Monday, October 29, 2018 – More problematic auctions
A New Jersey auction house pulled several cultural Native American items from an upcoming sale. The Association on American Indian Affairs requested they be removed from the auction block, although it’s unclear where the items came from or if they are, in fact, sacred. It’s the latest incident in a long line of recent struggles between tribes and auction houses over sacred and culturally important items being offered to the highest bidder.

Tuesday, October 30, 2018 – Traditional fiddle music with an Athabascan twist
European fur traders first brought fiddle music to Alaska more than 150 years ago by way of the Hudson Bay Company. Now it’s grown into a style of music all itself, with additional influences from miners and Alaska Natives. This week, the Athabascan Fiddle Festival commemorates its 36^th year in Fairbanks. We’ll learn more about the music’s unique history, what we can expect at this year’s festival and hear some of the event’s notable fiddlers.

Wednesday, October 31, 2018 – Truly scary costumes
It’s the time of year when Native people brace for the commercial costumes that others don at Halloween parties. They’re scary in a different way. Scantily-clad Native “princesses” and Indian “maidens” in buckskin bikinis and cheap headdresses are among the classics that remain popular. NBC host Megyn Kelly is under fire for publicly wondering what’s wrong with “blackface” costumes. Uproar by fans of the TV series “Handmaid’s Tale” got one company to pull a version of the show’s signature red, hooded robes. But for Native Americans, it’s another year of head-shaking over inappropriate costumes.

Thursday, November 1, 2018 – Dia de los Muertos: An Indigenous celebration
Dia de los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, comes from the Aztec celebration of loved ones who’ve walked on. It’s now a Mexican holiday with customs and traditions that are catching on in the United States. But the American version is often more about sugar skull imagery and less about the original intent.

Friday, November 2, 2018 – Live at the Indigenous Comic Con
The biggest names in Native comics return to New Mexico for the third annual Indigenous Comic Con. The place will be crawling with celebrities, artists, cosplayers, and Indigi-nerds. This year’s panel discussions touch on Indigenous futurisms, women in comics, and decolonizing wealth. We’ll be live with a diverse line-up of guests for a provocative preview and an enlightening conversation about the newest

Monday, October 22, 2018 – “Will you marry me?”
From an orchestrated flash mob to a traditional appeal to the prospective bride’s family, there are plenty of ways to pop the question. Traditional Native customs might include exchanging goods or seeking consent from extended family members. Either way, asking “will you marry me” is meant to be—and usually is—a memorable occasion. We’ll hear about some modern proposals and review the history of certain tribal practices. We’ll also get advice about when a relationship is ready to go to the next level.

Tuesday, October 23, 2018 – The science and politics of DNA
Tribal leaders, Native politicians, researchers and activists all piled on a heavy helping of backlash when Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren revealed her DNA results. Her attempts at having the last, scientific word followed years of insults by Donald Trump, going back to even before he was elected president, mocking her decision to claim Native heritage. She has her defenders, but Warren managed to inflame one feud while trying to settle another.

Wednesday, October 24, 2018 – The other S-word
Activists are publicly deriding an online clothing store called “The Spunky Squaw.” The business has been around more than a year, but was reviled on social media only recently. The business owner, a college student, is holding her ground, insisting the term ‘squaw’ is not offensive. We’ll examine the history and current meaning of the word with historians and activists.

Thursday, October 25, 2018 – Canada cannabis and consultation
Canada’s decision to legalize recreational marijuana has set up a jurisdictional dispute among some First Nations. The Sakamay First Nation and several others say they have no intention of seeking provincial permission to establish cannabis operations as required by the new law. At the same time, other Aboriginal peoples are heralding the end of the cannabis prohibition as a boost to their own economic ventures. Are there lessons for the future of U.S. cannabis policy?

Friday, October 26, 2018 – October In The News
The Indian Child Welfare Act is unconstitutional according to a Texas circuit court judge. The ruling has advocates and Indian legal experts on high alert. It’s good news bad news for Native elected officials in Alaska. Valerie Nurr’araaluk Davidson becomes the highest ranking Native woman in state government history. But she ascends to the lieutenant governor’s seat only after a Native man, Byron Mallott, resigns after making “inappropriate comments.” We’ll delve into these topics and hear about ways tribes are doing to address potential voter suppression in North Dakota.

Monday, October 15, 2018 – You’re outta here, Chief Wahoo (sort of)
Chief Wahoo, the offensive red-faced logo for the Cleveland Indians Major League Baseball team, made its last appearance on the team’s jerseys and ballpark this month. It’s one step closer toward erasing the mascot that Native organizations and other Indian mascot opponents have been fighting for decades. But Cleveland fans will still be able to purchase team merchandise with the logo and many vow to wear the symbol in the stands. We’ll check in on the effort to get the message across about offensive logos.

Tuesday, October 16, 2018 – Native parents and Down syndrome
Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal disorder. One out of every 700 babies are born with it, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. People with Down syndrome have a wide range of developmental and cognitive impairments and are at increased risk of health problems like hearing loss and heart abnormalities. At the same time they have all the emotions and joys in life as anybody else. We’ll talk with Native parents about the joys and challenges of raising a Down syndrome child and hear from therapists about the most promising approaches for parents and kids.

