Ernest M. Whiteman III

No One Ever Sees Indians: Native Americans in Media

“Are you watching closely?”

This presentation is loosely structured as a three-part magic act. Ernest discusses the many representations of Native Americans in media, how far back these depictions go, and how these representations inform audiences’ perceptions of Native peoples and issues today.

This presentation reflects the ideology of lived experience, ownership of culture versus the authorship of expertise of Native representation, and its reductive constructs. Ernest will show that what people know and see about Native Americans in the media has always been an illusion.

This presentation aligns with the Illinois America 250 Commission's theme “We the People.” This theme invites us to explore ideas of who has been included and who has been left out of the nation’s promise, as well as how people from all backgrounds have shaped and reshaped what it means to be part of “the people.” The Illinois America 250 Commission's goals are to uplift local stories, places, and programs; build pride; and showcase how Illinois brings the ideals of the Declaration of Independence to life.

Audience Recommendations

This presentation is primarily designed for adults and anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of how certain groups (in this case Native Americans) can be misrepresented in film. It may be of particular interest to media studies students or members of film societies and groups. 

While the presentation has been tailored for younger audiences before, please let Ernest know in advance as the presentation offers many complex ideas and historical information that might not be suited for children under 14 years of age.

Program Logistics

The presentation takes approximately 60-90 minutes depending on the level of audience interaction. Ernest asks for a lot of first-thought responses and interaction.

The host should provide a projector and screen or large television that are compatible with Ernest's MacBook Pro with an HDMI output. Any audio or video recording must be discussed with and approved in writing by Ernest Whiteman prior to the presentation.