Independent Lens Season 15 Episode 4 Young Lakota

Young Lakota is an episode of Independent Lens season 15 that follows three young people from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota as they grapple with the complexities of contemporary Native American life. Sunny Clifford, a young mother, becomes an activist when she learns that the local government plans to kill a herd of wild horses. Her ally in the fight is a charismatic Lakota lawyer, but their efforts to protect the horses eventually lead them to confront deeper issues of sovereignty and tribal politics.

Meanwhile, newcomer Brandon Ferguson is a young Lakota boy who is struggling to find his place in the community. He is a devout Christian and wants to pursue a career in the military, but he must reconcile his faith and his aspirations with his identity as a Native American.

Completing the trio is her former boyfriend Cody, who is a traditional Lakota who has returned to the reservation after studying at a Christian college. He is drawn to the spiritual practices and traditions of his people, including the Sun Dance ceremony, but faces resistance from his family and community.

As Sunny, Brandon, and Cody struggle to find their place in the world, they are forced to confront the challenges facing their community, including the legacy of colonialism, poverty, and the ongoing struggle for Native American sovereignty. Through their stories, viewers are invited to witness the resilience and perseverance of the Lakota people as they navigate the complexities of contemporary life while remaining rooted in their cultural heritage.

Overall, Young Lakota is a powerful and thought-provoking episode of Independent Lens season 15 that explores the complexities of contemporary Native American life through the experiences of three young people. It raises important questions about identity, tradition, and sovereignty, while at the same time offering a portrait of a resilient and resourceful people who continue to draw strength from their cultural heritage in the face of ongoing challenges.