Ghost Dancing with Trooper Jane

by Alison Maclean

DV, 2007

Ghost Dancing with Trooper Jane was shot on location in Pine Ridge, South Dakota, the 'worst' Reservation in North America, and Arizona, home of the wealthy Navajo Nation. Native Americans have the largest number of soldiers per capita serving in the United States Armed Forces. Women are becoming the number one recruits.  Many are young mothers wanting to improve their living conditions and get a post secondary education. As of 2007, more than 90 female soldiers have died in Iraq. Stories of survival, from Wounded Knee, to Iraq.

A theme of 'Women as Warriors' is explored with storylines on various women including Canadian Peace Activist Anna Mae Aquash, who was murdered on Pine Ridge Reservation thirty years ago. Also, PFC. Lori Piestewa, the first female Native American Soldier to die in combat in Iraq, is captured in her last interview before deployment. A closing tribute is given in honour of the fallen female soldiers of Iraq, featuring the music of Buffy Sainte-Marie.

Principal Crew

Producer / Director - Alison Maclean

Crew Member Profiles

Festivals

NIAGARA INDIE FILM FEST-2007 Best Independent Documentary