FRESNO, CA — River Park hosted a private screening of the documentary film "You’re No Indian" this month, bringing local attention to the sensitive subject of tribal disenrollment—the process of removing individuals from tribal membership.
Directed by Ryan Flynn, the documentary looks at how losing tribal citizenship impacts tribal government, personal identity, and the rights of tribal members. The film took seven years to make and features interviews with members from dozens of tribes across the country, including the Nooksack, Pechanga, and the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians.
Allegations of Financial Motives
Flynn claims that tribal disenrollment is frequently tied to financial interests. The filmmaker says these removals often happen because tribes want to split casino profits among fewer people.
Flynn also claims the film has faced outside pressure during its release. He alleges that "You’re No Indian" has been removed from several film festivals after local tribes urged organizers to cancel the scheduled screenings.
Response from Tribal Leadership
The documentary’s claims have drawn a direct response from local tribal leadership. Deann Kamalani, Chairperson for the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians, stated that the film inaccurately represents how her tribe handles its enrollment process.
Kamalani defended the tribe’s membership requirements, noting that they are based on the tribe’s constitution. She said the process is about the tribe’s right to govern itself and follow its own laws.
Continuing the Conversation
The private event in Fresno allowed residents to view the film and learn about a topic that continues to be a point of debate across California and the United States.
Follow the film’s Instagram for updates and future screening information: https://www.instagram.com/yourenoindian/
