We just had this discussion in class today looking at the images of the Oka Crisis, which you remembered from your History 30 class once you saw the images of the vehicles blocking the road, comparing the event to what’s currently happening today in North Dakota on First Nation’s territory. Oka happened in 1990 and divided the nation while the North Dakota event looks strikingly similar and is happening in an era of social media where people have a much stronger way of voicing outrage and showing individual support.

Below is a collection of posts from different social media accounts related to yesterday’6-hour long police raid on the peaceful protesters.

In particular is Chris Hemsworth’s photo from the set of his new Thor movie. Ironically, he also discusses feeling guilty/sorry for wearing a “Native American” costume last year at a “Lone Rangers Party”. We also talked today in class about the difference between Cultural Appropriation and Cultural Appreciation. How could we fit both today’s discussion topics into one Instagram post by a Hollywood actor??

Standing with those who are fighting to protect their sacred land and water. #nodapl #waterislife #mniwiconi @taikawaititi I would also like to take this opportunity to raise something that has been bothering me for sometime. Last New Year’s Eve I was at a “Lone Ranger” themed party where some of us, myself included, wore the traditional dress of First Nations people. I was stupidly unaware of the offence this may have caused and the sensitivity around this issue. I sincerely and unreservedly apologise to all First Nations people for this thoughtless action. I now appreciate that there is a great need for a deeper understanding of the complex and extensive issues facing indigenous communities. I hope that in highlighting my own ignorance I can help in some small way.

A photo posted by Chris Hemsworth (@chrishemsworth) on Oct 27, 2016 at 6:49pm PDT

#NoDAPL #standwithstandingrock #waterislife

A photo posted by Coastal Bend (@coastalbendforbernie) on Oct 28, 2016 at 7:19pm PDT