‘Reservation Dogs’ Star D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai Carries Powerful Message to Emmys with Red Hand Painted on His Face

D'Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai gets his first Emmy nomination

The 2023 Emmy Awards were not just a celebration of television excellence; they also served as a platform for important social issues. Among the standout moments was D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai, star of the critically acclaimed series "Reservation Dogs." As he walked the red carpet, Woon-A-Tai drew attention not only for his performance but also for a powerful statement he made through body art—a red hand painted across his mouth.

Woon-A-Tai’s striking choice to paint a red hand over his mouth was a bold gesture aimed at raising awareness about the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) crisis. According to Native Hope, the red hand symbolizes solidarity with Indigenous women who have gone missing or been murdered, representing "all the sisters who are missing and whose voices are not heard" and highlighting "the silence of the media and law enforcement amid this crisis." As the actor explained in interviews following the event, his choice was deeply personal and rooted in a desire to shine a light on an issue that often goes overlooked. “This isn’t just a hashtag or a trend for me,” he said. “This is about real lives and real stories that deserve to be told.”

 The MMIW Crisis

The Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women crisis is a complex issue that spans across North America. Indigenous women are disproportionately affected by violence, and the rates of disappearance and homicide are alarmingly high. According to various studies and reports, Indigenous women are more likely to experience violence than any other demographic group in the United States and Canada.  Woon-A-Tai's gesture comes at a time when advocates are calling for greater awareness and action regarding this epidemic. The red hand symbolizes a larger movement, urging society to acknowledge the plight of Indigenous women and the systemic issues contributing to their vulnerability.

Woon-A-Tai’s actions at the Emmys not only brought attention to a critical issue but also highlighted the importance of representation in media. As a young Indigenous actor in a predominantly white industry, he understands the weight of visibility. “It’s vital that we have our stories told and that our voices are amplified,” he remarked. “When you see people who look like you in prominent positions, it can change everything.”

His role in "Reservation Dogs," a show that centers around the lives of four Indigenous teenagers in rural Oklahoma, has already broken ground in showcasing authentic Indigenous narratives. The series has received critical acclaim for its portrayal of contemporary Indigenous life, and Woon-A-Tai’s performance has resonated with audiences, making him a role model for young Indigenous people. 

D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai and Quannah Chasinghorse at the 2024

Speaking Out Against Silence

During his time on the red carpet and in subsequent interviews, Woon-A-Tai emphasized the need for continued dialogue about the MMIW crisis. “We can’t just post about it on social media and forget it,” he urged. “We need to keep talking, keep pushing for change, and keep honoring those who are missing and those who have been lost.” He also called out the silence from mainstream media and law enforcement agencies. “There’s a narrative that gets perpetuated when certain stories are ignored, and it’s time to break that silence,” he asserted. His red hand was not just a statement of solidarity but also a demand for accountability from institutions that have often failed Indigenous communities.

Art has long been a powerful medium for activism, and Woon-A-Tai's use of his platform to advocate for change demonstrates how influential artists can be in raising awareness about social issues. “I believe art can inspire action,” he said. “Whether it’s through music, acting, or visual art, we have the ability to move people and evoke emotions that lead to real change.” His efforts at the Emmys are part of a broader trend among artists and entertainers who are increasingly using their platforms to advocate for social justice. From musicians to actors, many are stepping into activism, recognizing the power of their influence.

Community Support and Empowerment

Woon-A-Tai's commitment to advocating for Indigenous women is also rooted in his belief in community empowerment. He understands that change requires collective action and solidarity within Indigenous communities. “We need to lift each other up and support one another,” he said. “It’s about coming together to create a safer and more just world for everyone.” His advocacy aligns with the principles of many Indigenous organizations that focus on healing and empowerment. By speaking out and raising awareness, Woon-A-Tai aims to inspire others to join the fight against violence and discrimination.

The Emmy Awards have often been a platform for political statements, but Woon-A-Tai's action resonated deeply with many viewers. His bold choice to address the MMIW crisis not only brought attention to an important issue but also sparked conversations in homes and communities across the country.  The red hand painted on his face became a symbol of resistance and hope, urging others to confront the uncomfortable realities of violence against Indigenous women. “If my gesture can spark even a small change in awareness, then I’ve done my job,” he stated.

As D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai continues to navigate his career in Hollywood, he remains committed to using his platform for advocacy. He hopes to engage in more projects that center Indigenous stories and perspectives, believing that representation is key to changing the narrative around Indigenous issues.

His next steps include seeking out roles that allow him to delve deeper into themes of identity, culture, and resilience. “I want to tell stories that matter,” he expressed. “We have a rich tapestry of experiences in our communities, and I want to be part of sharing those stories.”

D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai's appearance at the Emmys was a powerful reminder of the responsibility artists hold in advocating for social justice. Through his red hand, he brought visibility to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women crisis, challenging viewers to confront an issue that has often been marginalized. His actions reflect a growing movement among artists to use their platforms for advocacy, and his commitment to elevating Indigenous voices is commendable. As society continues to grapple with issues of violence and injustice, Woon-A-Tai's message is one of hope, resilience, and the importance of speaking out.

In a world that can often feel silent on these matters, Woon-A-Tai’s red hand serves as a rallying cry, encouraging us all to listen, learn, and take action in solidarity with those who have been lost.