Monday, April 22, 2019 – The plastics pollution problem
About a 300 U.S. cities and two states have banned single-use plastic bags. Seminole Gaming is phasing out plastic straws at their casinos, resorts and restaurants in Florida. The actions are an attempt to limit plastic waste that is posing an increasing threat to whales, turtles, seabirds and other animals. Some tribes are also worried plastics pollution affects their health and sustenance. Researchers with Ikaarvik in the Arctic are sampling ocean waters for micro plastics pollution and checking whether it’s affecting Indigenous residents. On Earth Day, we’ll take a look at how plastics pollution is affecting Native communities and what’s being done about it.
Tuesday, April 23, 2019 – Gradual progress on graduation regalia
North Dakota just joined the handful of states guaranteeing Native students’ right to wear regalia during graduation ceremonies. It’s one of the highlights in the annual struggle to include eagle feathers and beaded mortar boards in commencement. Some schools adhere to strict dress codes and forbid students from adorning the traditional caps and gowns. The Native American Rights Fund sees it as an issue of free speech and religious expression. We’ll get a rundown of recent victories and setbacks toward recognizing the cultural significance of regalia at graduation.
Wednesday, April 24 2019 – Developing a trauma-informed perspective
Understanding and acknowledging past trauma can help guide how to interact with each other. For Native Americans it can inform how the history of colonialism might influence a person’s reaction to certain words or behaviors. Experts are developing methods for approaching situations in schools, offices and businesses from a trauma-informed perspective to avoid conflict, de-escalate tension and promote healing. In this hour we’ll talk with professionals about what trauma-informed approaches look like.
Thursday, April 25, 2019 – Music Maker: Leela Gilday
Dene Nation folk singer Leela Gilday was raised in Canada’s Northwest Territories and her love for the area come through in her songs. We welcome Leela as our April Music Maker artist. She’ll share music from her much-anticipated upcoming album, “North Star Calling” which is about healing as well as cultural resurgence. Feel the power of her music that she says is a source for strengthening family and connecting generations.
Friday, April 26, 2019 – Live at the Gathering of Nations Powwow
Organizers bill it as the ‘world’s largest powwow.’ This year’s Gathering of Nations Powwow in Albuquerque is again expected to draw thousands of powwow dancers and spectators from across the country. We’re broadcasting live from the arena to connect you with the drums, dances, events and music.
