Because of their race, many Native Americans were denied to right to attend particular schools or to work for certain companies. Some employers and school directors express reluctance in hiring or accepting Native Americans in their institutions. This is most probably a result of the fact that stereotypes are sometimes considered more important than the actual value of an individual. People at Sundance Institute are keen on showing that their main interest is in promoting talented people, regardless of the background that such people have. Even though it is difficult to associate matters like race and talent, it is very likely that one of the reasons for which Native American film enthusiasts are relatively anonymous in the motion picture industry is the fact that they were not presented with equal chances of making a name for themselves. With the Native American and Indigenous Program initiated by Sundance Institute, matters are very probable to change in the coming future. Native Americans involved in film-making activities are enabled to learn more regarding the industry and eventually have the chance of presenting their works before some of the film world's most recognized directors and screenwriters (Native Lab Fellowship).

The Native American Residential Fellowship Program at the Peabody Essex Museum in Massachusetts is very similar to the Native American and Indigenous Program at Sundance Institute when regarding the motives behind each of the two. "Funded by Education through Cultural and Historical Organizations (ECHO), this program ensures that underserved populations have...

People at the Essex Museum are well-aware of the fact that Native Americans are commonly discriminated in a variety of domains related to history and culture. As a result, their program is meant to reduce the disadvantage that natives have and in due course encourage Native Americans who are passionate about matters connected to the field of work operated by the Peabody Essex Museum.
All things considered, conditions continue to be critical for Native Americans in 2011, given the many stereotypes related to them, their inability to attend educational institutes in similar proportions to white Americans, and the fact that it is virtually impossible for most of them to reach high ranking positions.

Works cited:

Takamura, Jeanette C. "Getting Ready for the 21st Century: The Aging of America and the Older Americans Act," Health and Social Work 24.3 (1999): 232

"Massachusetts: Native American Residential Fellowship Program - Peabody Essex Museum." Retrieved February 10, 2011, from the Indigenous Peoples Issues and Resources Website: http://indigenouspeoplesissues.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8719:Massachusetts-native-american-residential-fellowship-program-peabody-essex-museum&catid=74:funding-a-grants&Itemid=103

"Native Lab Fellowship." Retrieved February 10, 2011, from the Sundance Institute Website: http://www.sundance.org/programs/native-lab-fellowship/