Smoke Signals

Evan Adams and Adam Beach in Smoke Signals (1998).
The UAF chapter of Phi Alpha Theta, the National History Honor Society, invites you to a special screening and discussion of the groundbreaking film Smoke Signals. This award-winning 1998 film, celebrated at both the Sundance Film Festival and the American Indian Film Festival, offers a powerful lens into Indigenous identity, storytelling, and the complexities of family and memory.
Join us on Tuesday, April 29th, from 6:00–9:00 p.m. in Gruening 412 for an evening that blends cinema and scholarship. Dr. Mary Ludwig, a historian specializing in Indigenous history, will provide context and lead a thought-provoking discussion following the film. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a film lover, or simply curious about Indigenous narratives in media, this event offers a unique opportunity to engage with history in a dynamic and accessible way.
About the Film
Smoke Signals tells the story of Thomas and Victor, two young men from a Native American reservation, on a journey to retrieve the remains of Victor’s estranged father. Woven with humor, grief, and reflection, the film explores themes of identity, reconciliation, and the enduring power of stories.
About Phi Alpha Theta at UAF
Phi Alpha Theta is an academic honor society for students and scholars of history. The UAF chapter creates opportunities for students to deepen their historical understanding through lectures, events, and community discussions.