Reclaiming Sacred Tobacco features American Indian Minnesotans discussing traditional tobacco practices, and how the commercial tobacco industry corrupted those practices into harmful behaviors like cigarette smoking. In Minnesotatoday, 59 percent of American Indians smoke, compared to 14 percent of the general population. Reclaiming Sacred Tobacco shows how restoring traditional ways can move people away from cigarette smoking and toward healthier living.
Accepting the award was Dakota/Diné producer Leya Hale of Twin Cities PBS, who directed the film with guidance from Anishinaabe and Dakota elders. “This project was unique, because it looks at the tobacco issue from within American Indian communities, rather than outside,” said Hale. “We are so grateful to the dozens of participants who agreed to be interviewed and share their stories with us.”
The film is informing diverse audiences about the differences between traditional and commercial tobacco use. American Indian health advocates are using it in innovative ways, including showing it in clinic waiting rooms on tribal lands. Additionally, it has been broadcast on public television stations around the state, and continues to be screened at Native film festivals in Minnesota and around the country, including the national American Indian Film Festival in San Francisco, where it was nominated for Best Public Service film last year.
“We are very proud of this project, which is one of several collaborations supporting Minnesota tribes as they work to undo the tobacco industry’s harms and improve health,” said David J. Willoughby, Chief Executive Officer at ClearWay Minnesota. “Reclaiming is helping American Indian advocates, but it’s also educating non-Native Minnesotans about the importance of understanding and respecting Native ways.”