The documentary Idaho’s Forgotten War will be shown at the David Thompson High School theatre Wednesday, November 30 at 7 p.m.
This epic film recounts the courageous battle a small group of Kootenay Indians in the Northern part of Idaho who were denied government assistance until events recounted in the film unfolded in 1974.
The people of this tribe had refused to relocate to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe in Montana in the mid-1800s, as doing so would have taken them away from their seasonal hunting and gathering grounds.
Since then, many of the children of this community were apprehended by the state and sent to residential schools throughout United States.
However, one woman returned home at her father’s request to save their community from extinction.
When she arrived, Amy Trice found her community in extremely deplorable conditions.
Trice became chairwoman of the small community and after numerous letters and phone calls to Washington D.C. and the Bureau of Indian Affairs she became frustrated and declared war on the United States.
Armed only with a fly swatter, she summoned some young prestigious warriors from the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe and neighbouring tribes for help.
All she asked in exchange was there be no bloodshed, no drugs or alcohol.
Relying deeply on her cultural traditions and beliefs, this was granted and today the Kutenai Tribe of Idaho is a strong, thriving 141-member sovereign tribe.
Earlier this year Russell Means, former American Indian Movement activist and participant in this war, along with Trice and Margaret Friedlander were invited talk about their experiences during a viewing of the Idaho’s Forgotten War documentary in Pablo, Montana.
Friedlander who was contacted by Trice to help with the war in 1974 will also be available at the November 30 film presentation to answer questions. The film’s director Sonya Rosario will also be on hand.
“Amy is not just a role model for little Indian girls but a role model for women in Idaho and across the country,” says Rosario.
Ktunaxa youth selected to speak about their journeys to achieve their goals will also be available during this event.
The purpose of this film presentation is to encourage youth to follow their dreams in a healthy, positive manner.
Admission is by donation and funds will go towards the Aboriginal Youth: Rotary Interac.
