Many American Indians deeply resent distorted depictions of themselves in the media. They are convinced that false media caricatures have helped rob them of their history. This report addresses a fascinating incongruity: the contributions made by Native Americans to the U.S. news media--a media that has played a key role in creating the flawed portrait. This booklet documents the accomplishments of such journalists as Elias Boudinot, who in 1827 became the founding editor of "The Cherokee Phoenix"; John Rollin Ridge, a nephew of Boudinot who wrote books and articles about the California Gold Rush and Indian affairs, and who founded several California newspapers; Ora Eddleman Reed, a Cherokee who became the first Native American talk show host in 1924; and Hattie Kauffman, a Nez Perce journalist of ABC News who in 1989 was the first American Indian to report a news story on national television. Uncovering forgotten journalism history is the first purpose of this report. The second is to validate the notion that it is essential for American Indians and Alaska Natives to work in the media, both tribal and mainstream, in order to provide relevant local news to Native communities and to influence the images of Native Americans that are projected to the country. Native Americans can contribute to journalism and still maintain tribal roots. Contains references in endnotes, and a bibliography of 46 books, 19 articles, and 2 dissertations. (TD)