Monday, May 17, 2021 – Hope for clean water infrastructure
President Joe Biden proposes $111 billion to help solve persistent drinking water access problems, including for tribes. The Water & Tribes Initiative found the Navajo Nation and other tribes in the Colorado River Basin are up to 67 times more likely to lack running water compared to other Americans. Researchers recommend sustainable and comprehensive water projects with assistance from the federal agencies to address the long-standing problem. Biden’s plan offers hope but there’s no guarantee it will get through Congress.
Tuesday, May 18, 2021 – Billions to the rescue
Tribal efforts to fight COVID-19, bolstering the Indian Health Service and tribal housing programs are among the biggest beneficiaries of the federal $31.2 billion coronavirus relief package approved in March. It is the largest chunk of money ever distributed to tribes from Congress. Authors of the bill hope to avoid the confusion from the last relief package over whether for-profit Alaska Native Corporations are eligible. We’ll talk with tribal leaders and others about how this round of funding could offset pandemic health and economic setbacks.
Wednesday, May 19, 2021 – Native in the spotlight: Dr. Pearl Kiyawn Brower
Dr. Pearl Kiyawn Brower (Inupiat) is an education leader in Alaska. She served as president of Iḷisaġvik College, the only tribal college in the state, for more than seven years. She took the job when her child was just six weeks old. In all, she served the college as an administrator for 12 years. She was also in the running to be the chancellor of the University of Alaska Anchorage. We’ll learn about Brower’s educational journey and her vision to help Native students succeed.
Thursday, May 20, 2021 – Music Maker: Russell Wallace
We turn our musical gaze to the work of Lil’wat artist Russell Wallace. His new album, “Unceded Tongues” is a mix of pop, jazz and blues that’s sure to wake up the senses. It includes tracks that explore the beauty of the St’át’imc language. Much of the album is a tribute to the gifts his ancestors passed on to him, including the words of his mother. We’ll hear how he is blending contemporary sounds with the resilience of his culture.
Friday, May 21, 2021 – Stray dog rescues
Stray or feral dogs are a fixture in many Native communities. They often have to fend for themselves and suffer injuries and mistreatment. With no one responsible for spay and neutering, their populations can get out of hand. But groups like Save Rez Dogs in Canada and Crownpoint Animal House in New Mexico are dedicated to the health and wellbeing of these animals and encouraging positive animal management through community education and advocacy.
