The "crying Native American guy" is Iron Eyes Cody, an actor who became globally recognized for his role as the "Crying Indian" in a powerful 1970s public service announcement (PSA) for the Keep America Beautiful campaign.
The Face Behind the Tears: Iron Eyes Cody
Iron Eyes Cody (born Espera Oscar de Corti) was an American actor who appeared in over 100 films and numerous television productions. However, he is most famously remembered as the "Crying Indian" in the iconic anti-littering commercial that debuted in 1971. His tearful face in these TV commercials became a powerful symbol of environmentalism and the anti-littering campaign. A notable photograph from 1986 captures his enduring image.
The Iconic "Crying Indian" PSA
The "Crying Indian" commercial, titled "Pollution: It's a Crying Shame" or sometimes just "Crying Indian," depicted Cody as a Native American man paddling a canoe through increasingly polluted waters. He then walks ashore to a highway littered with garbage. As a car drives by and someone throws a bag of trash out the window, a single tear rolls down his face.
The PSA's effectiveness was attributed to several key elements:
- Emotional Appeal: The image of a Native American, traditionally seen as a steward of the land, shedding a tear over environmental destruction resonated deeply with viewers.
- Simplicity and Impact: The message was clear and visually compelling, requiring no complex narrative.
- Timeliness: It arrived during a growing environmental movement, tapping into public concern about pollution.
The commercial significantly boosted the Keep America Beautiful campaign's visibility and remains one of the most memorable and impactful PSAs in history.
Unpacking Iron Eyes Cody's Identity
While Iron Eyes Cody convincingly portrayed a Native American throughout his career and in public life, his actual heritage was a subject of much discussion and eventual revelation.
| Aspect | Portrayed Identity (Public Persona) | Actual Heritage (Later Revealed) |
|---|---|---|
| Ethnic Background | Claimed to be of Cherokee and Seneca ancestry, often identifying as a Native American. | Born Espera Oscar de Corti, he was of Italian-American descent. |
| Cultural Ties | Actively participated in Native American events, wore traditional regalia. | No documented Native American lineage, though he embraced the culture. |
| Public Perception | Widely accepted as a Native American actor and advocate for Indigenous rights. | His true background became widely known after his death in 1999. |
Despite his non-Native American heritage, Cody's dedication to portraying Native American characters and his advocacy for environmental causes led many to view him as an authentic voice for conservation.
The PSA's Enduring Legacy and Ownership
The "Crying Indian" PSA has continued to hold a significant place in American popular culture, sparking both admiration for its environmental message and discussion about cultural appropriation. Its powerful imagery endured for decades, reminding generations about the importance of preventing litter and protecting nature.
Shifting Rights and Representation
In a significant development reflecting evolving perspectives on representation, the rights to the famed "Crying Indian" PSA were transferred in 2023 to the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI). This transfer marked a crucial shift in ownership and control over a widely recognized image that historically featured a non-Native person portraying a Native American.
This move symbolizes:
- Empowerment: Giving a prominent Native American organization stewardship over such an iconic representation allows them to guide its future use and context.
- Authenticity: It promotes more authentic storytelling and representation by empowering Indigenous voices to manage their own narratives.
- Educational Opportunity: The NCAI can use the PSA as a tool for environmental education while also fostering dialogue about Native American history, culture, and sovereignty.
The legacy of the "Crying Indian" PSA, fronted by Iron Eyes Cody, serves as a powerful reminder of environmental responsibility and continues to evolve in discussions about cultural identity and media representation.
