Watch The Mayors of Shiprock

The Mayors of Shiprock is a 2017 documentary film directed by Ramona Emerson. It follows the story of three young men from the Navajo Nation who find themselves in a unique position of leadership as they work to improve their community in Shiprock, New Mexico. The film begins with introductions of the main characters: Brandon, a recent high school graduate and father of two; Steven, a community college student and aspiring politician; and Ty, a talented musician and college dropout. The three young men are all members of the Shiprock Chapter, a subdivision of the Navajo Nation government, and are elected as the chapter's new leadership.

As they begin their term, the new mayors face a number of challenges. One of the biggest is the lack of economic opportunities in their community. Shiprock is a small town located in a remote region of New Mexico, and many young people are forced to leave in search of work. The mayors realize that they need to create jobs in Shiprock if they want to keep people from leaving.

The film documents the mayors' efforts to bring new businesses to Shiprock. They work tirelessly to attract investors and promote the town's unique cultural heritage. One of their biggest projects is the establishment of a new business park, where entrepreneurs can open shops and offices. They also work to support local artisans, helping them to sell their products and keep traditional crafts alive.

In addition to economic issues, the mayors also tackle social and environmental problems in Shiprock. They organize community events and clean-up campaigns, aiming to build a sense of pride and unity in the town. They also work to improve access to healthcare and education, recognizing that these are key factors in ensuring a better future for Shiprock's residents.

Throughout the documentary, the mayors face many obstacles, both internal and external. They struggle with their own personal challenges, such as addiction and family emergencies. They also face opposition from outside forces, including the Navajo Nation government and the federal government. Despite these setbacks, however, they remain steadfast in their mission to improve their community.

The Mayors of Shiprock is a powerful and inspiring film that shines a light on the struggles and triumphs of young people fighting to improve their community. It offers a rare glimpse into the world of Navajo politics and culture, and highlights the unique challenges facing indigenous communities in the United States. The film is a testament to the power of youth leadership, and a call to action for all those who believe in the importance of community-building and social justice.

The Mayors of Shiprock is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 56 minutes.