Citizen Journalism

The Citizen Journalism program from Arizona Public Media (AZPM) is a unique, community-based series that puts professional television cameras, methods and production support into the hands of non-professional citizens who create films offering personal perspectives on important topics. Citizen Journalists cover topics ranging from senior care and health issues to reservation politics and tribal culture. The program’s purpose is to introduce viewers to differing perspectives by presenting as many points of view as possible.

One note to the viewers: These programs are produced by citizen filmmakers, not professional journalists. The stories are the filmmakers’ own, told through their perspective, using their thoughts, words and images. The opinions expressed in this program do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Arizona Public Media.

The Chiefs' Prophecy: Survival of the Northern Cheyenne Nation
Journalist: Leo Killsback

Leo Killsback (Cheyenne) presents an insider’s view of the Northern Cheyenne nation, from the “Sweet Medicine” laws used by tribal elders to lead tribal society to the root problems the nation suffers from today. Leo is from Busby, Montana which is located on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation in southeastern Montana.

Changes From Within: A Navajo Reflection
Journalist: Nicholas Taylor
Nicholas Taylor (Navajo) presents a reflective journey through the contrasting worlds of modern university life and life on the Navajo Nation reservation in Northern Arizona. Taylor’s unique perspective -- that of a young Native student attending college off-reservation -- is meant for Native Americans and anyone who is facing the difficulties of living in two worlds while struggling to maintain their own culture and beliefs.

Sons of Two Cultures
Journalist: Sarah Fendenheim
This unique profile of three adult sons from the marriage of a Native American mother and German father follows the path of each while touching on the issue of mixed race within a family from Southern Arizona's Tohono O'odham reservation.