Lily Gladstone, star of “Killers of the Flower Moon,” is not just an Oscar nominee, but also a passionate advocate for the Indigenous community. In a recent panel conversation at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, she spoke out against the harmful depictions and references to Indians in the media, specifically mentioning the Kansas City Chiefs and their controversial Tomahawk chop.
Gladstone, who is of Siksikaitsitapi and Niimiipuu heritage, believes that both teams are accountable for their portrayal of Native Americans. She explains, “The 49ers are based on the California Gold Rush, which was an incredibly brutal time for California Indians. And then the Chiefs… It’s not the name that bothers me. It’s hearing that damn Tomahawk chop. Every time, it’s a stark reminder of what Hollywood has done to us.”
As she embraces her historic Oscar nomination, Gladstone hopes to pave the way for more actors from the Indigenous community. She recognizes the power of her platform and aims to bring attention to the commodification and misrepresentation of Native American culture in mainstream media.
Lily Gladstone as Mollie Burkhart, Leonardo DiCaprio as Ernest Burkhart (©Apple TV/Courtesy Everett Collection)
Gladstone’s role in “Killers of the Flower Moon” is significant not only for her personal achievement but also for the portrayal of Osage tribe members who were murdered under suspicious circumstances in the 1920s. The film, directed by Martin Scorsese, received 10 Oscar nominations, including Best Picture.
As the first Native American woman to be nominated for Best Actress at the Academy Awards, Gladstone carries a tremendous responsibility. However, she also recognizes the importance of celebrating this achievement without constantly reminding the Osage community of their suffering.
Lily Gladstone (Photographed by Art Streiber at the Hotel Bel Air on January 6, 2024 for Variety. Art Streiber for Variety)
Gladstone’s career milestone aligns with the loss of culture and innocence experienced by the Osage Tribe. She honors the spirits of those who lived through the trauma and shares this momentous occasion with members of the Osage community.
As Gladstone prepares for the Oscars, she not only brings her parents to the ceremony but also the collective pride of the Indigenous community. Together, they celebrate this achievement and the progress it represents.
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