Shows
Native America CallingThursday, July 25, 2024 — Do immigrants pose a threat?The threat of a Donald Trump presidency has prompted hundreds of people from a dozen countries to begin walking to the U.S. border in an attempt to gain access before a potential ban on immigrants. It’s the latest in a surge of recent legal and illegal immigration attempts over the U.S.-Mexico border that is a focus of political campaigns portraying immigrants as a safety threat and a drain on public resources. We’ll hear from tribal representatives about how they view immigration from the southern border.2024-07-2555 minNative America CallingThursday, July 25, 2024 — Do immigrants pose a threat?The threat of a Donald Trump presidency has prompted hundreds of people from a dozen countries to begin walking to the U.S. border in an attempt to gain access before a potential ban on immigrants. It’s the latest in a surge of recent legal and illegal immigration attempts over the U.S.-Mexico border that is a focus of political campaigns portraying immigrants as a safety threat and a drain on public resources. We’ll hear from tribal representatives about how they view immigration from the southern border.2024-07-2555 minNative America CallingWednesday, July 24, 2024 — “Voter security” efforts draw criticism from Native advocatesThe U.S. House of Representatives just upped the ante on voter ID efforts by passing a bill to require proof of citizenship at polling places. Even though the idea lacks support in the Senate, it’s the latest in a relentless drive for more voting restrictions that Native American voting rights advocates say hinder access. In addition, an effort by the Walker River Paiute Tribe for more equitable voting access is getting pushback over security. We’ll get the latest efforts for equitable voting access.2024-07-2455 minNative America CallingWednesday, July 24, 2024 — “Voter security” efforts draw criticism from Native advocatesThe U.S. House of Representatives just upped the ante on voter ID efforts by passing a bill to require proof of citizenship at polling places. Even though the idea lacks support in the Senate, it’s the latest in a relentless drive for more voting restrictions that Native American voting rights advocates say hinder access. In addition, an effort by the Walker River Paiute Tribe for more equitable voting access is getting pushback over security. We’ll get the latest efforts for equitable voting access.2024-07-2455 minNative America CallingTuesday, July 23, 2024 – Finding new relevance in the history of tribal governanceEven before colonial contact, tribal leaders faced life and death decisions, challenges to their authority, and the judgements of their constituency. They also developed a model of governance that informed America's burgeoning democracy. Two Native scholars take a look at the successes and stumbles of tribal leadership throughout history. Some of those provide a guide for today's Native and non-Native leaders. We'll hear from Dr. David E. Wilkins (Lumbee), professor at the University of Richmond and the author of Indigenous Governance, and Stephen Wall (citizen of the White Earth Nation), faculty emeritus in Indigenous Liberal Studies at the Institute of...2024-07-2355 minNative America CallingTuesday, July 23, 2024 – Finding new relevance in the history of tribal governanceEven before colonial contact, tribal leaders faced life and death decisions, challenges to their authority, and the judgements of their constituency. They also developed a model of governance that informed America's burgeoning democracy. Two Native scholars take a look at the successes and stumbles of tribal leadership throughout history. Some of those provide a guide for today's Native and non-Native leaders. We'll hear from Dr. David E. Wilkins (Lumbee), professor at the University of Richmond and the author of Indigenous Governance, and Stephen Wall (citizen of the White Earth Nation), faculty emeritus in Indigenous Liberal Studies at the Institute of...2024-07-2355 minNative America CallingMonday, July 22, 2024 — President Joe Biden drops out & rethinking community landscapingWe'll get a picture of what's ahead for Native voters as Democrats muster support for a new presidential candidate.
Also: The spaces around community buildings, public spaces and campuses reflect the people, culture, and land. At Southern Oregon University, a team of Native landscape architects and planners is including native plants, medicines, and foods for a large section of campus. It's one model for incorporating Native input to connect culture and the larger community.2024-07-2256 minNative America CallingMonday, July 22, 2024 — President Joe Biden drops out & rethinking community landscapingWe'll get a picture of what's ahead for Native voters as Democrats muster support for a new presidential candidate.
Also: The spaces around community buildings, public spaces and campuses reflect the people, culture, and land. At Southern Oregon University, a team of Native landscape architects and planners is including native plants, medicines, and foods for a large section of campus. It's one model for incorporating Native input to connect culture and the larger community.2024-07-2256 minNative America CallingFriday, July 19, 2024 — Wakan Gli: the message from the sacred white buffalo calfAmong the earth's most genetically pure buffalo herds in Yellowstone National Park, a rare white buffalo calf is born. It is considered sacred to surrounding tribes, such as the Lakota, Dakota, Blackfeet, and Shoshone, and was given a name, Wakan Gli, in a naming ceremony. The white calf brings with it a prophecy that some say correctly explains current human struggles with big issues like climate change. We’ll talk with Native culture bearers about the significance of Wakan Gli. We'll also wrap up our eventful week at the Republican National Convention.2024-07-1956 minNative America CallingFriday, July 19, 2024 — Wakan Gli: the message from the sacred white buffalo calfAmong the earth's most genetically pure buffalo herds in Yellowstone National Park, a rare white buffalo calf is born. It is considered sacred to surrounding tribes, such as the Lakota, Dakota, Blackfeet, and Shoshone, and was given a name, Wakan Gli, in a naming ceremony. The white calf brings with it a prophecy that some say correctly explains current human struggles with big issues like climate change. We’ll talk with Native culture bearers about the significance of Wakan Gli. We'll also wrap up our eventful week at the Republican National Convention.2024-07-1956 minNative America CallingThursday, July 18, 2024 – Making the case for a Republican presidentThe Republican National Convention aims to end on a high note with a triumphant nomination acceptance speech by Donald Trump. It’s his first public comments since the assassination attempt over the weekend. The convention is propelling the expected momentum for the candidate, but we’ll bring it back down to earth to talk about what a Trump Presidency would mean for Native Americans.2024-07-1855 minNative America CallingThursday, July 18, 2024 – Making the case for a Republican presidentThe Republican National Convention aims to end on a high note with a triumphant nomination acceptance speech by Donald Trump. It’s his first public comments since the assassination attempt over the weekend. The convention is propelling the expected momentum for the candidate, but we’ll bring it back down to earth to talk about what a Trump Presidency would mean for Native Americans.2024-07-1855 minNative America CallingWednesday, July 17, 2024 – Assessing control of CongressRepublicans hope to build momentum through the week at their national convention to galvanize party faithful—and to convince you to vote for their candidate. Not just the name at the top of the ticket but the Republican candidates to represent you in Congress. But what would a decisive Republican majority in Congress mean for Native American constituents. Are you satisfied with how Congress operates? As the party makes its case on the national stage, we explore what promise and threat Republicans in the legislative branch