Native American Women are Contesting Their Misrepresentation in Film
It's a sight not uncommon on the streets of Los Angeles.
A red carpet is rolled out in front of a theater, while cameramen hurriedly set up their equipment. Lights flash as actors smile and walk the length of carpet, the sun setting behind them.
It is the 23rd year of the Red Nation International Film Festival, an event founded and developed by Jonelle Romero, a Native American filmmaker and actress of Cheyenne, Dine, and Apache descent.
Though it features the usual trappings of a film festival, this two-week program is a statement. It features Native American-centric movies and actors, with more than 20 films directed and produced by Native American women.
"This year, we had 22 films directed by Native women, and had the same number last year, too," Romero said. "No other film festival is doing that, bringing in those numbers."...