Ben-DutkaI'll probably regret asking this, but I feel it's a legitimate question and one that's essentially unavoidable.
As most of us know, the protagonist in the upcoming Assassin's Creed III is part Native American (and part British). Now, for the most part, I think this would be viewed as a positive thing from the Native community. I asked someone of Native descent about this, and she said that provided the presentation of the character is done in a tasteful and informed way, it's definitely a good thing. She said there just aren't enough Native American role models out there.
It's certainly true that Connor should be viewed as a role model. But you can bet the mainstream media and just about every trailer you see will show him ripping into someone with his tomahawk. The associations that pop into some people's heads may result in some backlash, and I'm just wondering if this will be a big deal… Do most Natives believe what I perceive to be the common sense response, in that if it's done correctly, those of Native descent should be proud? Or is it risky – and in bad taste – to show a half-"Indian" character stalking white European human prey with a bow and arrow and tomahawk?
Maybe it won't be an issue. But these days, if there's even the smallest chance of creating some sort of cultural hullabaloo, it'll likely happen.
