Established by the Red Nation Celebration Institute in 2016, the Chief Dan George Award honors the enduring legacy of Chief Dan George – celebrating his contributions to Indigenous representation, environmental justice, cultural leadership, and the cinematic arts.
In 1970, Chief Dan George made history as the first Native American to be nominated for an Academy Award for his powerful performance in Little Big Man.
Previously known as the Humanitarian Award, this distinguished honor was renamed to recognize Chief Dan George’s profound impact on both film and advocacy, celebrating his contributions to Indigenous representation and environmental stewardship.
Each year, Red Nation International Film Festival Honors individuals with the ‘The Chief Dan George Award’ for their contributions to Environmental Justice. The Prestigious Award is presented at RNCI Red Nation Awards held during RNCI Red Nation International Film Festival in the month of November.
The Chief Dan George Award is endorsed by the George Family.
John Carlos Frey (The Snake and The Whale) 2025
Rebecca Harrell Tickell (Kiss The Ground) 2020
Josh Tickell (Kiss The Ground) 2020
Les Lo Baugh Jr 2019
Dr Jane Goodall 2010
Elevating Native and Indigenous Voices Through Storytelling
Red Nation International Film Festival (RNIFF) is the largest Native & Indigenous Film Festival in the U.S. and worldwide!
The first of its kind in Los Angeles.
