Particularly timely in 2004, as we watch native resistance to U.S. military power in Iraq, this film is also a valuable historical documentary of a movement that all Americans can learn from and be proud of. The equal status of Native American women in decision-making and in economic life is also something for all Americans to strive for.
Politics aside, the story of Mary Crow Dog is personally engaging and the courage of both the Native American activists and Mary's family are inspiring. Humorous, lively, spiritual, passionate, the Native American characters are wonderfully acted, in all their diversity. The non-natives seem stereotyped--this is a film with a message.
I would use this film in diversity discussion groups for all ages. It would be particularly resonant for middle- and high-school kids as it provides models of diverse personal strengths and how they come together in the pursuit of one goal.
Politics aside, the story of Mary Crow Dog is personally engaging and the courage of both the Native American activists and Mary's family are inspiring. Humorous, lively, spiritual, passionate, the Native American characters are wonderfully acted, in all their diversity. The non-natives seem stereotyped--this is a film with a message.
I would use this film in diversity discussion groups for all ages. It would be particularly resonant for middle- and high-school kids as it provides models of diverse personal strengths and how they come together in the pursuit of one goal.