Buffalo Soldiers: George Jordan and the Indian Wars

As the director of "Buffalo Soldiers: George Jordan and the Indian Wars," I feel a profound connection to this project that extends beyond academic interest. My fascination with the interwoven histories of race, war, and honor spurred me to tell a story that had been marginalized for far too long. Centered on George Jordan, a man born into the chains of slavery but who courageously rose to become a soldier in some of the most brutal conflicts of America's westward expansion, the film is an effort to illuminate the shadows that have unfairly clouded the Buffalo Soldiers' legacy. It juxtaposes the staunch resistance of Apache Chiefs with the indomitable spirit of African American warriors, while also highlighting the bitter irony of their battle: fighting for a country that failed to acknowledge their sacrifice or grant them their rightful dignity against an “enemy” that was fighting for their freedom. The narrative reminds us of Jordan's decline and the Army's heartrending refusal to provide him with care, marking a stark contrast against the heroism of his deeds. In presenting this untold history, I hope to provoke a re-evaluation of what we think we know about our past and to inspire a renewed commitment to recognition, respect, and reparative justice in the present. By asking what we can give to honor these unsung heroes, I aspire to foster a deeper understanding and a better, more inclusive future.