Smoke Signals Thesis Statement

In Smoke Signals, Chris Eyre illustrates how Thomas and Victor are simultaneously burdened and empowered by their Native American roots. They are burdened by Christopher Columbus and his discovery of the New World which brought diseases to the Native Americans wiping out 90% of their population causing them to continuously defend themselves. In addition, Victor struggles with the stereotype of people thinking that all Native Americans are alcoholics. Although they are burdened tremendously by their Native American heritage, Thomas and Victor are able to feel empowered. Victor finds power and meaning through the history of Native American warriors while Thomas finds it through the Native American tradition of storytelling. He shares his stories and experience with others to show what it means to be a Native American to him. Through storytelling, Thomas is able to empower others to be true to themselves.