Monday, April 17, 2017 – The history and importance of totem poles
In honor of Earth Day, we’re starting off a week of shows devoted to environmental issues with a discussion about totem poles. For the communities that create them, they hold significant cultural value and are much more than art. There are many tribes in Canada and the U.S.—including the Tlingit, Haida and the Tsimshian, to name a few—that carve poles. They typically use old growth trees, which are harder and harder to come by. We’ll talk with carvers about the history and tradition of totem poles.
Tuesday, April 18, 2017 – Keeping bees
For reasons many environmental experts don’t exactly know, bee populations are shrinking. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently added a species of bumble bee to the Endangered Species List. Seven species of bees in Hawaii are also endangered. Some Native American beekeepers are doing what they can to lend bees a helping hand.
Wednesday, April 19, 2017 – Pebble Mine update
The state of Alaska just approved a key permit to begin work on a controversial copper, gold and silver mine. Native American groups joined environmental organizations, commercial fishermen and others opposing the Pebble Mine project since it was first proposed. It’s planned for an area within the watershed for Bristol Bay, which is vital salmon habitat.
Thursday, April 20, 2017 – A poetic planet
We turn to Native poets to give us their celebration of words that get us closer to the beauty of Mother Earth. From the rivers to the stars there is plenty to celebrate. If there is a poem you’d like to share with others on this special day of poetry we’re all ears. Make plans to join us and let the poetry loose. We continue Earth Day week exploring just how poetic our planet can get.
Friday, April 21, 2017 – April in the News
As we look toward Earth Day, we’ll review some of the major environmental stories affecting Indigenous people. We’ll talk with reporters about developments they’re covering on key issues from contaminated water on the Navajo Nation to environmental rights for Aboriginal Canadians.
