The Stream

Reimagining Native Americans in the arts

Indigenous science fiction authors and artists fire back at J.K. Rowling’s depiction of their peoples.

Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling may be beloved worldwide, but the newest installment of her franchise is outraging many Native Americans. They say History of Magic in North America is a profiteering literary colonisation of their culture. On Tuesday, indigenous authors and artists debate who has the right to write about them, and share how they are using science fiction and fantasy to redefine antiquated narratives.

Joining this conversation:

Adrienne Keene @NativeApprops
Scholar & blogger
nativeappropriations.com

Skawennati
New Media Artist
skawennati.com

Stephen Graham Jones @SGJ72
Horror, Sci-Fi & Fantasy Author
stephengrahamjones.com

Elizabeth LaPensée @odaminowin
Writer & Video Game Designer
elizabethlapensee.com

Who has the right to write about indigenous religion and tradition? Share your thoughts below.