pose.2024-07-1756 minNative America CallingWednesday, July 17, 2024 – Assessing control of CongressRepublicans hope to build momentum through the week at their national convention to galvanize party faithful—and to convince you to vote for their candidate. Not just the name at the top of the ticket but the Republican candidates to represent you in Congress. But what would a decisive Republican majority in Congress mean for Native American constituents. Are you satisfied with how Congress operates? As the party makes its case on the national stage, we explore what promise and threat Republicans in the legislative branch pose.2024-07-1756 minNative America CallingTuesday, July 16, 2024 – The common ground between Republican and Native American valuesDonald Trump appeared in public for the first time since a serious attempt on his life. Delegates at the Republican National Convention heaped adulation on Trump as the parade of Republican voices tore into President Joe Biden's record. What does the display of Republican values on the national scale look like to Native American voters? Can the momentum from the political spectacle inspire Native votes - and more candidates? We'll hear arguments over what the current direction of the Republican Party means for the average Native American voter.2024-07-1656 minNative America CallingTuesday, July 16, 2024 – The common ground between Republican and Native American valuesDonald Trump appeared in public for the first time since a serious attempt on his life. Delegates at the Republican National Convention heaped adulation on Trump as the parade of Republican voices tore into President Joe Biden's record. What does the display of Republican values on the national scale look like to Native American voters? Can the momentum from the political spectacle inspire Native votes - and more candidates? We'll hear arguments over what the current direction of the Republican Party means for the average Native American voter.2024-07-1656 minNative America CallingMonday, July 15, 2024 – Wisconsin welcomes the Republican National ConventionThe world's attention is gripped by an assassination attempt against Donald J. Trump, as he is preparing to accept his party's nomination in Milwaukee, Wisc. Already a tumultuous race, the violence portends a political event like no other. We’ll be in Milwaukee to hear about what is on the political minds of some of the state’s 11 federally recognized tribes as the November election begins to come into focus.2024-07-1556 minNative America CallingMonday, July 15, 2024 – Wisconsin welcomes the Republican National ConventionThe world's attention is gripped by an assassination attempt against Donald J. Trump, as he is preparing to accept his party's nomination in Milwaukee, Wisc. Already a tumultuous race, the violence portends a political event like no other. We’ll be in Milwaukee to hear about what is on the political minds of some of the state’s 11 federally recognized tribes as the November election begins to come into focus.2024-07-1556 minNative America CallingFriday, July 12, 2024 – Are the economic benefits of tourism worth it?Tourism is big money for many tribes and individual entrepreneurs. But it also has the potential to diminish people’s quality of life. Residents in Juneau, Alaska are considering a limit on the dozens of cruise ships that unload thousands of visitors there every summer. Among other things, critics say the steady stream of outsiders detracts from what they enjoy about living there. Some tribes have closed off tourist attractions altogether. We’ll find out about “overtourism” and ways to avoid it.2024-07-1256 minNative America CallingFriday, July 12, 2024 – Are the economic benefits of tourism worth it?Tourism is big money for many tribes and individual entrepreneurs. But it also has the potential to diminish people’s quality of life. Residents in Juneau, Alaska are considering a limit on the dozens of cruise ships that unload thousands of visitors there every summer. Among other things, critics say the steady stream of outsiders detracts from what they enjoy about living there. Some tribes have closed off tourist attractions altogether. We’ll find out about “overtourism” and ways to avoid it.2024-07-1256 minNative America CallingThursday, July 11, 2024 – How recent Supreme Court rulings affect Native American issues and interestsIn recent weeks, the U.S. Supreme Court has hampered the federal government’s ability to enforce environmental protections and set workplace safety rules, and allows cities to prosecute people without homes for sleeping outside. The rulings are a boon for some tribes and individual Native Americans and a problem for many others. We’ll find out some of the places the court’s apparent new direction helps or hurts the issues that Native Americans deem important.2024-07-1154 minNative America CallingThursday, July 11, 2024 – How recent Supreme Court rulings affect Native American issues and interestsIn recent weeks, the U.S. Supreme Court has hampered the federal government’s ability to enforce environmental protections and set workplace safety rules, and allows cities to prosecute people without homes for sleeping outside. The rulings are a boon for some tribes and individual Native Americans and a problem for many others. We’ll find out some of the places the court’s apparent new direction helps or hurts the issues that Native Americans deem important.2024-07-1154 minNative America CallingWednesday, July 10, 2024 – Tracking and addressing elder cognitive declineMore than half of Native American elders from rural areas have some sort of cognitive impairment, a condition that ranges from mild memory loss all the way to dementia. That’s the conclusion of a new, first-of-its-kind research by The Strong Heart Study over seven years. It focused on members of 11 tribes and included cognitive testing, neurological examinations, and brain imaging. The study points to high rates of vascular disease, diabetes, and traumatic brain injury in Native populations as contributors. We’ll hear about the study, advice for preventing and diagnosing cognitive impairments, and programs aimed at helping elders experiencing symp...2024-07-1055 minNative America CallingWednesday, July 10, 2024 – Tracking and addressing elder cognitive declineMore than half of Native American elders from rural areas have some sort of cognitive impairment, a condition that ranges from mild memory loss all the way to dementia. That’s the conclusion of a new, first-of-its-kind research by The Strong Heart Study over seven years. It focused on members of 11 tribes and included cognitive testing, neurological examinations, and brain imaging. The study points to high rates of vascular disease, diabetes, and traumatic brain injury in Native populations as contributors. We’ll hear about the study, advice for preventing and diagnosing cognitive impairments, and programs aimed at helping elders experiencing symp...2024-07-1055 minNative America CallingTuesday, July 9, 2024 – Notable progress for boarding school survivorsFor the first time, a bill to create a Truth and Healing Commission on Indian boarding schools has reached the floor of the U.S. Senate. A companion bill is working through the U.S. House. The concept of an official panel to look into the abuses of boarding schools has surfaced previously but failed to take hold. The action comes as the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition is launching a database of documents, photographs, and other records to help survivors and others connect understand the full weight of the boarding school era. And an important event to...2024-07-0955 minNative America CallingTuesday, July 9, 2024 – Notable progress for boarding school survivorsFor the first time, a bill to create a Truth and Healing Commission on Indian boarding schools has reached the floor of the U.S. Senate. A companion bill is working through the U.S. House. The concept of an official panel to look into the abuses of boarding schools has surfaced previously but failed to take hold. The action comes as the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition is launching