Monday, November 11, 2019 – Warrior tradition
Despite pervasive mistrust of the U.S. government, Native Americans are well represented in the military. A new documentary premiering on PBS, Warrior Tradition, examines the history of Native American military service and explores the reasons Native men and women enlist at higher rates than other populations. We’ll hear directly from veterans and also talk with those involved with the film.
Tuesday, November 12, 2019 – The wrong message for Native college students
The president of the University of Arizona got an education of his own after insisting he had Native ancestry because of his “high cheek bones.” Robert C. Robbins was speaking to a class of Native students when he mentioned his online DNA test must be wrong because it did not show any Native heritage. He prefaced the remark by saying he didn’t want to “pull an Elizabeth Warren.” He’s since apologized, but many on campus are left wondering how those in the highest ranks of academia can still be so tone deaf. Native students are using the opportunity to elevate the conversation about making college campuses more welcoming.
Wednesday, November 13, 2019 – Can prison reform benefit Native offenders?
Oklahoma released more than 400 non-violent inmates from prison earlier this month. Most of them had a little over a year left on their sentences. It’s the result of reform efforts to reduce overcrowding, cut costs and promote self-sufficiency for low-level prisoners. It calls attention to other reform ideas to try and end the cycle of incarceration for Native Americans and other populations that are over-represented in the prison system.
Thursday, November 14, 2019 – Maori connection with Native American knowledge
A cross-cultural program connects Maori master’s students with Native Americans to provide international context for leadership training. A delegation of two dozen students and faculty from New Zealand’s University of Canterbury’s School of Maori and Indigenous Studies explore the similarities and differences in Native governance, social structure, language, arts and economic opportunities. Members of the group will share what they’re learning and how they see the program benefits their work to connect with and improve their own cultures.
Friday, November 15, 2019 – Eight years of Rock Your Mocs
It started as a way to show Native pride. Now in its 8th year, the Rock Your Mocs celebration has grown well beyond its social media hashtag origins. Every year the Rock Your Mocs day adds events and inspiration around the country. We’ll hear from one of the original founders, Jessica “Jaylyn” Atsye (Laguna Pueblo), about what’s new and ways the message is resonating with Native nations.
