Monday, August 16, 2021 – Limiting Indigenous history in schools
South Dakota’s Department of Education drastically reduced the number of references to Oceti Sakowin in school social studies standards recommended by a working group of educators, public officials and parents. That would limit lessons on important concepts like treaties, the development of the state’s reservations and key historical figures. At the same time, tribes in Montana are suing the state for failing to adequately comply with a constitutional mandate to integrate Indigenous lessons into public education.
Tuesday, August 17, 2021 – A new round of Native stories on film
Native filmmakers from more than two dozen tribes are ready working on a number of film projects. When finished, the documentaries, short films and episodic series supported by Vision Maker Media will broadcast on PBS. The subjects include Native doctors working through the COVID-19 pandemic, the decline of wild salmon, traditional fire management and confronting gender norms. We’ll hear from filmmakers and representatives from Vision Maker Media about the projects and the power of Native documentary film.
Wednesday, August 18, 2021 – Is a normal school year ahead?
Native students are heading back into classrooms. After more than a year of forced distance learning and canceled events because of the pandemic, there was some excitement about resuming regular K-12 and post-secondary classes. But new COVID-19 variants and inconsistent vaccinations and mask-wearing requirements prompt concern and confusion as the school year starts.
Thursday, August 19, 2021 – The resilience of Native culture
Native people across the country are learning to adjust to life in the pandemic after a bumpy road this past year. Over the next two days, we’re going to be lifting up Indigenous people, culture, and traditions. We’re bringing in Native artists to reflect on the hardship of the pandemic, talk about the resiliency of Indigenous people, and shine a bright light on the future. Hundreds of artists from Native Nations are gathering in Santa Fe, New Mexico for markets, events and festivals featuring arts and crafts, food, fashion, music, film and more.
Friday, August 20, 2021 – Indigenous arts and the lingering pandemic
It’s a big week coming up in the Native arts world. The largest assembly of Native artists is resuming in Santa Fe on a limited scale. The Santa Fe Indian Market was an online-only event last year because of the pandemic. A number of other in-person events are also scheduled, all featuring the talents of Native artists, many of whom lost their primary or supplemental incomes over the last year. We’ll get a look at what’s in store and hear from artists who had to find creative ways to stay afloat.