a database of documents, photographs, and other records to help survivors and others connect understand the full weight of the boarding school era. And an important event to...2024-07-0955 minNative America CallingMonday, July 8, 2024 – A Native connection to martial artsGeorge Lepine’s (Plains Cree-Assiniboine) sixth degree black belts in Taekwondo and Hapkido inform his own form of martial arts rooted in traditional Plains Cree fighting styles. Established in 1997, the martial arts system known as Okichitaw includes hand combat training and weaponry like knives, tomahawks, and gunstocks. After decades of teaching, another Native martial arts expert, Chebon Marks (Muscogee), is stepping back from a long martial arts career. Marks, 76, is in the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame; holds two PhDs in Martial Art Science and Philosophy; and is a master in Chinese, Filipino, and multiple Korean fighting styles. He re...2024-07-0856 minNative America CallingMonday, July 8, 2024 – A Native connection to martial artsGeorge Lepine’s (Plains Cree-Assiniboine) sixth degree black belts in Taekwondo and Hapkido inform his own form of martial arts rooted in traditional Plains Cree fighting styles. Established in 1997, the martial arts system known as Okichitaw includes hand combat training and weaponry like knives, tomahawks, and gunstocks. After decades of teaching, another Native martial arts expert, Chebon Marks (Muscogee), is stepping back from a long martial arts career. Marks, 76, is in the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame; holds two PhDs in Martial Art Science and Philosophy; and is a master in Chinese, Filipino, and multiple Korean fighting styles. He re...2024-07-0856 minNative America CallingFriday, July 5, 2024 – One fan’s vision to share his collection of Native musicA Minneapolis Lakota man is developing an archive of music by Native American artists one record and cassette tape at a time. Justis Brokenrope (Sicangu Lakota), founder of Wathéča Records, music curator, DJ, and educator, has already amassed a sizable collection of mostly folk, rock, blues, and country music by Native musicians. Now he’s converting a lot of that music to digital formats to give the music and the artists who created it new recognition. Along the way he’s expanding the conversation about the importance of Native languages. In this encore show, we’ll hear from Justis Brokenro...2024-07-0556 minNative America CallingFriday, July 5, 2024 – One fan’s vision to share his collection of Native musicA Minneapolis Lakota man is developing an archive of music by Native American artists one record and cassette tape at a time. Justis Brokenrope (Sicangu Lakota), founder of Wathéča Records, music curator, DJ, and educator, has already amassed a sizable collection of mostly folk, rock, blues, and country music by Native musicians. Now he’s converting a lot of that music to digital formats to give the music and the artists who created it new recognition. Along the way he’s expanding the conversation about the importance of Native languages. In this encore show, we’ll hear from Justis Brokenro...2024-07-0556 minNative America CallingThursday, July 4, 2024 – Holding police departments accountablePhoenix, Ariz. is the latest city to face federal allegation of police discrimination against Native Americans and other people of color. A U.S. Department of Justice investigation cites serious statistical disparities when it comes to police interacting with and charging Native people compared to other residents. The report also accuses the department of using unnecessary and excessive force. In this encore show, we’ll hear from Native community members about how the report compares with what they know about law enforcement disparities in and around Phoenix, Minneapolis, Minn., and other cities where the Department of Justice has investigated discrimination co...2024-07-0455 minNative America CallingThursday, July 4, 2024 – Holding police departments accountablePhoenix, Ariz. is the latest city to face federal allegation of police discrimination against Native Americans and other people of color. A U.S. Department of Justice investigation cites serious statistical disparities when it comes to police interacting with and charging Native people compared to other residents. The report also accuses the department of using unnecessary and excessive force. In this encore show, we’ll hear from Native community members about how the report compares with what they know about law enforcement disparities in and around Phoenix, Minneapolis, Minn., and other cities where the Department of Justice has investigated discrimination co...2024-07-0455 minNative America CallingWednesday, July 3, 2024 — Native Bookshelf: Conor Kerr’s “Prairie Edge”In Métis author Conor Kerr’s new novel, Prairie Edge, a herd of stolen bison get tangled up in a scheme orchestrated by a fiery Indigenous activist and her aimless young companion. The stunt turns dangerous in a hurry. Kerr’s story dives into two very different Indigenous communities in Edmonton, Alberta through protagonists, Grey and Ezzy, who share a drive for positive change and reconnecting with the land. With both satire and sorrow, Prairie Edge builds readers’ understanding of Indigenous resilience and indignation. Kerr joins us for this installment of Native Bookshelf, our feature on current Indigenous books and auth2024-07-0356 minNative America CallingWednesday, July 3, 2024 — Native Bookshelf: Conor Kerr’s “Prairie Edge”In Métis author Conor Kerr’s new novel, Prairie Edge, a herd of stolen bison get tangled up in a scheme orchestrated by a fiery Indigenous activist and her aimless young companion. The stunt turns dangerous in a hurry. Kerr’s story dives into two very different Indigenous communities in Edmonton, Alberta through protagonists, Grey and Ezzy, who share a drive for positive change and reconnecting with the land. With both satire and sorrow, Prairie Edge builds readers’ understanding of Indigenous resilience and indignation. Kerr joins us for this installment of Native Bookshelf, our feature on current Indigenous books and auth2024-07-0356 minNative America CallingTuesday, July 2, 2024 – Appealing to independent Native votersWhile candidates for the Republican and Democratic parties reign supreme in headlines, there are those Native American voters who aren’t bound by the two-party system. A number of viable candidates for president including Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Dr. Cornel West, and Dr. Jill Stein, who are also working to win Native votes. And there are even some third-party and independent Native candidates in local and national races. We’ll hear from some of the top presidential candidates outside the main two parties about what they offer.2024-07-0255 minNative America CallingTuesday, July 2, 2024 – Appealing to independent Native votersWhile candidates for the Republican and Democratic parties reign supreme in headlines, there are those Native American voters who aren’t bound by the two-party system. A number of viable candidates for president including Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Dr. Cornel West, and Dr. Jill Stein, who are also working to win Native votes. And there are even some third-party and independent Native candidates in local and national races. We’ll hear from some of the top presidential candidates outside the main two parties about what they offer.2024-07-0255 minNative America CallingMonday, July 1, 2024 – Assessing a century of cultural destruction from damsFor the first time, the federal government acknowledges the devastation to Native America tribes caused by a century of dam building on rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The report by the U.S. Department of Interior notes the benefits for the region’s burgeoning population in need of cheap power, irrigation, and steady jobs. But that same push dismissed the needs of the tribes that already occupied the land, resulting in flooding homes and sacred sites, and the decimation of salmon runs, their chief reliable food source.2024-07-0155 minNative America CallingMonday, July 