‘Indigenize’ @ Columbia University

After several premieres from Santa Fe, NM to Oxford, UK ‘Indigenize the Plate’ has started its formal tour with a screening at Columbia University. We were welcomed to campus by our hosts from the Native American Council - a student-led organization, which creates community for the Indigenous student population. The film was attended by members of the Council, friends and allies, as well as members of the general public. It was also attended by the film’s Producer and Host Natalie Benally, Director Ernie Zahn, and Composer Renata Yazzie. The latter of whom is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in the study of ethnomusicology at Columbia’s music department. After the screening Natalie, Ernie, and Renata answered questions from the audience - and delved into the themes and content of the film. At the close of the event, Renata performed a traditionally rooted piece of music on the piano after discussing how her background as a musicologist informs her scoring process.

The film’s composer Renata Yazzie (right) discussing her scoring process. Natalie Benally (left onscreen) joining via zoom.

This is the first screening event that included three primary creative members of the production and was a great opportunity to discuss distinctive but connected aspects of the making of the film. This inspired discussion about the creation process from a practical sense but also expanded into conversation about sustainability as it pertains to tradition, personal identity, expression, and relation to the natural ecology that has shaped our cultures.

The filmmakers, members of NAC, and other attendees joined in discussion after the event ended.

This was an auspicious first screening for the film’s formal tour. It gave us at Tse’Nato’ a lot of insight as to what parts of the film most connect with people. A major theme in the film revolves around the idea of maintaining connection to ancestral homes and lands while pursuing a sustainable livelihood outside of that context. An experience Natalie discusses in detail in the film and that members of the audience also resonated with.

When we consider this tour’s impact, it’s about exploring how the film itself can be vehicle for agency. Sometimes that looks like kicking off important conversations. It’s also a chance to connect and explore what actions steps can take place. We’re proud to see that both of those things took place at this first event and we look forward to what further impact may happen with each subsequent event.

If you want to learn more about the film, its tour, and get involved please check out the project’s page: linked here.

AND If you’d like to bring ‘Indigenize the Plate’ to your community, we’d love to organize a screening together!