Pearl Jam Bassist Ament Highlights Skateboarding’s Role in Indigenous Communities via Tribeca Film
Pearl Jam bassist Ament highlights skateboarding – Jeff Ament, the bassist for Pearl Jam, has long been captivated by the transformative power of skateboarding, a passion that began during his teenage years in the remote Montana community of Big Sandy. Growing up in a place where only a few ramps existed, Ament’s early exposure to the sport was limited, but his fascination deepened when he discovered a makeshift clay wheel skateboard—a humble yet durable tool that sparked his initial interest in the activity.
From Rural Roots to Artistic Expression
Ament’s journey into skateboarding took a pivotal turn during a family trip to California, where he experienced the thrill of riding on urethane wheels over smooth asphalt streets. The stark contrast between the rough clay skateboard and the polished surfaces of California’s skate parks left an indelible impression. Upon returning to Montana, he immersed himself in the pages of Skateboarder magazine, using it as a guide to refine his skills. His father, George, played a crucial role in this process, helping him construct ramps and decks from scratch. These early projects, such as mastering the art of crafting a kick tail, became foundational to Ament’s growth as both a skater and a creative thinker.
“I think the idea that he was helping me build something was the most important thing to him. He gave me a life skill.”
Over time, skateboarding evolved from a personal hobby into a broader mission. As a member of Pearl Jam, Ament has channeled his success into funding the development of high-quality skate parks across Montana. These facilities, particularly those on Native American reservations, serve as hubs for connection and empowerment. By the end of the year, at least one skate park will be established on each reservation, with construction set to begin on the last one—Northern Cheyenne—within two weeks.
Skateboarding as Art and Activism
Reflecting on the cultural significance of skateboarding, Ament argues that it transcends sport and enters the realm of art. In a Zoom interview with The Associated Press, he emphasized, “I think a lot of people don’t understand artists. I think skateboarding is probably even more of an art than it is a sport.” This perspective aligns with the themes of his new short documentary, Paving the Way, which premiered at the Tribeca Festival. The film showcases how skateboarding fosters creativity, challenges stereotypes, and builds solidarity among Indigenous youth, particularly on the Flathead Reservation.
At the heart of the documentary is the story of Alishon Kelly, a skater who defies odds by continuing her craft despite a broken foot. Through her journey, the film illustrates the resilience of young people in rural areas who find solace and purpose in the act of skating. Directed by Keelan Williams, the documentary was also nominated for the Big Sky Award at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival, highlighting its broader appeal and relevance.
“I think what he captures really well is just, when you have that thing inside of you, you just feel the need to be created. I think it explains it really well, how cathartic it can be, how it helps you understand other aspects of your life.”
Ament’s efforts extend beyond the film. The partnership between his Montana-based company, Montana Pool Service, and the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes has led to the construction of five new skate parks on the Flathead Reservation. These facilities are not just recreational spaces but symbolic projects that reconnect communities with their heritage. “We’re reminding people of our first peoples,” Ament noted. “I think most people in this country have no idea that they even exist. There are even certain people in our government who are trying to rewrite history, erase it.”
Connecting Generations and Expanding Reach
Skateboarding’s impact is particularly evident in its ability to bridge generational gaps. Terrence Lozeau, a skater featured in the film, described the parks as places where younger and older members of the community interact. “These parks are where we come together and where we look out for each other. You see little kids watching the older ones and learning,” he shared.
Ament’s advocacy for skateboarding also includes a focus on education and exploration. Last month, he delivered a commencement speech at MSU-Northern in Montana, encouraging graduates to embrace the world beyond their hometowns. “I think the importance for the graduates is to be open to getting out and seeing the world, even if they come from areas that can seem disconnected,” he said. The speech resonated with students, many of whom expressed a strong desire to pursue opportunities outside their rural roots.
While the Tribeca Festival provided a platform for Paving the Way, Ament hopes the film’s message reaches Indigenous communities directly. Plans are underway to distribute the documentary through platforms like YouTube and PBS, but his priority remains accessibility. “I want to make sure the film is somehow available to those in Indigenous communities,” he said. “It’s about showing them the hope, resilience, and joy that can be found at these skate parks.”
Skateboarding’s role in Indigenous communities is not just about physical activity—it’s a cultural reclamation. For many, it offers a sense of belonging and a way to assert identity in a world that often overlooks their contributions. Ament’s work underscores the idea that skate parks are more than just places to ride; they are spaces for storytelling, mentorship, and collective healing. As the Northern Cheyenne skate park nears completion, the project stands as a testament to the enduring power of grassroots initiatives and the art of perseverance.
