Lead the Way

Amid commercialism that dishonors ancient medicine, and Native people abusing our own plant at a higher rate than anyone, thirty-six Native youth set out to learn traditions with tobacco. The documentary was funded by TUPE (Tobacco Use Prevention Education) for American Indian Education Cetnters in California. Student’s intimate reflections on culture and identity unfold with art and values, depicting a personal journey into leadership. Connections with Earth, stewardship and community are packed into this short video that honors a theme of Friends Don’t Let Friends Abuse the Medicine.