Smoke Signals

Evan Adams and Adam Beach in Smoke Signals (1998).
The 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, the National History Honor Society, invites you to a special screening and discussion of the groundbreaking film Smoke Signals. This award-winning 1998 film, celebrated at both the Sundance Film Festival and the American Indian Film Festival, offers a powerful lens into Indigenous identity, storytelling, and the complexities of family and memory.
Join us on Tuesday, April 29th, from 6:00–9:00 p.m. in Gruening 412 for an evening that blends cinema and scholarship. Dr. Mary Ludwig, a historian specializing in Indigenous history, will provide context and lead a thought-provoking discussion following the film. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a film lover, or simply curious about Indigenous narratives in media, this event offers a unique opportunity to engage with history in a dynamic and accessible way.
51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø the Film
Smoke Signals tells the story of Thomas and Victor, two young men from a Native American reservation, on a journey to retrieve the remains of Victor’s estranged father. Woven with humor, grief, and reflection, the film explores themes of identity, reconciliation, and the enduring power of stories.
51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø Phi Alpha Theta at 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø
Phi Alpha Theta is an academic honor society for students and scholars of history. The 51·çÁ÷¹ÙÍø chapter creates opportunities for students to deepen their historical understanding through lectures, events, and community discussions.