Wednesday, October 17, 2018 – The Native vote
The midterm election is fast approaching. Some states are already accepting early and absentee voting. The number of Native candidates on ballots around the country could boost turnout. At the same time there are a number of new constraints that could hinder Native voters. Objections by tribes and Native organizations weren’t enough to stop a North Dakota law requiring a physical addresses in IDs which could inhibit thousands of Native voters. We’ll discuss some of the barriers Native voter might encounter when the go to the polls. We’ll also discuss the choice some Natives make to not vote. Will you be voting this election? Tweet us @180099Native

Thursday, October 18, 2018 – Writing your way into college
It’s around this time of year that high school seniors start dreading the box on their college application reserved for a personal essay. It typically involves turning a personal story into a narrative about overcoming adversity or finding a creative way to solve a problem. It usually requires the ability to “humble brag,” a skill that often takes a little practice. The good news is the college application survey can give admissions officials a sense of who you are beyond grades and test scores.

Friday, October 19, 2018 – Budgeting your way to financial health
Personal finance experts will tell you following a monthly budget is one of the most important steps for managing your money. But starting and sticking to that budget takes discipline. That doesn’t mean you have to give up eating out once in a while or treating yourself to a stylish new jacket. There are even ways to get on top of emergency expenses. We’ll talk with finance gurus and ordinary folks about managing debits and credits and needs versus wants as a way to get on top of personal spending.

Monday, October 8, 2018 – Indigenous Peoples Day momentum
It’s that time of the year when Christopher Columbus is celebrated with a mandated federal holiday. But the number of cities, counties and even states commemorating Indigenous Peoples Day instead is a testament to the work toward exposing Columbus’ full historical context. Los Angeles, Tacoma, Washington, and Oklahoma City are among the more recent additions to the Indigenous Peoples Day momentum. We’ll open up our own celebration of Indigenous people and hear from folks across the nation about their plans for the day. Email us at comments@nativeamericacalling.com.

Tuesday, October 9, 2018 – A kernel of culture
Corn plays a variety of major roles in Native culture and is a key ingredient in many Native foods. It originated in Mexico and quickly became a staple across the Americas as Indigenous farmers and seed keepers conditioned the plant to live in deserts, grasslands and high mountains. Today, Indigenous strains of corn have a smaller presence, but there are efforts to revitalize traditional corn for the benefit of Native culture, economics and health.

Wednesday, October 10, 2018 – Disclosing sexual assault (or not)
The world watched Christine Blasey Ford publicly detail her allegations of sexual assault against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. While she earned widespread support, she continues to endure backlash from the president on down, all questioning her motives and character. Native women are among those joining the discussion, pointing out how harmful the dispute is on a population that suffers high rates of sexual violence. We’ll consult with Native women’s advocates about the potential dangers of the current public debate and where we should go from here.

Thursday, October 11, 2018 – PBS explores “Native America”
Even before its official debut on PBS, the four-part documentary “Native America” is earning praise for its sophisticated portrayal of historical events and current issues. The creators of the show tout their collaboration with Native people in forming the final product. The series looks at traditional art, spiritual practices, political realities and the ongoing legacy of European contact. We’ll hear from those involved in the film who say the project should be viewed differently than previous attempts at explaining Native America to a mainstream audience.

Friday, October 12, 2018 – Understanding dialysis
Dialysis is a life-saving treatment for those who are in the last stages of kidney failure. At the same time, the process requires a serious commitment of time and expense. It’s like “having a part-time job that makes no money,” said Dr. Mark Unruh, chair of medicine at the University of New Mexico. Many Native Americans who rely on dialysis face the additional burden and expense of living a long distance from any treatment centers. We’ll explore the current state of dialysis treatment and get first-hand accounts of how people work around the hardships.

Monday, October 1, 2018 – Book of the Month: “The Nightlife”
Dipping into dreams to explore deep emotions is something Osage poet Elise Paschen is very familiar with. She does it in her book of poetry, “The Nightlife.” Her style of storytelling with verse is our focus for our October Book of the Month spotlight. We visit with her about her third book which links real life and an imaged one.

Tuesday, October 2, 2018 – 40 Under 40 class of 2018
Every year for the last 10 years the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development recognizes 40 outstanding Native individuals making a difference in Native America. They are all successful business men and women, tribal leaders, lawyers, politicians and health professionals under 40 years of age. We check in with several of this year’s recipients for inspiration and insight.

Wednesday, October 3, 2018 – Disney’s Epcot presents Native artistic innovation
A new exhibit at Epcot’s American Adventure Pavilion gives vacationers a taste of contemporary Native American art. “Creating Tradition: Innovation and Change in American Indian Art” includes 89 pieces of art from current and past Native artists. Pieces include Loren Aragon’s (Acoma Pueblo) “Ancient Resonance” dress, dolls by Glenda McKay (Ingalik-Athabascan) and an 1890’s Chilkat blanket. It’s a collaboration among Disney, the National Museum of the American Indian and the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture. We’ll discuss how the entertainment giant approaches Native culture.