1, 2024 – Assessing a century of cultural destruction from damsFor the first time, the federal government acknowledges the devastation to Native America tribes caused by a century of dam building on rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The report by the U.S. Department of Interior notes the benefits for the region’s burgeoning population in need of cheap power, irrigation, and steady jobs. But that same push dismissed the needs of the tribes that already occupied the land, resulting in flooding homes and sacred sites, and the decimation of salmon runs, their chief reliable food source.2024-07-0155 minNative America CallingFriday, June 28, 2024 — The Menu: Insights into Alaska Native foodways, wellness in the garden, and ag in the classroomIñupiaq and Yup'ik writer Laureli Ivanoff illuminating Alaska Native foodways is recognized with a 2024 James Beard Media Award. Dakota gardener Teresa Peterson’s new book, Perennial Ceremony: Lessons and Gifts from a Dakota Garden, is a tour through the seasons and a story about how gardening, and resulting recipes, affect everyday life, family, healing, and wellness. And a pilot program by the U.S. Bureau of Indian Education at a New Mexico high school puts agriculture into the curriculum. That’s all on The Menu on Native America Calling, a special feature hosted and produced by Andi Murphy.2024-06-2856 minNative America CallingFriday, June 28, 2024 — The Menu: Insights into Alaska Native foodways, wellness in the garden, and ag in the classroomIñupiaq and Yup'ik writer Laureli Ivanoff illuminating Alaska Native foodways is recognized with a 2024 James Beard Media Award. Dakota gardener Teresa Peterson’s new book, Perennial Ceremony: Lessons and Gifts from a Dakota Garden, is a tour through the seasons and a story about how gardening, and resulting recipes, affect everyday life, family, healing, and wellness. And a pilot program by the U.S. Bureau of Indian Education at a New Mexico high school puts agriculture into the curriculum. That’s all on The Menu on Native America Calling, a special feature hosted and produced by Andi Murphy.2024-06-2856 minNative America CallingThursday, June 27, 2024 – The new adventures of Arigon StarrHubert Logan, Mega Bear, Wampum Baggs, and Tad Nugget are all back for Volume 3 of the Super Indian saga. Creator Arigon Starr (Kickapoo and Muscogee Creek) continues the tale of the Native boy who developed super powers after eating commodity cheese tainted with “Rezium”. We’ll talk with Starr about the new comics and what else she’s been up to since the last edition of Super Indian.2024-06-2755 minNative America CallingThursday, June 27, 2024 – The new adventures of Arigon StarrHubert Logan, Mega Bear, Wampum Baggs, and Tad Nugget are all back for Volume 3 of the Super Indian saga. Creator Arigon Starr (Kickapoo and Muscogee Creek) continues the tale of the Native boy who developed super powers after eating commodity cheese tainted with “Rezium”. We’ll talk with Starr about the new comics and what else she’s been up to since the last edition of Super Indian.2024-06-2755 minNative America CallingWednesday, June 26, 2024 – Historic steps to return tribal landThe state of California has agreed to return 2,800 acres of land to the Shasta Indian Nation. It’s not just any 2,800 acres. It was home to the Shasta people, but was flooded by a series of dams in a giant hydroelectric project more than a century ago. And Congress just approved a similar transfer of 1,600 acres of land along the Missouri River for the Winnebago Tribe that the federal government acquired through eminent domain in 1970. We’ll hear about the latest transactions and other noteworthy progress in tribal land returns.2024-06-2655 minNative America CallingWednesday, June 26, 2024 – Historic steps to return tribal landThe state of California has agreed to return 2,800 acres of land to the Shasta Indian Nation. It’s not just any 2,800 acres. It was home to the Shasta people, but was flooded by a series of dams in a giant hydroelectric project more than a century ago. And Congress just approved a similar transfer of 1,600 acres of land along the Missouri River for the Winnebago Tribe that the federal government acquired through eminent domain in 1970. We’ll hear about the latest transactions and other noteworthy progress in tribal land returns.2024-06-2655 minNative America CallingTuesday, June 25, 2024 – Phoenix police face discrimination complaintPhoenix, Ariz. is the latest city to face federal allegation of police discrimination against Native Americans and other people of color. A U.S. Department of Justice investigation cites serious statistical disparities when it comes to police interacting with and charging Native people compared to other residents. The report also accuses the department of using unnecessary and excessive force. We'll hear from Native community members about how the report compares with what they know about law enforcement disparities in and around Phoenix. We'll also talk with Native advocates in other places where the Department of Justice has investigated discrimination complaints.2024-06-2556 minNative America CallingTuesday, June 25, 2024 – Phoenix police face discrimination complaintPhoenix, Ariz. is the latest city to face federal allegation of police discrimination against Native Americans and other people of color. A U.S. Department of Justice investigation cites serious statistical disparities when it comes to police interacting with and charging Native people compared to other residents. The report also accuses the department of using unnecessary and excessive force. We'll hear from Native community members about how the report compares with what they know about law enforcement disparities in and around Phoenix. We'll also talk with Native advocates in other places where the Department of Justice has investigated discrimination complaints.2024-06-2556 minNative America CallingMonday, June 24, 2024 – Native Playlist: Quinn Christopherson and Edzi’uSinger-songwriter Quinn Christopherson (Ahtna Athabascan and Iñupiaq) is on a cross-country tour along with GRAMMY award-winning Alaska (by way of Portland, Ore.) band Portugal. The Man and winning over audiences with his insightful music delivered with passion and a charismatic optimism. Christopherson burst into people’s consciousness after winning the 2019 Tiny Desk Contest. He is part of Alisa Amador’s new single "I Need to Believe" and he collaborated with Pattie Gonia and Yo Yo Ma in what might be the most hopeful song about climate change anyone’s ever heard. Sound artist Edzi’u (Taku River Tlingit and Tahltan) b...2024-06-2456 minNative America CallingMonday, June 24, 2024 – Native Playlist: Quinn Christopherson and Edzi’uSinger-songwriter Quinn Christopherson (Ahtna Athabascan and Iñupiaq) is on a cross-country tour along with GRAMMY award-winning Alaska (by way of Portland, Ore.) band Portugal. The Man and winning over audiences with his insightful music delivered with passion and a charismatic optimism. Christopherson burst into people’s consciousness after winning the 2019 Tiny Desk Contest. He is part of Alisa Amador’s new single "I Need to Believe" and he collaborated with Pattie Gonia and Yo Yo Ma in what might be the most hopeful song about climate change anyone’s ever heard. Sound artist Edzi’u (Taku River Tlingit and Tahltan) b...2024-06-2456 minNative America CallingFriday, June 21, 2024 – Native skateboarding is a big dealSkateboarding has gone from a rebellious alternative culture to an Olympic sport. It’s also becoming increasingly popular among Native athletes and recreational boarders and organizers are stepping up their support with places to skate. Skateboarding has roots in Native Hawaiian surf culture, and Navajo, Hopi, and Oglala Lakota nations are among those that see the benefits of dedicated skate parks. Advocates point to the increasing knowledge about the benefits of skateboarding, especially for young people of color. It’s National Go Skate Day and we’ll hear from skaters and skating advocates about what the sport does for people and co...2024-06-2155 minNative America CallingFriday, June 21, 