Monday, December 4, 2017 – Stopping elder abuse
Elders may hold high status among Native Americans, but that isn’t always enough to protect them from abuse. They are the victims of financial theft and physical and emotional abuse, often at the hands of family members. There are few concrete statistics, but experts say elder abuse is a real and serious problem in our Native nations. Their best protection is from other family members, health care workers, law enforcement officials and even neighbors who know what to look for.
Tuesday, December 5, 2017 — Native skin care
The cold, dry air of winter takes a toll on a person’s skin. Harsh weather is one of the things that can exacerbate conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Millions of people also suffer from acne, fungal infections and sunburns. We’ll talk about skin care and hear from some Native entrepreneurs whose products focus on using traditional, Native ingredients.
Wednesday, December 6, 2017 — Clean drinking water
Access to safe drinking water is an issue for thousands of Native people in the Southwest. Mining for uranium and other minerals, toxins leeching into well water, and inadequate infrastructure all play into water availability. Federal agencies, universities and environmental groups like the Navajo Water Project are trying to address contaminated ground water by researching contamination sources, studying health effects and bringing in clean water from elsewhere. As part of a series on toxic exposure in the Southwest, we’ll get an update on the problems and how people are working to fix them.
Thursday, December 7, 2017 – Native contributions during World War II
Alaska Natives picked up arms, forming citizen militias to guard against a possible foreign invasion. That is among the many Native contributions to the war. As the nation takes time to remember the bombing of Pearl Harbor, we’ll honor some of the contributions by Native Americans and Alaska Natives to World War II. We’ll talk with a descendent of a Navajo Code Talker, a Cherokee Nation veteran, and learn more about the Alaska Territorial Guard.
Friday, December 8, 2017 – Music Maker: Randy Wood
Saddle Lake Cree First Nation singer Randy Wood is helping us wrap up another great year of Native music as our December Music Maker. In this hour we get to hear his style of round dance that not only keeps in line with the traditions and teachings of his tribal roots but also gives people something to smile and move to. Several of the songs are dedications to people who have influenced Randy’s life and music.
