This documentary started as a story about Chief and myself reconnecting. Our friendship had endured the time that had passed. It was a very overwhelming feeling when I discovered that I was right in believing in him. He had surpassed all of my expectations. He inspires me every day. Chief’s story is powerful because he has spent his life trying to implement cultural programs for Native people in prison. He has had support from amazing advocates Native and non-Native. We are presenting information from advocates, attorneys, prisoners, researchers, Tribal Elders, heads of tribal government, family, organizers, and program coordinators. Chief’s network is endless and he has built it all from prison. So many people have said, “He has done all of this from the inside, I wonder what he could accomplish from the outside?” We will be sharing an amazing twist of fate as well. Life without has turned into life within, and one day soon, the gates to freedom will be opening.

Reservation Redemption is the story of how Native culture is imperative to Native families. I have learned without the connection of knowing where you come from and why the culture is so important, it is easy to lose one’s way in life. The interviews and footage from this documentary will show Chief’s story, how he got there as a Native kid who was lost, the redemption in his life as he found his culture, and how it motivated him. We will hear about the experiences of other people connected to his story. We will also focus on the Native American healing aspect and spiritual healing from a Native American perspective. I have interviewed Natives from several different tribes, and experts in their fields, that show why so many Native people end up incarcerated, how so many people have been disconnected from their culture, and why. This film will further emphasize the important role of spiritual healing from a Native American perspective.