2024 – Native skateboarding is a big dealSkateboarding has gone from a rebellious alternative culture to an Olympic sport. It’s also becoming increasingly popular among Native athletes and recreational boarders and organizers are stepping up their support with places to skate. Skateboarding has roots in Native Hawaiian surf culture, and Navajo, Hopi, and Oglala Lakota nations are among those that see the benefits of dedicated skate parks. Advocates point to the increasing knowledge about the benefits of skateboarding, especially for young people of color. It’s National Go Skate Day and we’ll hear from skaters and skating advocates about what the sport does for people and co...2024-06-2155 minNative America CallingThursday, June 20, 2024 – South Dakota faces criticism for stereotypes, disparities, and disrespectThe superintendent of schools for Rapid City, S.D. just issued an apology after a federal investigation found “persistent and statistically significant disparities” when it comes to Native American students. The report specifically cited the superintendent saying tribes don’t value education and complaining about Native students running on "Indian time". The report comes after a series of incidents drawing the ire of tribes, including a requirement by the Gov. Kristi Noem (R-SD) Administration that state employees remove their tribal affiliations from email signatures. Is South Dakota peculiar or are they driving a trend?2024-06-2055 minNative America CallingThursday, June 20, 2024 – South Dakota faces criticism for stereotypes, disparities, and disrespectThe superintendent of schools for Rapid City, S.D. just issued an apology after a federal investigation found “persistent and statistically significant disparities” when it comes to Native American students. The report specifically cited the superintendent saying tribes don’t value education and complaining about Native students running on "Indian time". The report comes after a series of incidents drawing the ire of tribes, including a requirement by the Gov. Kristi Noem (R-SD) Administration that state employees remove their tribal affiliations from email signatures. Is South Dakota peculiar or are they driving a trend?2024-06-2055 minNative America CallingWednesday, June 19, 2024 – Focusing on protecting, enhancing digital sovereigntyAs digital technology increasingly becomes the main infrastructure for information and commerce, tribes will need to create an informed strategy to make sure their voices are included. That is one of the driving factors behind the new Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty that just launched by Arizona State University and the National Congress of American Indians. The project will research and help tribes navigate important trends and issues including broadband connectivity, AI, and data privacy protection.2024-06-1955 minNative America CallingWednesday, June 19, 2024 – Focusing on protecting, enhancing digital sovereigntyAs digital technology increasingly becomes the main infrastructure for information and commerce, tribes will need to create an informed strategy to make sure their voices are included. That is one of the driving factors behind the new Center for Tribal Digital Sovereignty that just launched by Arizona State University and the National Congress of American Indians. The project will research and help tribes navigate important trends and issues including broadband connectivity, AI, and data privacy protection.2024-06-1955 minNative America CallingTuesday, June 18, 2024 – A brief but meaningful viewing of Hopi artworkMore than 30 pieces of century-old Hopi pottery, baskets, and other items are making a return visit to the Hopi community, making them available to the descendants of the artists for the first time. The project is called Tuma Angwu Owya. The pieces were originally acquired by a wealthy Massachusetts family who visited the Hopi reservation during cross-country trip in the late 1920s. They forged a lasting relationship with some Hopi community members. Their collection is now housed at Wesleyan University, which is helping facilitate this unique return to their place of origin for a weekend. We’ll talk with the ev...2024-06-1855 minNative America CallingTuesday, June 18, 2024 – A brief but meaningful viewing of Hopi artworkMore than 30 pieces of century-old Hopi pottery, baskets, and other items are making a return visit to the Hopi community, making them available to the descendants of the artists for the first time. The project is called Tuma Angwu Owya. The pieces were originally acquired by a wealthy Massachusetts family who visited the Hopi reservation during cross-country trip in the late 1920s. They forged a lasting relationship with some Hopi community members. Their collection is now housed at Wesleyan University, which is helping facilitate this unique return to their place of origin for a weekend. We’ll talk with the ev...2024-06-1855 minNative America CallingMonday, June 17, 2024 – Advocating for Traditional Ecological KnowledgeIndigenous scientists often have a foot in two worlds: modern science and the wisdom that comes from sacred and traditional knowledge. Each has their strengths and their own bearing on ways to achieve ecological sustainability. First Nations ecologist Dr. Jennifer Grenz, author of Medicine Wheel for the Planet, says Western institutions have the right idea with inclusion — but their methods can still be detrimental to Indigenous scholars and communities.2024-06-1755 minNative America CallingMonday, June 17, 2024 – Advocating for Traditional Ecological KnowledgeIndigenous scientists often have a foot in two worlds: modern science and the wisdom that comes from sacred and traditional knowledge. Each has their strengths and their own bearing on ways to achieve ecological sustainability. First Nations ecologist Dr. Jennifer Grenz, author of Medicine Wheel for the Planet, says Western institutions have the right idea with inclusion — but their methods can still be detrimental to Indigenous scholars and communities.2024-06-1755 minNative America CallingFriday, June 14, 2024 – An artistic relationship to whalesA Massachusetts museum is assembling works to explore how Indigenous people interacted with whales and the marine environment throughout history. The New Bedford Whaling Museum combines a one-woman show by Shinnecock multi-media artist Courtney M. Leonard with a collection of scrimshaw work by Indigenous artists around the country, putting contemporary and historical expressions side by side.2024-06-1456 minNative America CallingFriday, June 14, 2024 – An artistic relationship to whalesA Massachusetts museum is assembling works to explore how Indigenous people interacted with whales and the marine environment throughout history. The New Bedford Whaling Museum combines a one-woman show by Shinnecock multi-media artist Courtney M. Leonard with a collection of scrimshaw work by Indigenous artists around the country, putting contemporary and historical expressions side by side.2024-06-1456 minNative America CallingThursday, June 13, 2024 – Bush Foundation recognizes Indigenous healers with prestigious fellowshipA half dozen Indigenous leaders are getting a boost for incorporating traditional connections with making people and their communities better. The recipients of this year’s Bush Foundation Fellowship include the head of a clinic innovating culturally appropriate care, a Native-led birthing initiative, and a system for helping families affected by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women issue. Each receives a $100,000 grant to develop their work further. We’ll hear from the fellows about their passions and their plans for the future.2024-06-1356 minNative America CallingThursday, June 13, 2024 – Bush Foundation recognizes Indigenous healers with prestigious fellowshipA half dozen Indigenous leaders are getting a boost for incorporating traditional connections with making people and their communities better. The recipients of this year’s Bush Foundation Fellowship include the head of a clinic innovating culturally appropriate care, a Native-led birthing initiative, and