‘Reservation Dogs’ Star D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai Wears Red Palm Print for Indigenous Women

During the Emmy Awards held in Los Angeles on September 16, D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, a nominee for his role in Reservation Dogs, made a powerful statement by adorning his face with a red paint covering his mouth. This striking choice was aimed at raising awareness about the ongoing crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous women.

The 22-year-old actor expressed his concerns regarding the disturbing trend that has been affecting Indigenous communities in the United States and Canada. In an interview on the Emmys red carpet, he shared, “We just find that there is a really big epidemic where our sisters, our relatives, our two-spirited relatives are going missing at an alarming rate, and a lot of people are doing nothing about it.” His comments highlight the need for greater awareness and action regarding this issue.

Woon-A-Tai elaborated on the meaning behind the red palm print on his face, stating, “This is what the red palm print represents: shutting a woman up, and the red represents violence and death.” Through this visual representation, he aims to shine a light on the severe violence faced by Indigenous women and the tragic reality of their disappearances.

In addition to his impactful statement, Woon-A-Tai donned a sleek black tuxedo for the ceremony. He is known for his role as Bear, a Native teenager, in the critically acclaimed FX comedy series created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi. The show has garnered praise for its authentic representation of Indigenous life, and Woon-A-Tai’s portrayal has been a significant part of its success.

Making history, Woon-A-Tai became the first Indigenous actor to be nominated for the Best Actor in a Comedy category. Though he did not take home the award—losing to Jeremy Allen White from The Bear—his nomination itself is a landmark achievement that reflects a growing recognition of Indigenous talent in mainstream media.

This moment at the Emmys not only highlighted Woon-A-Tai’s talents but also brought essential conversations about Indigenous rights and the urgent issue of missing and murdered women to a wider audience. By using his platform in such a visible manner, Woon-A-Tai has emphasized the responsibility that comes with visibility in the entertainment industry.

As discussions continue surrounding representation and the narratives within Hollywood, Woon-A-Tai’s actions serve as a reminder of the urgent need to address societal issues head-on. His bold statement at a prestigious event is a poignant call for awareness, urging everyone to acknowledge and tackle the systemic violence faced by Indigenous communities.

The incident is indicative of a broader trend where artists and entertainers are increasingly using their visibility to advocate for important social issues. As more individuals within the industry follow suit, there is hope for more significant changes and deeper conversations about justice and equity in society.

In conclusion, D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai not only showcased his acting prowess but also took a vital step in raising awareness about violence against Indigenous women during the Emmy Awards. His commitment to shedding light on this issue represents the kind of advocacy that can inspire change, reminding viewers and attendees alike of the pressing matters that require attention.