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Stories in Motion: Indigenous Storytelling and Life Lessons with ‘Wáats’asdíyei Joe Yates
Registration
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Details
Time: 6:00–7:30 PM
Location: Wegmans Theater, MAGIC Spell Studios
Hosted by: Future Stewards Program (FSP)
In partnership with: College of Art and Design, School of Film and Animation
Join us for an evening of inspiration and storytelling with ‘Wáats’asdíyei Joe Yates (he/him), an award-winning Haida writer, director, and film producer from Craig, Alaska. A member of the Yawk’laanaas Tribe, from Brown Bear House and Raven Moiety, ‘Wáats’asdíyei brings his passion for storytelling to every facet of his work.
‘Wáats’asdíyei currently serves as an Associate Field Producer and Associate Story Work Producer for National Geographic’s Life Below Zero: First Alaskans and as a writer for PBS KIDS’ Emmy Award-winning animated series Molly of Denali. He has produced several short films, including Voices of Our Ancestors, which explores language revitalization within Yup’ik and Haida communities.
During this event, Joe will share selected scenes from his film and television projects, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Indigenous storytelling in action. His presentation will highlight how visual media can honor ancestral knowledge, strengthen community, and inspire the next generation of storytellers.
His upcoming documentary, Indigenous Resistance: Now and Then, further explores the resilience and strength of Indigenous resistance through the voices of Alaska Native leaders, storytellers, and changemakers. As Joe explains, “My mission is to portray our people, Alaskan Natives, with representation in front and behind the cameras. We ensure that these stories are accurate and highlight our traditional values.”
‘Wáats’asdíyei was recently awarded the Individual Artist Award from the Rasmuson Foundation, supporting his latest project, My Message to You—a short narrative film that asks, “If you pass away today, will your children know enough to continue your culture tomorrow?”
This event will feature a 60-minute presentation including film excerpts and storytelling, followed by a 30-minute Q&A session.
All members of the RIT community are welcome to attend.