First off, before I even discuss the show I’d like to say something. The simple fact that a Native was able to not only bring their vision to life on screen, but do it on a major streaming platform like Hulu is a win in itself. So, congratulations to Sterlin Harjo on creating the first and only television series where every writer, director and main character is Indigenous. It is truly nothing short of inspiring to your fellow Natives.

Now let’s get into it. I thought the show was overall really good. It was nice to see people on tv that you could actually identify with in terms of upbringing and identity. I myself grew up on a rez in Northern California. A lot of these episodes brought back tons of nostalgia from my childhood.

The actual crew of rez dogs was my favorite. Growing up on the rez, this was 100 percent us. Always breaking into things, causing trouble and just overall being a nuisance to the community. Sadly, the theme of death was also equally extremely relatable. I’ve been going to funerals and carrying my cousin’s caskets since I can remember. Most of these losses can be traced to alcohol and car wrecks or depression and suicide. The scene where you see Elora walk into their hangout area alone during the end of season one still gives me chills. As a Native I think we all knew what she was about to find. Having said that here’s my attempt to lighten the mood a little. I feel like whoever wrote and casted the reception area worker of the clinic needs an award. You honestly couldn’t do a better job. I’ve never met her in my life, yet I am almost certain she violates HIPPA laws on a daily basis. Finally, the story about Uncle Brownie knocking out like 10 people at the bar. Every single one of us has either an uncle, cousin or brother that has done something like that at the local pub or fast pitch tourney.

The first thing I’m going to miss is the feeling of having our own show. Honestly, it was first time ever that Natives had something on television they could be proud of and enjoy at the same time. I’m definitely going to miss that. I’m also just going to miss these characters. I think I speak for everyone when I say each one of these rez dogs had cool story arcs that could have gone on a little longer if they saw fit. I respect the creative decision not to as carrying something on too long can be a mistake. I’m just saying. More than anything, I’m going to miss the weekly texts from my cousins and friends saying “hey you see the new episode?” “What you think about that part when this happened?” It’s a show that really brought us all together for something good. I’m hoping something else takes its place and keeps that connection.

The show kicked the door down for any Native with a well-developed idea. Sterlin has proven that a Native show can work, can appeal to a wider audience and can be successful if someone is willing to put the hard work in to see it come to life. So, my question is, “who’s next?”

We did not forget about you Taika.

For those who are not aware, Taika Waititi is the co-creator of Reservation Dogs. He and Sterlin Harjo met back in 2004 at the Sundance Film Festival and immediately hit it off. They had both been working on a similar story with two different and unique backgrounds. These stories are what would later be fused into the creation that is Reservation Dogs. I loved how he and Sterlin wanted to make something about Natives that wasn’t depressing. Something new and inspiring that would be humorous and enjoyable to watch.

Taika is an actor, writer and director. He has played roles and directed films in many mainstream successes such as The Mandalorian, Free Guy and my personal favorite Thor Ragnarok. I honestly didn’t know that he directed Thor, it’s easily the best Thor movie in my opinion and possibly top 5 in the MCU. I also love his character Korg. I’m not sure how I didn’t draw the similarities in behavior between big Polynesians and Korg. He’s not some big rude bully. He’s a soft spoken laid back guy that doesn’t need to act all tough but would absolutely destroy you.

Lastly, one of the things I really admire about Taika is the way he owns his originality. He keeps his accent in everything he does, while wearing his heritage as a badge of honor blending it perfectly into whatever he’s working on. Keep bringing your vision to life and we will keep supporting and enjoying.