National Native American Heritage Month celebrated nationwide last November
The United States collectively celebrated National Native American Heritage Month last November.
The Native American Club at Carl Albert State College had celebrations that included visits from Choctaw historians, artists and stickball players.
The Native American Club members took a trip to Durant and saw a presentation of “Te Ata,” which is a true story about Mary Thompson Fisher. She was a famous actress and Native American storyteller.
With the popularity of Native shows, movies and actors, Rose State College in Midwest City had a panel discussion with Native creatives working in the industry as one of its November events. It was called “Reel NDNS Indigenous Representation in Media and Film.” Dennis Knifechief was the moderator.
Panel members included Sierra Revis (Euchee), Bronnson Tre Harjo (Seminole), Brittany Bendabout and Ryker Sixkiller (both Cherokee).
Each panelist described the work they have been doing and training they have had.
Revis, who works in the art department of the show “Reservation Dogs,” said it is hard work, especially on a film.
“Give (it) your all and take a step back,” Revis said.
“Many days you may work 14 hours, but it’s worth it because now we see us represented for who we are,” Bendabout said.
“When you write your story, make sure it is all accurate,” Harjo said.
“It’s important that we now have control of our own stories,” Sixkiller said.
The audience in attendance at “Reel NDNS Indigenous Representation in Media and Film” wanted to know who inspired the panelists. Bendabout said it her mom was a great influence on her, while Harjo said his brother Sterlin inspired him as well as his family and ceremonial grounds.”