Native American Characters Overview

Dene Oxendene: Aspiring filmmaker receiving a $6,000 grant for a documentary on Native Americans in Oakland; grapples with family issues as his Uncle Lucas suffers from liver cirrhosis.
Uncle Lucas: Dene’s uncle who suffers from cirrhosis and leaves behind video ideas and scripts.
Edwin Black: A writer with a degree in Comparative Literature, faces writer's block and depression; struggles with his identity and family issues while living with his mother.
Tony Loneman: Lives with his grandmother, rides his bicycle around Oakland, and has fetal alcohol syndrome; previously enjoyed dancing in Native regalia.
Octavio: Drug dealer associated with Tony, directing him on criminal tasks.

Lens: Represents perspective and can refer both to a part of a camera and a metaphorical way to view the world.
Urban Indians: Native Americans residing in urban environments, often facing cultural disconnection.
Powwow: A traditional Native American gathering for dancing, singing, and renewing friendships, emphasizing community and culture.
AIM (American Indian Movement): A civil rights organization focused on indigenous rights and social justice issues.

Richard Oakes: Native activist known for orchestrating the 1969 Occupation of Alcatraz as a stand against historical injustices faced by Native Americans.
Alcatraz Island: Historically significant as both a site of exile for the Sioux and a maximum security prison, it became a focal point for Native activism in the late 20th century.
Gathering of Nations: The largest powwow in the U.S., held annually in Albuquerque, showcasing Native culture and unity.

Manhattan Island Purchase: Highlighting the historical transaction viewed as exploitative, emphasizing the themes of dispossession.
Gertrude Stein: A noted author whose quotation, "There is no there there," reflects disconnection from cultural roots; her childhood experiences inform the narrative of change in Oakland.

Dene's Perspective: Critiques the portrayal of Native Americans in media as overly sad and stereotypical, aiming for a more nuanced narrative.
Jacquie Red Feather: Expresses resilience in difficult circumstances, highlighting themes of survival and hope amid adversity.
Harvey: Reflects a darker moment in Jacquie’s life and the lasting impacts of trauma during the Alcatraz occupation.

The Drome: Term used by Tony to describe his facial appearance caused by fetal alcohol syndrome, contributing to discussions of identity and perception.
Bill Davis: Edwin's mom's boyfriend, serving as a connection to themes of technology's impact on social behavior and personal history.
Maxine: Represents nurturing through her relationship with Tony, fostering a connection to literature and learning.