Rhayne Vermette attends the Native Forum presented by NBCUniversal LAUNCH at The Park. (Photo by Soul Brother/Shutterstock for Sundance Film Festival)
As snow fell in Park City, Utah, for the first time since the 2025 Sundance Film Festival began, an added chill filled the air. But inside the Native Forum presented by NBCUniversal LAUNCH at The Park, the atmosphere was anything but cold. The space, adorned with greenery and bathed in red and amber lights, was vibrant and spirited as members of the Indigenous Program’s community gathered, sharing stories, laughter, and camaraderie. Despite the wintry weather outside, the energy inside was inviting, with attendees savoring smoked trout cakes, prosciutto-wrapped pears, and frybread.
Lively conversations filled the room until the lights dimmed, signaling the start of the afternoon’s program. Adam Piron, Director of Sundance Institute’s Indigenous Program, took the stage to guide the event, setting a reflective and celebratory tone. Bart Powakee and the Red Spirit Singers from the Ute Tribal Nation offered a powerful song, and the room was led in a blessing that anchored us in gratitude and inspired good fortune.
Following the welcome, Sundance Institute’s acting CEO Amanda Kelso and Board member Amy Redford addressed the audience, expressing appreciation for the Indigenous filmmakers and storytellers who continue to enrich the Festival.
Piron then brought this year’s recipients of the Graton Fellowship and Merata Mita Fellowship, the stage to recognize their artistry. Honored today for receiving the Graton Fellowship, designed to support Indigenous artists from California-based tribes, both federally and non-federally recognized, were Roni Jo Draper (Yurok) and Stefan Perez (Coast Miwok). Also honored was Rhayne Vermette (Métis), the recipient of the Merata Mita Fellowship, which is granted annually to an Indigenous woman-identified artist endeavoring to direct a feature film.
Draper, Perez, and Vermette’s appearance today marked an exciting moment that underscored the Festival’s ongoing commitment to supporting Indigenous voices in film.
