Our Fires Still Burn: The Native American Experience

Gr 6 Up—The enduring struggle for Native Americans to regain spiritual and tribal ways dominates this one-hour documentary situated on the Isabela Indian Reservation in Michigan. Saginaw Chippewa leaders describe their contemporary successes and struggles in light of their ancestors' traumatic history. Living between two worlds is the norm for this community; balancing Euro-American culture and traditional Native American worldviews. Fourteen chapters describe today's opportunities for Indian youth in light of history. The central sections involving elders and keeping the sacred fire are most informative relative to spiritual awareness. As a result of the devastating cultural effects of Indian boarding schools, communities are still seeking ways to reclaim their ancestral ways. Renewed vigor in traditional language and teachings are helped by devoted leaders. Saginaw Chippewa represent a pan-Indian trend of forgiveness and spiritual resurgence. Hope for a healthier future is the focus, grounded in the ancient wisdom that survives despite aggressive federal policies to "Kill the Indian, Save the Man." Two films about the boarding school movement are Our Spirits Don't Speak English (Rich-Heape Films, 2008) and Taken From My Home: Indian Boarding Schools (Fascinating Learning Factory, 2009), both more thorough regarding that part of history and its impact on today's Native life.—Robin Levin, Ft. Washakie School/Community Library, WY