Monday, October 30, 2017 – Jill and N. Scott Momaday on Return to Rainy Mountain
Kiowa poet and author N. Scott Momaday and his daughter, Jill, retrace his life and the footsteps of their ancestors in the documentary film Return to Rainy Mountain. N. Scott Momaday is the the Pulitzer Prize winning author of such books as “House Made of Dawn,” “The Ancient Child,” and “The Way to Rainy Mountain.” Jill wrote, produced and directed the film, which is airing on PBS stations.
Tuesday, October 31, 2017 – The lessons of spiders
It’s a creepy, crawly time of year and there are few creatures that spark fearful reactions as much as spiders. But the arachnid is also a critical part of many traditional origin stories. Spiders also have lessons to teach in many cultures. Spider Woman is critical to the Navajo creation story. For Lakota, it is Iktomi, a trickster who takes many forms and often plays the role of a fool.
Wednesday, November 1, 2017 – The slow progress of boarding school reconciliation
In Canada, an apology, $2 billion, and a truth and reconciliation commission are all part of addressing the disastrous effects of residential schools. In the U.S., there are individuals and non-profit groups working towards boarding school reconciliation, but nothing from a government level. The legacy of boarding schools is still something that many Native Nations are struggling to address.
Thursday, November 2, 2017 — After the hurricane: Indigenous people in Puerto Rico
More than a month after Hurricane Maria tore through Puerto Rico, some people are still without electricity and clean water. More than 50 people died because of the storm. Indigenous people from Puerto Rico are among those who are struggling to return to normal. Puerto Rican and Indigenous Taino people on the mainland are working to muster financial support and direct aid.
Friday, November 3, 2017 – Looking ahead to retirement
Native Americans save the least amount of money for retirement compared to all other groups. That’s the sobering statistic from the Social Security Office of Retirement and Disability Policy. Researchers say it’s because Native people face “substantial economic challenges.” Fortunately, Native elders have a network of tribal-run programs they can utilize during retirement that include Meals on Wheels and help with winter heating.