a system for helping families affected by the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women issue. Each receives a $100,000 grant to develop their work further. We’ll hear from the fellows about their passions and their plans for the future.2024-06-1356 minNative America CallingWednesday, June 12, 2024 – The inevitable and increasing heat and wildfire threatAn early summer heat wave just scorched the Southwest, breaking high temperature records, and another potentially record-breaking weather system is on it’s way. 2023 was the worst year on record for heat-related deaths in Phoenix, Ariz. A 14-year study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) finds Indigenous populations in the U.S. suffer a higher percentage of heat-related deaths than any other population. NASA is just one of the agencies documenting the increasing frequency of high heat and drought, both of which put fire management officials on alert for the potential of another destructive wildfire season. We’ll f...2024-06-1255 minNative America CallingWednesday, June 12, 2024 – The inevitable and increasing heat and wildfire threatAn early summer heat wave just scorched the Southwest, breaking high temperature records, and another potentially record-breaking weather system is on it’s way. 2023 was the worst year on record for heat-related deaths in Phoenix, Ariz. A 14-year study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) finds Indigenous populations in the U.S. suffer a higher percentage of heat-related deaths than any other population. NASA is just one of the agencies documenting the increasing frequency of high heat and drought, both of which put fire management officials on alert for the potential of another destructive wildfire season. We’ll f...2024-06-1255 minNative America CallingTuesday, June 11, 2024 — Indigenous LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit artists express their prideWhen it’s most relevant, Indigenous art can force people to confront important and tough issues. It’s also a creative window to view the artist’s individuality and identity. We’ll mark that creativity on this Pride Month episode, talking with Indigenous LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit artists about the intersection of two driving issues of identity that are both a celebration and a source of contention.2024-06-1155 minNative America CallingTuesday, June 11, 2024 — Indigenous LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit artists express their prideWhen it’s most relevant, Indigenous art can force people to confront important and tough issues. It’s also a creative window to view the artist’s individuality and identity. We’ll mark that creativity on this Pride Month episode, talking with Indigenous LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit artists about the intersection of two driving issues of identity that are both a celebration and a source of contention.2024-06-1155 minNative America CallingMonday, June 10, 2024 – America’s first universal languageAt one point in history, the various tribes in the Plains region developed a shared universal language. But it didn't rely on the spoken word. Plains Indian Sign Language (PISL), or Hand Talk, was a complex means of communication that spread over a large swatch of North America. It was a way for deaf people to communicate before the invention of American Sign Language (ASL). Colonial intrusion and assimilation policies caused the number of PISL practitioners to drop off drastically. Now, a handful of PISL speakers are trying to revitalize this unique language.2024-06-1056 minNative America CallingMonday, June 10, 2024 – America’s first universal languageAt one point in history, the various tribes in the Plains region developed a shared universal language. But it didn't rely on the spoken word. Plains Indian Sign Language (PISL), or Hand Talk, was a complex means of communication that spread over a large swatch of North America. It was a way for deaf people to communicate before the invention of American Sign Language (ASL). Colonial intrusion and assimilation policies caused the number of PISL practitioners to drop off drastically. Now, a handful of PISL speakers are trying to revitalize this unique language.2024-06-1056 minNative America CallingFriday, June 7, 2024 – A troubling trend for maternal mental healthMental health conditions tops the list of causes for pregnancy-related deaths over a three-year period in a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Calling the problem an “urgent public health crisis”, the Biden Administration is forming a task force to report to Congress about ways to turn the statistics around. We’ll get reports from those who know about mental health treatments for pregnant Native Americans.2024-06-0756 minNative America CallingFriday, June 7, 2024 – A troubling trend for maternal mental healthMental health conditions tops the list of causes for pregnancy-related deaths over a three-year period in a recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Calling the problem an “urgent public health crisis”, the Biden Administration is forming a task force to report to Congress about ways to turn the statistics around. We’ll get reports from those who know about mental health treatments for pregnant Native Americans.2024-06-0756 minNative America CallingThursday, June 6, 2024 – Native Americans and the Democratic PartyNative Americans, in general, have traditionally supported Democrats, and that has made a significant difference in a few key races. Some candidates are reaching out to the Native vote to get them into office, or to keep them in. The historic election of U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola (Yup'ik/D-AK) brings the number of Native Democrats in Congress to the highest it’s ever been: two. We’ll hear from some notable Native Democrats about the issues they see as important to Native voters.2024-06-0653 minNative America CallingThursday, June 6, 2024 – Native Americans and the Democratic PartyNative Americans, in general, have traditionally supported Democrats, and that has made a significant difference in a few key races. Some candidates are reaching out to the Native vote to get them into office, or to keep them in. The historic election of U.S. Rep. Mary Peltola (Yup'ik/D-AK) brings the number of Native Democrats in Congress to the highest it’s ever been: two. We’ll hear from some notable Native Democrats about the issues they see as important to Native voters.2024-06-0653 minNative America CallingWednesday, June 5, 2024 – Correcting Hawaii’s correctional system disparitiesAfter a report in 2011 report on disparities in Hawaii’s criminal justice system, that state has been working on ways to provide more equitable treatment of Native Hawaiians and other people of color. Those include inmate education efforts, cultural outreach, and programs to help inmates re-enter society. As they wait for a pending update to that initial report, organizers of those initiatives say they are making strides in improving the statistics while making their communities safer.2024-06-0556 minNative America CallingWednesday, June 5, 2024 – Correcting Hawaii’s correctional system disparitiesAfter a report in 2011 report on disparities in Hawaii’s criminal justice system, that state has been working on ways to provide more equitable treatment of Native Hawaiians and other people of color. Those include inmate education efforts, cultural outreach, and programs to help inmates re-enter society. As they wait for a pending update to that initial report, organizers of those initiatives say they are making strides in improving the statistics while making their communities safer.2024-06-0556 minNative America CallingTuesday, June 4, 2024 – Summer Playlist: new pop and hip-hopA good playlist makes the summer heat bearable and sets the mood on an invigorating road trip. In his new album titled Stankface Standing Soldier, composer and hip-hop artist Mato Wayuhi brings listeners along on his journey with beats that range from relaxing to energetic and melodic stories that keep you thinking. Toni Heartless mixes