POV Season 10 Episode 7 In Whose Honor?

In Whose Honor? is the seventh episode of season 10 of POV. This episode takes a closer look at the issue of cultural appropriation in America and its impact on Native American communities.

The episode centers around Charlene Teters, a Native American activist and artist who became a voice for her community in the fight against cultural appropriation. In 1990, Teters attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and was horrified to see the school’s mascot, Chief Illiniwek, dressed in a fake headdress and performing stereotypical Native American dances at every sporting event. Teters saw this as a blatant act of cultural appropriation and a form of racism that perpetuated harmful stereotypes about Native Americans.

Teters, along with other Native American students and activists, organized protests and demonstrations against the use of Chief Illiniwek as the school’s mascot. The protests gained national attention and sparked a larger conversation about the issue of cultural appropriation and its impact on marginalized communities. Teters became a leading voice in this movement, appearing on national news programs and giving speeches about the importance of respecting Native American cultures and traditions.

In the episode, we hear from Teters herself as she reflects on her experiences as an activist and artist. We also hear from other activists, educators, and scholars who weigh in on the issue of cultural appropriation. They discuss the ways in which Native American cultures have been commodified and exploited for profit, and how this has led to the erasure of Native American voices and histories.

The episode also explores the history of Native American mascots in sports. We learn about the origins of these mascots and the ways in which they have been used to perpetuate harmful stereotypes about Native Americans. We hear from Native American activists who have fought against these mascots and have successfully had them removed from schools and sports teams.

Throughout the episode, we are presented with different perspectives on the issue of cultural appropriation. Some argue that it is a form of free speech and expression, while others argue that it is a form of exploitation and racism. The episode encourages viewers to consider the ways in which they personally engage with Native American cultures and to reflect on their own actions and beliefs.

Overall, In Whose Honor? is a thought-provoking and insightful look at the issue of cultural appropriation in America. It provides a platform for Native American voices to be heard and encourages viewers to think critically about the ways in which they engage with cultures that are not their own.