Every November we celebrate Native American Heritage Month. From the Klamath — the biggest dam removal and river restoration project in history — to the Penobscot, Elwha, Snake, and so many more — we honor the leadership of Tribal Nations and Indigenous communities leading the way for clean water and healthy rivers nationwide.
Below is a list of films and blog posts that highlight Indigenous stories and the leadership of Tribal Nations.
Tsegi Canyon
In far Northern Arizona on the Navajo Nation lies an archaeologically rich canyon, called Tsegi. Steeped in a rich cultural history tucked into the alcoves of these steep sandstone walls, this beautiful and remote canyon is home to a handful of Navajo ranching families who have, for generations, run cattle, sheep, and horses on the lush fertile grasses of the canyon floor.
Guardians of the River
In this film by American Rivers and Swiftwater Films, Indigenous leaders share why removing four dams to restore a healthy Klamath River is critical for clean water, food sovereignty and justice.
Reconnecting the Past: A Blackfeet Man Floats the Blackfoot River
In a guest blog, Tyrel Fenner, a Blackfeet and Little Shell Chippewa tribal member from Babb, Montana, tells his story of floating down the Blackfoot River.
Honoring Indigenous leadership in river protection
If we are to heal our relationship with rivers, if we are to confront the climate crisis and adapt to its on-going impacts, the traditional ecological knowledge and perspective held by Indigenous People is essential.
Indigenous Women’s Leadership Network Gets on the River
On an early morning in late summer, with already a hint of fall in the air, the inaugural Indigenous Women’s Leadership Network (IWLN) river trip pulled away from the Sand Island launch on the San Juan River in southern Utah, along the border of the Navajo Nation.
Avanyu – Protecting the Rio Grande
As we gear up to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act in 2018, our film Avanyu highlights what New Mexico’s Wild and Scenic Rio Grande means to one Tesuque Pueblo family.