hip-hop, punk, and goth genres in a danceable and edgy new album called DARK DAYS. And Juno-award winning artist Celeigh Cardinal summons personal strength in a couple of new singles just ahead of the June 21 release of her newest album, Boundless Possibilities. We’ll talk wi...2024-06-0456 minNative America CallingTuesday, June 4, 2024 – Summer Playlist: new pop and hip-hopA good playlist makes the summer heat bearable and sets the mood on an invigorating road trip. In his new album titled Stankface Standing Soldier, composer and hip-hop artist Mato Wayuhi brings listeners along on his journey with beats that range from relaxing to energetic and melodic stories that keep you thinking. Toni Heartless mixes hip-hop, punk, and goth genres in a danceable and edgy new album called DARK DAYS. And Juno-award winning artist Celeigh Cardinal summons personal strength in a couple of new singles just ahead of the June 21 release of her newest album, Boundless Possibilities. We’ll talk wi...2024-06-0456 minNative America CallingMonday, June 3, 2024 – Prepare for election misinformationIs there really a mass of Chinese immigrants forming an army within the United States? Are there legions of ineligible voters deciding elections? Are the people you disagree with politically getting influenced by Russian agents? Anymore, news consumers can choose where they get their facts from - and increasingly those facts are in dispute. A new poll by the Media Insight Project finds 53% of those asked think news organizations will report inaccuracies or misinformation about the upcoming election. We will get some clues about what Native news consumers should look out for, and what news organizations could do to restore...2024-06-0356 minNative America CallingMonday, June 3, 2024 – Prepare for election misinformationIs there really a mass of Chinese immigrants forming an army within the United States? Are there legions of ineligible voters deciding elections? Are the people you disagree with politically getting influenced by Russian agents? Anymore, news consumers can choose where they get their facts from - and increasingly those facts are in dispute. A new poll by the Media Insight Project finds 53% of those asked think news organizations will report inaccuracies or misinformation about the upcoming election. We will get some clues about what Native news consumers should look out for, and what news organizations could do to restore...2024-06-0356 minNative America CallingFriday, May 31, 2024 – 100 years of American citizenshipU.S. citizenship was not a given for the people who occupied the land before there was a United States. Nor was the idea universally welcomed by all Native nations. Citizenship ensured the right to vote in national elections and equal protection under the Constitution. But it also required relinquishing a measure of sovereignty, something the Onondaga Nation and the Haudenosaunee refuse to recognize to this day. A century after President Calvin Coolidge signed the Indian Citizenship Act, we’ll look at the strengths and sacrifices of becoming American citizens.2024-05-3156 minNative America CallingFriday, May 31, 2024 – 100 years of American citizenshipU.S. citizenship was not a given for the people who occupied the land before there was a United States. Nor was the idea universally welcomed by all Native nations. Citizenship ensured the right to vote in national elections and equal protection under the Constitution. But it also required relinquishing a measure of sovereignty, something the Onondaga Nation and the Haudenosaunee refuse to recognize to this day. A century after President Calvin Coolidge signed the Indian Citizenship Act, we’ll look at the strengths and sacrifices of becoming American citizens.2024-05-3156 minNative America CallingThursday, May 30, 2024 – Basketball is in the airBasketball fans are glued to their teams’ performance in the NBA conference finals, with at least two Native players still battling for the title. And the WNBA just started its season, welcoming Minnesota Lynx draft pick Alissa Pili (Iñupiaq and Samoan) onto the court. We’ll hear from Pili, as well as University of Houston Coach Kelvin Sampson (Lumbee), who the AP just named Coach of the Year, along with some other perspectives on Native representation on the court.2024-05-3056 minNative America CallingThursday, May 30, 2024 – Basketball is in the airBasketball fans are glued to their teams’ performance in the NBA conference finals, with at least two Native players still battling for the title. And the WNBA just started its season, welcoming Minnesota Lynx draft pick Alissa Pili (Iñupiaq and Samoan) onto the court. We’ll hear from Pili, as well as University of Houston Coach Kelvin Sampson (Lumbee), who the AP just named Coach of the Year, along with some other perspectives on Native representation on the court.2024-05-3056 minNative America CallingWednesday, May 29, 2024 – Native Americans and the Republican PartyMost polls over the years show Native Americans’ substantial support for Democrats. But that hasn’t stopped strong representation in Congress by Native Republicans. That includes U.S. Rep. Tom Cole (Chickasaw Nation/R-OK), who recently took the reins of the powerful House Appropriations Committee. He is also the longest-serving Native congressman in history. We’ll get perspectives from some notable Native Republicans about what they see the party does for their Native constituents in the first of a series of profiles shedding light on political positions heading into the general election.2024-05-2956 minNative America CallingWednesday, May 29, 2024 – Native Americans and the Republican PartyMost polls over the years show Native Americans’ substantial support for Democrats. But that hasn’t stopped strong representation in Congress by Native Republicans. That includes U.S. Rep. Tom Cole (Chickasaw Nation/R-OK), who recently took the reins of the powerful House Appropriations Committee. He is also the longest-serving Native congressman in history. We’ll get perspectives from some notable Native Republicans about what they see the party does for their Native constituents in the first of a series of profiles shedding light on political positions heading into the general election.2024-05-2956 minNative America CallingTuesday, May 28, 2024 – The Menu: SW in Portland, Navajo livestock reduction, and cicadasAlexa Numkena-Anderson (Hopi, Yakama, Cree, Skokomish) shares a bit of Southwest flare with Pacific Northwest flavors—to match her tribal identity—through her pop-up food business, Javelina: Indigenous Dining in Portland, Ore. A rare confluence of periodical cicadas is a nutritional gift and a reminder of resilience for some tribes in Southeast states. And “Nothing Left for Me,” a new museum exhibit at the University of New Mexico’s Maxwell Museum of Anthropology, documents Diné perspectives on the devastating effects of the federal government’s 1930s Navajo livestock reduction program. That’s on The Menu on Native America Calling, a feature about N...2024-05-2855 minNative America CallingTuesday, May 28, 2024 – The Menu: SW in Portland, Navajo livestock reduction, and cicadasAlexa Numkena-Anderson (Hopi, Yakama, Cree, Skokomish) shares a bit of Southwest flare with Pacific Northwest flavors—to match her tribal identity—through her pop-up food business, Javelina: Indigenous Dining in Portland, Ore. A rare confluence of periodical cicadas is a nutritional gift and a reminder of resilience for some tribes in Southeast states. And “Nothing Left for Me,” a new museum exhibit at the University of New Mexico’s Maxwell Museum of Anthropology, documents Diné perspectives on the devastating effects of the federal government’s 1930s Navajo livestock reduction program. That’s on The Menu on Native America Calling, a feature about N...2024-05-2855 minNative America CallingMonday, May 27, 2024 – Finding SasquatchSasquatch, also called Bigfoot, has captured the popular collective imagination around the globe for decades. But in addition to their pop icon status, Sasquatch have a deeper meaning for many Native American cultures. The name that’s often used most likely comes from the Coast