| THE
EVOLUTION In 2003 I acquired the
copyrights to Brocket 99 from the man who created the tape. Back then I knew little about
the impact of the parody. I didn't realize that this piece of audio would make any
difference to the people who lived in Brocket, or to Natives in general. And I certainly
didn't realize that I would change my opinions about it.
I still love Brocket 99. It was, and still is, a fantastic work
of comedy. And it correctly stereotypes a few in the Native community. Even some
Natives will freely admit that Brocket 99 is accurate to an extent. This is evident in the
recent documentary film made about Brocket 99. But what of it? The fact is that the
majority of Natives do not fit the stereotype. I don't care what you see when you walk out
of your door. If you want to know the truth, get involved. Too many adults still love to
"play indian" with this typecast. It is time to move on. It's time for debate
and a real understanding of these wonderful, proud people, who have dealt with more than
enough for far too long!
I first started this site to celebrate a great parody about
radio. I worked in radio for several years. I get the inside jokes about reading live
spots and not having the space to get to the post. I understand small stations that have
limited budgets, guests that you interview via taped responses, and live remotes.
I continue this site so that we all can sit at the table together
and communicate. I truly believe that we can laugh at the stereotypes while at the same
time begin the healing. Otherwise we may never talk at all. It's through a controversy
like Brocket 99 that the conversation and understanding can begin. |