Watch Lake of Betrayal

Lake of Betrayal is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that explores the devastating effects of the Kinzua Dam on the Seneca Nation of Indians. The film tells the story of how the construction of the dam in the early 1960s forced the relocation of hundreds of families from their ancestral lands, causing immeasurable loss and cultural trauma. The film, released in 2017 and directed by Paul Lamont, showcases interviews with the affected Seneca people as well as politicians and historians, painting a vivid picture of the impact of the dam and the ensuing fight for justice.

The centerpiece of the documentary is the Kinzua Dam itself, a massive concrete structure that spans the Kinzua Creek in the Allegheny Mountains of Pennsylvania. The dam was built in the aftermath of Hurricane Agnes, which caused widespread flooding in the region in 1972. The US Army Corps of Engineers saw an opportunity to control flooding on the Allegheny River by building the Kinzua Dam, and began construction shortly thereafter. However, the Seneca Nation, which had lived in the region for centuries and relied on the Allegheny River for fishing and other activities, was not consulted about the project.

Lake of Betrayal explores the impact of the dam on the Seneca Nation, focusing on the forced relocation of families from the Allegany Reservation, which was located downstream from the dam site. The film features interviews with several members of the Seneca community who share their stories of loss and trauma. One woman recounts how her family was told to leave their home within 24 hours, and how they lost their farm, their livestock, and their sense of place in the world. Other members of the community describe the destruction of sacred sites and the loss of cultural heritage that accompanies forced relocation.

The documentary also delves into the political and economic factors that drove the construction of the Kinzua Dam. It emphasizes the role of the federal government in pushing forward the project, despite widespread opposition from both the Seneca Nation and local residents. The film makes clear that the creation of the dam was driven in large part by a desire to generate hydroelectric power, which would benefit the state of Pennsylvania and the national economy as a whole.

Lake of Betrayal raises important questions about the relationship between the US government and Native American communities. The documentary argues that the decision to build the dam was a clear violation of the Seneca Nation's sovereignty, and that the US government failed to live up to its obligations under federal treaties. The film makes a powerful case for reparations and restitution, arguing that it is not enough to simply acknowledge the past; concrete actions must be taken to provide justice and healing to those who have suffered.

At the heart of Lake of Betrayal is a deep reverence for the land and the ecosystem of the Allegheny River. The documentary highlights the ways in which the dam has disrupted the natural balance of the region, causing sedimentation and erosion, and threatening the survival of important fish species. The film argues that the ecological consequences of the dam are not just a matter of environmental concern, but are also intimately tied to the cultural and spiritual well-being of the Seneca Nation.

Overall, Lake of Betrayal is a powerful and moving documentary that sheds light on an often-overlooked chapter in American history. It is a film that challenges us to think deeply about the relationship between humans and the natural world, and about the importance of respecting the sovereignty of Native American communities. The documentary is anchored by a strong commitment to justice and accountability, and is a reminder that the struggle for Native American rights is far from over.

Lake of Betrayal is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 57 minutes.