March’s Point – Background Information about the film

http://marchpointmovie.com/?page_id=13

This page describes the crew and story behind March’s Point Documentary made by three 15 year old boys from the Swinomish Indian Tribe in Washington. The film takes us through their journey of bringing awareness about the oil refineries in their community and how they come to find themselves.

There is also some background discussion about how Native Americans are stereotyped. A Native actor states: “Native Americans are usually portrayed as violent, drunk or the all- knowing sage. We are not seen as doctors, lawyers or businessmen. The message this sends to Native American children is that there is no place for us in modern society, that we are an antiquated culture.” Native Lens founded Longhouse Media to bring digital media training to Native youth in rural and urban settings.

In terms of this documentary, I think digital media is an excellent way to bring awareness to critical issues that Indigenous peoples face. I also think that the fact that young adults can create a film like this is a wonderful gateway to many other forms of expression and information for others. I can’t wait to watch the full film!

Alicia