Monday, August 17, 2020 – Sovereignty and the death penalty
The Navajo Nation is asking President Trump to halt the execution of Lezmond Mitchell, scheduled for Aug. 26. He is the only enrolled citizen on federal death row. The federal government resumed executions in July after an almost two-decade suspension. Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez issued a statement, saying the request is based on “religious and traditional beliefs, the Navajo Nation’s long-standing position on the death penalty for Native Americans, and our respect for the decision of the victim’s family.” Ignoring the Navajo Nation’s request could set a precedent that undermines the long-standing ability for tribes to weigh in on crimes that warrant the death penalty committed by tribal citizens on tribal land.
Tuesday, August 18, 2020 – Does “Eskimo” still hold up?
Edmonton’s (Canada) professional football team dropped the word “Eskimo” as their team name. The makers of Eskimo Pie ice cream are also retiring the brand. Inuit people and organizations have campaigned for years to get rid of the Eskimo name. They have new momentum during a wave of reassessments by sports teams, corporations and elected leaders of names, logos and monuments that don’t hold up under modern scrutiny. The word ‘Eskimo’ comes from a non-Indigenous interpretation of one or more Indigenous words. Some Inuit and Yupik people identify themselves as Eskimo while others see it as a slur.
Wednesday, August 19, 2020 – Politics and the pandemic raise voting uncertainty
Most states allow some type of mail-in voting. Health officials and elected leaders are recommending expanded vote-by-mail options to limit the spread of the coronavirus at in-person polling places. But President Trump continues to rail against the mailed ballots, warning—without evidence—that it increases the risk of fraud. He’s also withholding emergency funds for the U.S. Postal Service to accommodate an expected increase in mail volume. That’s all on top of local safety restrictions some tribes have in place that can also limit access to polling places. Voting advocates worry these and other factors might hinder Native voters who already face disproportionate barriers during elections.
Thursday, August 20, 2020 – Tools for teaching kids at home
Many Native parents welcome the opportunity to have their children learning at home until the COVID-19 threat subsides. Some might be adept at homeschooling. Others are struggling to find the time and resources to get the most out of home learning. And still others won’t have adequate technology in the form of computers and internet connectivity. We’ll present some tips on how to get through the school year whether you are homeschooling or online learning. We’ll also hear about free curricula on Native American history and culture that are helpful for instruction anywhere.
Friday, August 21, 2020 – Pandemic fatigue
It’s been months since businesses, restaurants, entertainment venues and schools closed down because of the pandemic. There are no accurate predictions when they will safely reopen. With no end in sight, it can be difficult to stay optimistic and maintain the stamina needed and find positive alternatives to simple tasks and interactions we all once took for granted. We’d like to hear how you are enduring the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ll also have some advice on how to address pandemic fatigue in a way that is healthy and hopeful.
