Monday, November 28, 2016 – Before they disappear: endangered Native languages
There are 74 Native languages in North America that are critically endangered, according to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. That means only elders speak the language and even then they do so infrequently. Those trying to revive their languages are racing against time. We’ll look at revitalization efforts from tribes on the edge of losing their language forever. Does your family speak your language?
Tuesday, November 29, 2016 – Remembering Sand Creek
The initial reports of the armed conflict November 29, 1864 were that the Colorado U.S. Cavalry won a brave and difficult battle in Sand Creek. But later eyewitness accounts portray what is now considered a brutal attack that left more than 150 Cheyenne and Arapaho—mostly women, children and infants—dead. It is a day that will never be forgotten by those who descend from these tribal nations as well as others. We’ll discuss why it’s important to remember Sand Creek.
Wednesday, November 30, 2016 – Music Maker: The Red and Blues
We are turning to a band out of Lawrence Kansas for some Native blues. They’re the Red and Blues trio from Haskell Indian Nations University and their album, “Hope Begins to Bloom.” Their Native roots are evident in songs like “Manifest Destiny,” “Blast off the Rez,” and “Build a Pipeline Through My Heart.” The Red and Blues members Marcus Barnoskie (Pawnee/Creek), Kahheetah Barnoskie (Pawnee/Creek) and Reign Charger (Lakota) give their insights into their music.
Thursday, December 1, 2016 – Studying STEM for your future
There will be as many as one million more jobs available in science, technology, engineering and math fields by 2022. That’s the estimate listed by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In the second part of our series on STEM, we’ll speak with Native scientists about why they chose their path. How would more Native researchers affect environmental policy decisions? Could Native engineers help solve infrastructure problems on reservations? Have you considered a career in STEM?
Friday, December 2, 2016 – Standing Rock update
The conflict over the pipeline outside the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation is reaching a fever pitch. Last week saw the worst injury so far to a woman opposing the pipeline construction. Each side blames the other for the wound that might end up costing her arm. The injury came during a tense night in which law enforcement officers used a water hose, rubber bullets and tear gas against those who call themselves ‘water protectors’. Both sides are asking for federal intervention. In an editorial, the New York Times asks “how can this possibly end well”?
