America ReFramed

Moroni for President

By Saila Huusko and Jasper Rischen. A co-production of Outburst Pictures, LLC and Independent Television Services, in association with Vision Maker Media.

Every four years, the Navajo Nation elects its president, whom many consider the most powerful Native American in the country. Frustrated about the lack of progress in the reservation, Moroni Benally, a witty academic with radical ideas, hopes to defeat the incumbent president. MORONI FOR PRESIDENT follows the political newcomer’s grueling, lonely campaign against the “old guard,” and the monumental effort it takes to change the narrative and inspire people to move in new directions.

In the midst of a frenzied election to determine the next President of the tribe, questions of sovereignty, language and identity, as well as recognition of LGBTQ rights come to fore. Fraught with challenges, Moroni soon discovers that theory and a platform does not necessarily prepare you for the daily dirt of politics and the unpredictability of voter’s choice. MORONI FOR PRESIDENT takes the audience to every corner of the iconic American Southwest and shines a light on pressing social issues facing Native Americans in today's United States.

Watch MORONI FOR PRESIDENT and a whole collection of films as part of YOUR VOTE 2020 and Native American Heritage Month. Join the conversation with us on social media using the hashtag #MyHomeIsHere.