Monday, October 22, 2018 – “Will you marry me?”
From an orchestrated flash mob to a traditional appeal to the prospective bride’s family, there are plenty of ways to pop the question. Traditional Native customs might include exchanging goods or seeking consent from extended family members. Either way, asking “will you marry me” is meant to be—and usually is—a memorable occasion. We’ll hear about some modern proposals and review the history of certain tribal practices. We’ll also get advice about when a relationship is ready to go to the next level.
Tuesday, October 23, 2018 – The science and politics of DNA
Tribal leaders, Native politicians, researchers and activists all piled on a heavy helping of backlash when Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren revealed her DNA results. Her attempts at having the last, scientific word followed years of insults by Donald Trump, going back to even before he was elected president, mocking her decision to claim Native heritage. She has her defenders, but Warren managed to inflame one feud while trying to settle another.
Wednesday, October 24, 2018 – The other S-word
Activists are publicly deriding an online clothing store called “The Spunky Squaw.” The business has been around more than a year, but was reviled on social media only recently. The business owner, a college student, is holding her ground, insisting the term ‘squaw’ is not offensive. We’ll examine the history and current meaning of the word with historians and activists.
Thursday, October 25, 2018 – Canada cannabis and consultation
Canada’s decision to legalize recreational marijuana has set up a jurisdictional dispute among some First Nations. The Sakamay First Nation and several others say they have no intention of seeking provincial permission to establish cannabis operations as required by the new law. At the same time, other Aboriginal peoples are heralding the end of the cannabis prohibition as a boost to their own economic ventures. Are there lessons for the future of U.S. cannabis policy?
Friday, October 26, 2018 – October In The News
The Indian Child Welfare Act is unconstitutional according to a Texas circuit court judge. The ruling has advocates and Indian legal experts on high alert. It’s good news bad news for Native elected officials in Alaska. Valerie Nurr’araaluk Davidson becomes the highest ranking Native woman in state government history. But she ascends to the lieutenant governor’s seat only after a Native man, Byron Mallott, resigns after making “inappropriate comments.” We’ll delve into these topics and hear about ways tribes are doing to address potential voter suppression in North Dakota.
