Monday, March 14, 2022 – Tax season woes: tax form avoidance and IRS backlog
As this year’s tax filing deadline approaches, millions of people are still waiting for refunds from the IRS from last year. That’s because a staff shortage and complications from the pandemic have created a massive backlog at the IRS. The agency is hiring thousands of people in the coming weeks to help, but relief might still be a ways off. We’ll have insights into the problem and tips to make the most of your tax forms.
Tuesday, March 15, 2022 – Native American solidarity with Ukraine
Ukraine is a distant Eastern European foreign land. But the invasion by Russia has awakened a sense of solidarity around the world. One expression of support comes from brightly colored headscarves called ‘kokum’ that First Nations tribes traded with Ukrainian immigrants. The scarves extended to tribes well beyond Canada. Many tribes are also expressing support for Ukraine, citing parallels for remaining resilient in the face of aggression for an outside invader.
Wednesday, March 16, 2022 – The continuing Russian influence in Alaska
As Russia works to forcibly annex a neighboring country, it’s instructive to recount its checkered history among Alaska Natives. Russian explorers in the early 18th Century cleared the path for a period of influence that continues today. Alaskan landmarks still bear the names of early Russian settlers and the Russian Orthadox religion remains a touchstone for villages. We’ll get a better understanding of Russian expansion into Alaska and what it means today.
Thursday, March 17, 2022 – A transcontinental link between Native Americans and Ireland
This St. Patrick’s Day we explore the historic links between Ireland and Native Americans – from mutual aid during times of crisis to their shared battle against colonization and the extended trauma that comes with it. We’ll also get a preview of a new musical that tells the story of a Navajo man seeking out his Irish heritage.
Friday, March 18, 2022 – Everything costs more
Affording the basics is becoming harder every day as inflation continues to creep higher. Add to that, the rising costs for gas and lingering supply-chain breakdowns. And a new study reminds us that people of color pay a steeper cost during economic hard times than the rest of the population. We’ll examine where and how inflation is surfacing. We’ll also point out some hopeful signs that put the current financial concerns in context.
