#NativeTikTok Phenomenon
Indigenous creators are sharing their cultures with the world on #NativeTikTok through dancing, jokes, history, and more. TikTok, known for its choreographed dance videos, has evolved into a powerful educational tool for activism and connecting people to diverse cultures. Indigenous content creators have leveraged this platform to share their lives, history, and rich customs.
Moreover, TikTok fosters new connections between individuals who may not have interacted otherwise. Hashtags like #NativeTikTok boast over 6.5 billion views, showcasing contributions from Indigenous people globally. Through traditional dances and engaging snippets, Native creators are promoting awareness of political and social issues while breaking down stereotypes and strengthening each other’s voices.
Breaking Stereotypes and Educating Others
TikTok increasingly serves as a meaningful forum for Indigenous creators to take pride in their cultures and represent marginalized voices. Some #NativeTikTok content highlights traditions and rituals that were historically suppressed. Creators like James Jones, known on the platform as @notoriouscree, utilize the app to educate viewers about Indigenous identity, history, and traditional practices.
In one notable video, Jones emphasized the significance of braiding his hair as a spiritual practice, reflecting on his ancestors’ experiences with cultural oppression. “It wasn’t that long ago my people were forced to cut their hair in residential schools, so I braid my hair to honor my ancestors,” he stated.
Despite the presence of numerous Indigenous nations in the U.S., many Americans remain unaware of their cultures. The Reclaiming Native Truth project reveals that 72% of Americans seldom encounter information about Native Americans. This invisibility extends to pressing societal issues faced by Indigenous peoples.
Amanda Clinton, a Cherokee Nation member, explains, “Invisibility is one of the top challenges facing Natives. Until we can truly be seen as modern people, we can’t adequately address other problems.” This highlights the urgent need for visibility and representation in contemporary society.
Meet the People Preserving the Native Cultures of Alaska and Hawaii
TikTok as Storytelling
Oral storytelling is a cornerstone of Indigenous cultures, serving as a method to pass down knowledge and resist cultural erasure. TikTok allows Native creators to showcase their traditions and assert their cultural presence, effectively functioning as a form of resistance against historical injustices.
Patuk Glenn, an Iñupiaq woman from Alaska, exemplifies this by sharing her daily life through her TikTok account @patukglenn. Her videos range from traditional hunting methods to favorite local foods, providing audiences with a glimpse into her culture.
These online interactions emphasize the rich diversity within Indigenous cultures. Instead of generalizing Native peoples as a monolithic group, TikTok showcases the unique traditions and languages at risk of extinction across various communities. This educational approach fosters a more nuanced understanding among viewers.
Empowering Indigenous women is also a focus for creators like Tia Wood, who uses her TikTok profile, @tiamiscihk, to highlight significant issues and offer historical insights. Wood reminds viewers, “I dance for those who couldn’t. We are still here.” Her work emphasizes the importance of reclaiming cultural practices and promoting visibility for Indigenous women.
@tiamiscihk
WE ARE STILL HERE. ❤️✊🏽
♬ Thankful – Al Crawford
