Lecture Notes: Dick Cavett Show with Marlon Brando and Guests

Introduction

Host: Dick Cavett
Topic: Native American issues and representation in Hollywood
Special Guest: Marlon Brando
Additional Guests: Local Tribal Leaders
- Sam Hagee: Project Director for the Lummi Tribe
- Dr. Wallace Heath: Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council
- Dennis Limber Hand: Chairman of the Pyramid Paiute Tribe
- Mervin Right: Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribal Representative

Marlon Brando is interviewed after returning from Tahiti.
Quick reference to famous roles played by Brando: Stanley Kowalski, Zapata, Marc Antony, Terry Malloy, Vito Corleone, and Paul.
Mention of Brando's disdain for superlatives in his praise.
Cavett reminisces about phone calls with Brando, during which Brando made sharp observations about Cavett's behavior.

Brando talks about his decision to decline the Academy Award to protest the treatment of Native Americans by the film industry.
Importance of cinema in shaping public perception of Native Americans and other minorities.
Issues with stereotypes in Hollywood: the savage, the drunken Indian, negative portrayal of minorities.
Audience reaction during the Academy Awards: boos and interruptions.
Emotional impact on Brando and his perspective on Hollywood’s role in perpetuating stereotypes.

Brando emphasizes the damage caused by negative portrayals of Native Americans and other minorities in media.
Reflection on the broader issue of racial stereotypes in films, emphasizing the need for change.

Mention of backlash from other celebrities like Raquel Welch, Steve McQueen, and Clint Eastwood.
Discussion on the divided public opinion and support Brando received.
Conversation on the expectations and responsibilities of public figures in raising social issues.

Brando discusses acting as a craft and means of survival, seeing it as a necessary social lubricant.
Critique of press focus on sensational stories rather than substantial ones.
Society’s inclination towards entertainment over significant social issues.
Comparison of acting to daily social interactions and the necessity of 'acting' in regular jobs.

Highlight of systemic issues facing Native American communities: high suicide rates, malnutrition, economic challenges.
Call for re-education on Native American history in the U.S.
Acknowledgement of the United States' broken promises and treaties with Native American tribes.
Importance of public recognition and understanding of Native American sovereign rights.

Background on Brando’s long-term engagement with Native American rights, starting with fishing rights disputes in the 1950s.
Personal motivations driven by a desire to correct historical inaccuracies and injustices.

Discussion on the potential positive impact of media's accurate representation and Brando’s commitment to using his platform for advocacy.
Criticism of the lack of substantial stories in popular media formats.

Discussion with Tribal Leaders on specific issues: water rights, strip mining, industrial pollution.
Importance of sustainable economic development and cultural preservation through projects like the Lummi aquaculture project.

Urging public support for pending legislation that can aid Native American communities.
Highlight the importance of constituents’ voices in influencing political action.

Reflection on the role of media and public figures in advocating for social justice.
Marlon Brando's dedication to addressing these deep-rooted issues despite backlash and challenges.