Thursday, October 4, 2018 – Questioning ICWA’s constitutionality
Three states are currently challenging the Indian Child Welfare Act. Among other things they say the law giving tribes a say in the adoption of Native children interferes with states’ authority to regulate adoption. It’s the latest trend in the efforts to dismantle the 40-year-old law. Previous challenges came from individuals—all hopeful adoptive parents claiming ICWA gives unconstitutional preference based on race. We’ll explore what these cases could mean for the future of ICWA.

Friday, October 5, 2018 – October Music Maker: Sihasin
Sihasin is back with their second album “Fight Like a Woman.” Calling on the punk rock style of expression they’re known for they jump into emotional and political issues that weigh heavy on the lives of Native people. They join us live in Studio 49 to share their hopes of empowering Native people and raising awareness through their music.

Monday, September 24, 2018 – Timber for profit in Native America
Several tribes look to trees as a means of economic development. The practice brings up environmental and even aesthetic concerns about the process of harvesting a natural resource. We’ll talk with officials from tribes that harvest trees for profit about how they balance the economic and environmental benefits that come from the forest.

Tuesday, September 25, 2018 – Music Maker: Blackhorse Blues Band
We know how much Native America takes pride in homegrown Native blues. We turn to the Blackhorse Blues Band out of California made up of Pomo and Wappo musicians who pride themselves in what they call an amped-up set of gruff and grime with some ferocious blues rock. Who knows what emotions they’ll invoke once you experience their blues? We invite you to tune in to our September Music Maker and find out.

Wednesday, September 26, 2018 – Big flavor in small game
Moose, bison and deer get a lot of attention in Native America—and rightfully so—because they are staples of Indigenous food and culture. But hanging out in the shadows of large game animals are the small ones; the little ground squirrels, rabbits, beavers and other snack-size animals that sustained Indigenous diets since time immemorial. They’re still making appearances on Native dinner tables, but not as often. In this program, we’re taking a look at small game hunting and eating.

Thursday, September 27, 2018 – Unrelenting anxiety
When anxiety goes beyond stress over an important test or speaking in public, it could be a sign of something more serious. Some people are in a constant state of worry even when there are no identifiable causes. There are several different kinds of anxiety disorders, including panic attacks and phobias. If left untreated they can affect a person’s social and work life. We’ll hear about ways to recognize clinical anxiety and explore some treatments.

Friday, September 28, 2018 – Lumbee history, identity and status
The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina has been fighting for federal recognition for decades. That fight is not only waged against federal opposition, but also against other tribes, including the neighboring Eastern Band of Cherokee. The tribe has longstanding ties to their home, but their identity and the right to exercise sovereignty remain in the balance. We’ll look at Lumbee history, identity and what federal recognition would mean for 55,000 citizens.

Monday, September 17, 2018 – Combating elder isolation
Maintaining social contacts helps elders stay healthy. And it’s something elders have difficulty with. Researchers at Brigham Young University found links between social isolation and increased risks of heart disease, infections and cognitive decline. Few studies zero in on Native elders, but the problem is noticeable enough that organizations are offering ways to get elders out of the house and interacting with young people, each other and other members of the public.

Tuesday, September 18, 2018 – Coping with suicide
A suicide by a family member or friend leaves grief, depression, anger and a host of other crippling emotions in its wake. Because Native Americans have the highest rate of suicides compared to other groups, Native people are disproportionately left to cope with the loss. The gravity of the problem is spurring new and innovative ways to turn the numbers around. We’ll hear from those affected by suicide and get guidance on where to turn.

Wednesday, September 19, 2018 – The first year of high school: Myths and realities
The initial shock of the first few days as a high school freshman might be starting to wear off by now. But there are new challenges all through the school year. The transition from middle to high school is a rite of passage. Added homework, grade point averages and fitting in are all factors in the freshman experience. Some Native students have the extra hurdle of going from a tribal school to a large public school. We’ll learn some of the usual challenges to entering high school and how to work through them.

Thursday, September 20, 2018 – Native groups speak out against Kavanaugh
Brett Kavanaugh appears to be headed for a seat on the U.S. Supreme Court. At the same time, Native organizations and advocates are speaking out against President Trump’s nominee. The Alaska Federation of Natives issued a statement urging Alaska Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski to vote against his confirmation. The group says his confirmation would be troubling, especially for Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians. New Mexico Democratic Senator Tom Udall says Kavanaugh poses a ‘real threat to bedrock federal Indian law and policy principles.’ We’ll get an update on what’s known about Kavanaugh’s record.

Friday, September 21, 2018 – September in the News
An encampment of mostly Native homeless people in Minneapolis faces a pending deadline to disperse. A young woman at the camp died from a poorly-treated health problem, raising already high concerns about safety. The top Navajo Nation presidential candidates run into some challenges. And a Navajo MMA champion is stripped of her title. Join our discussion about some of the leading Native news stories.