native American life and history.

1. Sister Rising (2020)

Sister Rising is an intimate and riveting documentary that showcases a powerful milestone in the history of Native American women. The film follows a group of Indigenous women who lead a movement to heal from the trauma of sexual violence in their communities and reclaim their power through dance.

Filmed over the course of a year, Sister Rising explores the deep connection between dance, healing, and cultural revitalization and highlights the challenges that Indigenous women face in their daily lives.

Sister Rising on Factual America

2. Imagining the Indian (2021)

Imagining the Indian is a thought-provoking documentary that examines how the Hollywood film industry has shaped the representation of Native Americans in popular culture.

Through interviews with Native filmmakers, scholars, and activists, the film delves into the history of Hollywood's misrepresentations and stereotypes and addresses the power that media has in shaping public opinion. Imagining the Indian is an eye-opening film that exposes the long-standing issues of cultural appropriation and the importance of Native American voices in storytelling.

Imagining the Indian on Factual America

3. Without a Whisper (2021)

Without a Whisper tells the untold story of how Native American women have been at the forefront of social justice and environmental activism for centuries. The film pays homage to the story of Mohawk Clan Mother, Katsi Cook, and her lifelong work to protect and advocate for the health of Indigenous women, children, and the environment.

Without a Whisper is a powerful documentary that shines a light on the lesser-known history of women's leadership in Native American communities and represents the strength, resilience, and wisdom of Indigenous women throughout history.

Without a Whisper on PBS

4. Mankiller (2017)

Mankiller is a comprehensive film that chronicles the life of Wilma Mankiller, the first female chief of the Cherokee Nation. The documentary explores Mankiller's life journey from growing up in rural Oklahoma to becoming a symbol of hope and change for the Cherokee Nation.

Through archival footage and interviews with family and colleagues, Mankiller illustrates how Mankiller's leadership transformed the Cherokee Nation and paved the way for Indigenous people to seek greater sovereignty and self-determination.

👉 Watch Mankiller on Amazon Prime

5. Words From a Bear (2019)

Words From a Bear is a biographical documentary that delves into the life and work of Pulitzer Prize-winning author N. Scott Momaday. The film reveals how Momaday's writing has been deeply influenced by his Kiowa Nation heritage and incorporates his own artistic style to reflect the history and soul of Native American culture.

Words From a Bear offers a captivating look into the mind of one of the most important voices in contemporary Native literature.

Words From a Bear on IMDb

6. Keep Talking (2017)

"Keep Talking" is a documentary about the endangered Alutiiq language. In the documentary, we follow the Alutiiq tribe of Alaska as they work to revive their dying language.

This film is an insightful and intimate look into the history and culture of the Alutiiq people. "Keep Talking" offers viewers a unique perspective on the role of language in Native American culture.

Keep Talking on IMDb

7. Reel Injun: On the Trail of the Hollywood Indian (2009)

"Reel Injun" explores the Hollywood portrayal of Native Americans throughout the years. This award-winning documentary also explores the impact Hollywood has had on the way that Native Americans see themselves today.

The movie features interviews with Native American actors and filmmakers who provide their own perspectives on how Hollywood impacts their culture. This documentary is not only educational, but it is also entertaining, and a must-watch for all Native Americans.

👉 Watch Reel Injun: On the Trail of the Hollywood Indian on Amazon Prime

👉 Buy Reel Injun: On the Trail of the Hollywood Indian as DVD on Amazon

8. Allan Houser: Apache Legacy (2014)

"Allan Houser" is a documentary about the renowned Apache artist, Allan Houser. This documentary is a fascinating look into the life of a Native American artist who worked his way to the top of the art world.

The film chronicles Houser's journey from his childhood on the Apache reservation to his eventual success as an artist. "Allan Houser" is an inspiring story that will motivate viewers to pursue their dreams.

Allan Houser: Apache Legacy on IMDb

9. Code of Honor: Comanche Code Talkers of World War II (2013)

"Code of Honor" is a documentary about the heroic role of Native American Code Talkers during World War II. This jaw-dropping documentary is informative and exciting and tells the stories of the Navajo, Comanche, and Choctaw Code Talkers.

The film also provides a fascinating look at the Comanche culture, and is an excellent tribute to the contribution of Native Americans during World War II.

Code of Honor: Comanche Code Talkers of World War II on YouTube

10. Montana Mosaic: Indian Boarding Schools (2006)

"Montana Mosaic" is a poignant documentary that explores the trauma, abuse, and neglect that Native American children suffered in Indian boarding schools.

The film sheds light on the residential school system that was set up across the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries. This very personal film tells the stories of those who suffered through the system, and it is a sobering look at the history of Native Americans in the United States.

Montana Mosaic: Indian Boarding Schools on Sutori

11. Russell Means: Welcome to the Reservation (2011)

Russell Means was an American Indian activist, actor, and musician, who was a leading figure in the American Indian Movement. "Welcome to the Reservation" tells the story of his life and legacy.

The documentary explores Means' relationship with his family, his culture, and his activism. This documentary is an informative and heartwarming tribute to an indigenous hero.

Russell Means: Welcome to the Reservation on YouTube

Conclusion

Documentaries such as Sister Rising, Imagining the Indian, Without a Whisper, Mankiller, and Words From a Bear are essential to understand and appreciate the rich history, culture, and challenges that Native American communities face.

These films showcase powerful and authentic stories of resilience, wisdom, and leadership, and provide a window into a largely unknown world. Through these documentaries, we can learn, empathize, and appreciate the vibrancy and diversity of Native American culture.