Salish word “Sasq’ets.” The Sts'ailes First Nation in Canada consider Sasquatch to be a caretaker of the land. A new exhibition at the High Desert Museum in Bend, Ore. showcases work by Native artists inspired by Sasquatch. We’ll get a peek at the exhibition along with some context of the enduring cultural connection.2024-05-2759 minNative America CallingMonday, May 27, 2024 – Finding SasquatchSasquatch, also called Bigfoot, has captured the popular collective imagination around the globe for decades. But in addition to their pop icon status, Sasquatch have a deeper meaning for many Native American cultures. The name that’s often used most likely comes from the Coast Salish word “Sasq’ets.” The Sts'ailes First Nation in Canada consider Sasquatch to be a caretaker of the land. A new exhibition at the High Desert Museum in Bend, Ore. showcases work by Native artists inspired by Sasquatch. We’ll get a peek at the exhibition along with some context of the enduring cultural connection.2024-05-2759 minNative America CallingFriday, May 24, 2024 – Remembering Native American World War II veteransThe world is gearing up for the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion of Normandy. Of course, that decisive military action by Allied forces was more than just one day and was supported by actions across Europe. We’ll hear about what the war was like for Native Americans who served, and get a profile of one of the infantry divisions that had among the highest percentage of Native enlisted members in the military.2024-05-2456 minNative America CallingFriday, May 24, 2024 – Remembering Native American World War II veteransThe world is gearing up for the 80th anniversary of the D-Day invasion of Normandy. Of course, that decisive military action by Allied forces was more than just one day and was supported by actions across Europe. We’ll hear about what the war was like for Native Americans who served, and get a profile of one of the infantry divisions that had among the highest percentage of Native enlisted members in the military.2024-05-2456 minNative America CallingThursday, May 23, 2024 – Native American mothers face child support cut-offsChild support payments could be cut for hundreds of Native American mothers. The looming change revolves around a debate in Congress over access to private IRS information. Child support enforcement efforts use that information to garnish tax refunds going to non-custodial parents. It's a system that reroutes some $2 billion across the country every year. But tribes fall into a special category that would prevent them from solutions that non-tribal agencies are able to use. North Dakota tribes have already had such child support payments cut off because of an IRS directive, but that decision is now reversed. We'll hear about...2024-05-2356 minNative America CallingThursday, May 23, 2024 – Native American mothers face child support cut-offsChild support payments could be cut for hundreds of Native American mothers. The looming change revolves around a debate in Congress over access to private IRS information. Child support enforcement efforts use that information to garnish tax refunds going to non-custodial parents. It's a system that reroutes some $2 billion across the country every year. But tribes fall into a special category that would prevent them from solutions that non-tribal agencies are able to use. North Dakota tribes have already had such child support payments cut off because of an IRS directive, but that decision is now reversed. We'll hear about...2024-05-2356 minNative America CallingWednesday, May 22, 2024 – The Sámi reindeer connection in AlaskaReindeer weren’t always in Alaska, but now there’s a strong connection for Alaska Native herders. It all started in 1891, when the U.S. Government signed onto a plan by a Presbyterian missionary to recruit Indigenous European Sami people in order to spark economic development and relieve food insecurity in Alaska. The program took off, but was greatly hampered by subsequent policy decisions. Somewhere along the way, the Arctic reindeer herding lifestyle meshed well with the state’s Iñupiaq and Yup’ik residents.2024-05-2255 minNative America CallingWednesday, May 22, 2024 – The Sámi reindeer connection in AlaskaReindeer weren’t always in Alaska, but now there’s a strong connection for Alaska Native herders. It all started in 1891, when the U.S. Government signed onto a plan by a Presbyterian missionary to recruit Indigenous European Sami people in order to spark economic development and relieve food insecurity in Alaska. The program took off, but was greatly hampered by subsequent policy decisions. Somewhere along the way, the Arctic reindeer herding lifestyle meshed well with the state’s Iñupiaq and Yup’ik residents.2024-05-2255 minNative America CallingTuesday, May 21, 2024 – Your summer Native reading guideThere’s something for everybody on the summer reading lists by our expert panel of Native super-readers. From supernatural slashers to memoirs to poetry, there is an abundance of Native literature available right now to put in your backpack or beach bag. From the usual big names and a few hidden treasures, we’ll have ideas for you to stock up on the printed word.2024-05-2155 minNative America CallingTuesday, May 21, 2024 – Your summer Native reading guideThere’s something for everybody on the summer reading lists by our expert panel of Native super-readers. From supernatural slashers to memoirs to poetry, there is an abundance of Native literature available right now to put in your backpack or beach bag. From the usual big names and a few hidden treasures, we’ll have ideas for you to stock up on the printed word.2024-05-2155 minNative America CallingMonday, May 20, 2024 – Native in the Spotlight: Edgar BlatchfordEdgar Blatchford (Iñupiaq and Yup'ik), former journalist and professor, has served as Alaska’s economic development commissioner for the Frank Murkowski Administration. He was also the mayor of Seward, Alaska. He’s a college educator and oversaw a news publishing network. He’s an outspoken advocate for reforming Alaska Native corporations. We’ll hear from Blatchford about his ideas for improving the world around him.2024-05-2056 minNative America CallingMonday, May 20, 2024 – Native in the Spotlight: Edgar BlatchfordEdgar Blatchford (Iñupiaq and Yup'ik), former journalist and professor, has served as Alaska’s economic development commissioner for the Frank Murkowski Administration. He was also the mayor of Seward, Alaska. He’s a college educator and oversaw a news publishing network. He’s an outspoken advocate for reforming Alaska Native corporations. We’ll hear from Blatchford about his ideas for improving the world around him.2024-05-2056 minNative America CallingFriday, May 17, 2024 – After 30 years, a new challenge to car license sovereigntyThis time every year for the past 30 years the Sac and Fox Nation takes a day to celebrate a momentous U. S. Supreme Court decision affirming the tribe’s right to issue vehicle license plates to its citizens. The tribal tags are an important expression of sovereignty and it generates revenue for education and other programs. Dozens of tribes in and outside of Oklahoma now extend their authority to motor vehicle tags. But Oklahoma tribes say that authority is under fire like never before. Tribal citizens are having to defend what tribal officials say is an increase in targeted stops an...2024-05-1756 minNative America CallingFriday, May 17, 2024 – After 30 years, a new challenge to car license sovereigntyThis time every year for the past 30 years the Sac and Fox Nation takes a day to celebrate a momentous U. S. Supreme Court decision affirming the tribe’s right to issue vehicle license plates to its citizens. The tribal tags are an important expression of sovereignty and it generates revenue for education and other programs. Dozens of tribes in and outside of Oklahoma now extend their authority to motor vehicle tags. But Oklahoma tribes say that authority is under fire like never before. Tribal citizens are having to defend what tribal officials say is an increase in targeted stops an...2024-05-1756 min