Red Power

We are seeing a poster made during the Red Power Movement in 1970. This poster is a reclamation of Indigenous identity in the United States and a commentary on the treatment of indigenous people. The poster is composed of a circle shape resembling a coin on top of an American Flag. On the circle is an image of a Native American paired with the words “Red Power.” The symbol of a coin over the American flag can be symbolic of the exploitation of Native Americans within America, and this poster signifies them reclaiming their status within the United States. 

During the 1960s and 1970s there were groups around the world resisting international style and tackling social issues through the form of globalization. Alongside this, there were global movements of Indigenous resistance and anti-colonial struggles. Although the Red Power Movement was a domestic fight for sovereignty within the United States it connects to larger movements with similar themes. This poster is being used as a form of political activism and identity reclamation by using strong imagery connected to large identities such as the United States and Indigenous people. 

The poster uses bold, simple, yet important imagery to spread its message, similar to the Chicano movement. The poster also uses American patriotic symbols such as the American flag paired with symbols of Native Americans to show indigenous pride. The American flag in this poster is turned sideways which can be seen as a way to highlight the oppression instead of patriotism experienced by Native Americans. The coin symbol on top is placed directly on top and is straightforward, showing respect and power to Native Americans. Overall this piece serves as an example of how graphic design can be used as a tool for activism for intersectional issues.