Monday, October 4, 2021 – New fossil discoveries and Indigenous origins
Newly discovered fossilized human footprints issue another blow to the conventional scientific theory about when humans came to North America. Many tribes have pushed back against the so-called land bridge across the Bering Strait theory because it conflicts with traditional knowledge. The new fossil evidence could add weight to their case. We’ll talk with Indigenous archaeologists about the new scientific revelations and inclusion of Indigenous knowledge in archaeological science.
Tuesday, October 5, 2021 – Keeping Indigenous elders healthy and connected
Elders are already at risk for isolation. The pandemic only worsened the problem as the best way to protect them from the threat of COVID-19 is to keep them separated from other people. But that isolation can increase the risk of serious illnesses like heart disease and stroke and mental health issues like anxiety and depression, according to the CDC. The National Indian Council On Aging launched the Connected Indigenous Elders campaign to keep elders engaged. We’ll hear about the program and what families and communities can do make sure elders are connected and healthy.
Wednesday, October 6, 2021 – Slavery from an Indigenous perspective
The scourge of slavery was an unfortunate reality for Indigenous people in the history of North America. Spanish colonizers set in motion a complicated legacy of slavery throughout the Americas that changed identity, culture and relationships forever. We’ll talk about the history and legacy of Indigenous slavery and get insights from speakers with the National Museum of the American Indian’s symposium, “The Other Slavery: Histories of Indian Bondage from New Spain to the Southwestern United States.”
Thursday, October 7, 2021 – Aquaculture for profit and the planet
Farming kelp provides a nutritious food source as well as habitat for sea creatures further up the food chain. It’s also a potentially profitable venture for some coastal tribes. That’s just one of the plants and animals that show promise for cultivation for economic development. And aquaculture connects to traditional Indigenous methods while also fitting in with efforts to offer long-term employment solutions that are environmentally sustainable.
Friday, October 8, 2021 – The push to protect sacred land in Nevada
Tribes in Nevada are among those turning to the federal government to permanently protect almost 400,000 acres of land with a National Monument designation. The area known as Avi Kwa Ame is sacred or culturally significant to at least 10 tribes. There’s pressure from developers who want to establish wind energy farms that supporters of the protections say would significantly harm the beauty and cultural importance of the landscape.
