A powerful documentary, "Diverted: Indigenous Stewardship and Saving Great Salt Lake," is set to spark crucial conversations about the future of this iconic lake. With a focus on Indigenous perspectives and their deep connection to the land, this film aims to shake things up and challenge the status quo.
The film's director, Valene Peratrovich, an Indigenous woman herself, shares her journey and the impact this project has had on her and her crew. Initially brought on board for voiceover work, Peratrovich soon became an integral part of the team, driven by her passion for her culture and a desire to amplify Indigenous voices.
"Diverted" showcases the expertise and ecological knowledge of Indigenous communities, featuring interviews with influential figures like Darren Parry, Carl Moore, and Elizabeth Kronk Warner. These voices come together to paint a picture of a community deeply invested in the health of the lake and its natural resources.
But here's where it gets controversial... In 2024, Utah passed a law, HB249, banning the granting of personhood to bodies of water. This law, inspired by Indigenous practices and environmental movements worldwide, was a blow to the documentary's message. Peratrovich describes it as a "punch in the gut," as it limited the legal rights that could be afforded to the Great Salt Lake.
Despite these obstacles, the crew persevered, updating the film to reflect this new reality. They even received a grant from the Salt Lake City Arts Council, which recognized the film's potential to make an impact at film festivals and raise awareness.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this documentary is the reaction it elicits from viewers. Some were surprised by the lack of traditional Indigenous imagery, challenging the crew to redefine what it means to be Indigenous on screen. Peratrovich and her team took this feedback seriously, revisiting their footage and asking participants to share their definitions of Indigenous identity.
"We realized we needed to help people understand what it means to be Indigenous and break those stereotypes," Peratrovich said.
This documentary is a call to action, a chance for the community to come together and find solutions. Peratrovich hopes it will plant seeds of understanding, hope, and bridges between different perspectives.
"It won't be just one entity or a single person with a solution," she added.
So, what do you think? Can art be a catalyst for change? How can we ensure that Indigenous voices are heard and understood? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
