Monday, June 15, 2020 – COVID-19 surges back
A surge of new COVID-19 cases in several states is prompting fears by medical experts a second wave of the virus has already begun. Montana tribes are remaining cautious despite the rest of the state’s easing of coronavirus restrictions. Navajo officials warn of enacting stricter controls if COVID-19 cases start increasing. The White Mountain Apache Tribe instituted new measures as they surpassed the Navajo Nation for having the most per capita coronavirus cases. We’ll check in with tribes about what they’re facing and what solutions they see on the horizon.
Tuesday, June 16, 2020 – Warding off loneliness
It’s been months since we all had to give up regular interactions with friends and family at restaurants, parties and community events. Even as government and health officials are lifting stay-at-home restrictions, lingering fears of spreading the coronavirus keeps many of us isolated. Social distancing can take toll on our mental health. We’ll talk with mental health experts about dealing specifically with loneliness.
Wednesday, June 17, 2020 – Music Maker: Wanbli Ceya/JUQ
Wanbli Ceya or JUQ is providing fresh sounds on his new album “nya.” This Oglala Oyanke of the Oceti Sakowin artist hopes to inspire change with his music. What we’ll hear this month is the second chapter of what he calls the Oglala Wolf Puppy with PTSD story. The songs give way to electronic sound bending and layering topped off with the language of his Indigenous nation. He’s not afraid to think and dance outside of the box.
Thursday, June 18, 2020 – The COVID-19 threat for rural Alaska
Alaska has been spared the high coronavirus infections rates of most other states, but cases are on the rise. It’s a worry, particularly for rural villages that have few medical resources to adequately tackle a major outbreak. At the same time, measures to prevent the spread of the virus have some more remote hospitals on the verge of closing down.
Friday, June 19, 2020– Defund the police?
A majority of the Minneapolis city council pledge to dismantle that city’s police department. It’s an idea that’s gaining momentum after George Floyd died when a Minneapolis police officer kneeled on his neck. Does dismantling the police mean there’s no one to respond to 911 calls? Proponents say it diverts public money to social services like mental health workers or homelessness experts instead of relying mainly on armed officers. Native Americans are among the populations disproportionately injured and killed by police. Could a new approach save Native lives? We’ll check in with a variety of opinions.
