Monday, June 14, 2021 – The cicada explosion is a traditional food bounty
Many people see the swarm of Brood X cicadas in the Northeast and Midwest as either a novelty or a disruption. Some Native observers see a feast. Insects are a source of protein many tribes traditionally utilized. We’ll talk about the culinary bounty of cicada season and the role they and other insects play in Indigenous diets.
Tuesday, June 15, 2021 – The Native COVID-19 toll is worse than you think
Native deaths from COVID-19 are already disproportionately higher than the rest of the population. But the numbers from official sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are likely much higher than what is being reported. That’s the conclusion of a reporting project by a group of media organizations that make up the Indigenous Investigative Collective. The reporting finds barriers to compiling accurate information on Native Americans because of medical privacy laws and the patchwork of tribal, state and federal services Native patients rely on. We’ll discuss the project and learn how the lack of good information is hurting the response to the pandemic.
Wednesday, June 16, 2021 – Changing the face of Indigenous modeling
Modeling is seen as glamorous work. Indigenous models are making names for themselves and are insisting on better representation in an industry doesn’t always present beauty accurately or sensitively. In addition to exemplifying physical beauty, they are raising their voices against stereotypes and toxic environments that discourage diverse voices. We’ll talk with Indigenous models about what it means to represent Indigenous people and culture on the runway.
Thursday, June 17, 2021 – The backlash against anti-racist training and instruction
Are workshops about racial discrimination discriminatory? Elected leaders across the country are proposing laws and classroom changes that aim to weaken instruction about America’s racist past. Instead, they say they want more emphasis on subjects that paint the country in a more favorable, patriotic light. It’s part of the backlash against what is sometimes called “Critical Race Theory,” which some Native scholars point to as a vital piece of fully understanding the ongoing legacy of colonialism.
Friday, June 18, 2021 – Native dads: funny in their own mind
How many apples grow on a tree? All of them.
Bad puns, one-liners to nowhere, and corny punchlines. Dad jokes are infamous for being real groaners. Most dads aren’t comedians, but that doesn’t stop them from dispensing their own brand of humor. Many dads also consider themselves creative pranksters. For Father’s Day we’ll zero in on the special humor that only Native dads know about. Do you have a funny story about your funny dad?
