Urban Rez explores the controversial legacy & modern-day effects of the US Government’s assimilation policy to dismantle the Indian Reservation system by relocating American Indians from their rural homelands to urban areas. Stories from many tribal nations speak to the challenges of maintaining one’s own culture within the dominant society.
Urban Rez explores the repercussions of the Urban Relocation Program (1952-1973), the greatest voluntary upheaval of Native Americans during the 20th century. During the documentary, dozens of American Indians representing tribal groups from across the West recall their first-hand experiences with relocation, including the early hardships, struggles with isolation and racism.
Interviewees also speak about the challenges of maintaining one’s own tribal traditions — from language to hunting — while assimilating into the larger society. Actor, musician and Oglala Lakota member Moses Brings Plenty narrates this insightful film about this seldom-told chapter in American history.