MANAHATTAN
copywriter + voiceoverAmerican Indian College Fund
Agency: Wieden + Kennedy
Art Director: Sam Perry
Copywriter: Robin Maxkii
Director: Joe Pytka
Manhattan is part of the This Is Indian Country campaign—a series of regional spots reclaiming familiar American places as Indigenous homelands.
In just 15 seconds, this spot reminds viewers that even one of the most iconic cities in the world is rooted in Native history. The name Manhattan itself comes from the Lenape word Manaháhtaan, meaning “the place where we gather wood for bows.” Yet, like so many Indigenous place names, its meaning and origin are often overlooked.
As writer and creative voice, I wanted this piece to be direct and undeniable. No voiceover, no explanation—just bold type over everyday images of the city, paired with a simple but powerful statement: This is Indian Country.
This spot was designed for impact in digital and social placements, as well as part of our national OOH campaign. It’s a reminder that Native presence is not a relic of the past—it’s all around us, embedded in the very language and land we move through daily.
In just 15 seconds, this spot reminds viewers that even one of the most iconic cities in the world is rooted in Native history. The name Manhattan itself comes from the Lenape word Manaháhtaan, meaning “the place where we gather wood for bows.” Yet, like so many Indigenous place names, its meaning and origin are often overlooked.
As writer and creative voice, I wanted this piece to be direct and undeniable. No voiceover, no explanation—just bold type over everyday images of the city, paired with a simple but powerful statement: This is Indian Country.
This spot was designed for impact in digital and social placements, as well as part of our national OOH campaign. It’s a reminder that Native presence is not a relic of the past—it’s all around us, embedded in the very language and land we move through daily.
