Tuesday, January 1, 2008 – The Year in Review: (listen)
It was quite a year for Native America. Global warming was the biggest news story and an Inuit woman from Nunavut was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize for her climate change efforts. The vote to oust the Cherokee Freedmen is still being hotly debated across the country. The firing of shock jock Don Imus stirred up discussion about racism on the radio. Chief Illiniwek performed his last dance as an Indian mascot, and men from the Makah tribe in Washington were brought up on charges for illegally killing a whale. Join us as we look in the rear view mirror at 2007.

Wednesday, January 2, 2008 – Grassroots Movement 101:
(Listen)
When it comes to issues surrounding the protection of sacred sites, preserving Native language and culture, and addressing the myriad of concerns affecting Native people, you can usually find activists striving for change. What prompts people to take up a cause and organize their friends, relatives and neighbors? Can one person or a small group really make an impact when it comes to large issues? Guests are Dine' artist/activist Klee Benally who is co-founder of Indigenous Action Media and Cathy Rexford, Inupiaq, who is the Alaska Director for Native Movement.

Thursday, January 3, 2008 – A Hunk’a Hunk’a Native Love:
(Listen)
Have you ever been driving down the street or attending a large gathering and you swear you just saw Elvis? Well, you just may have seen one of his impersonators. Side burns, shifty hips and that unmistakable hairdo are all traits an Elvis impersonator must have to win hearts and strut in those blue, blue, blue suede shoes. As his birthday sits less than a week away we ask the question, what does it mean to transform into the King of Rock and Roll? Is there an Elvis in you just dying to come out? Guests are Alexander Longrifle - a Navajo Elvis, Leonard Johnson - the Tlingit Elvis and Bennard Dallasvuyaoma - a Hopi/Salt River Pima Elvis.

Friday, January 4, 2008 – Music Maker: Cheryl Bear: (Listen)
Cheryl Bear of the Bear Clan of the Nadleh Whut’en First Nation of British Columbia, takes the blues to the road in her latest CD “The Good Road.” The 2007 Aboriginal Peoples Choice Music Awards winner tells stories about historical pain and injustices, laughter and joy, faith and good old fashioned storytelling. With her powerful voice and a blues twang she ventures into stories that may be unspoken but are needed to be heard. Other songs on the CD help us to relate to the fun side of Native culture. Join us as we visit with our Music Maker of the Month Cheryl Bear.

Monday, January 7, 2008 - Civil Rights vs. Sovereignty: (Listen)
Every tribe deals with disgruntled members and virtually all tribes have an internal system that decides matters concerning tribal members on tribal lands. But what happens when that system is challenged? What happens when members feel their civil rights are being denied? What are your major concerns when it comes to civil rights and tribal governments? Do you think it undermines or strengthens tribal sovereignty when outside courts are used to hand down decisions concerning tribal matters? Guests are John Gomez, disenrolled member of the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians and Helen Padilla of Isleta Pueblo who is the director of the American Indian Law Center at the University of New Mexico.

Tuesday, January 8, 2008 - Current Events: 
(Listen)
It’s a new year and there’s a lot of activity happening around Indian Country this month. There’s a six-region anti-meth training to respond to the growing methamphetamine use in their communities. Also, the National Indian Child Welfare Association's training session will kick off promoting positive parenting. What are the events that you are looking forward to sharing this month? Join us as we open up the airwaves to what is going on within our tribal nations on this first month of 2008.  

Wednesday, January 9, 2008 – In Hot Waters:
(Listen)
By now, most people are aware of the possibility that global warming may wreak havoc on our planet. But how will this play out under the surface of our waters? Some Native people have seen fish moving to new feeding and spawning grounds; others have seen coral dying en mass. What do these changes mean for people who depend on the waters for survival? Is this the beginning of the end for aquatic species? Guests are Mike Smith, Koyukon Athabascan Director of Subsistence Resources for Tanana Chiefs Conference and Axel Timmerman, chair of the International CLIVAR Pacific Panel.

Friday January 11, 2008 – The Business of Horsing Around:
(Listen)
In the years since contact, Native peoples of the United States have used many things that Europeans brought with them, including the horse. At one point in time, many tribes judged wealth by the number of horses a person owned. Today, some Natives are still using horses descended from the horses their families have owned for generations to make their living. Do people off the reservation realize the value of these old bloodlines? When a horse from the rez makes the big time in the ring, does their background get the respect it deserves? Guests include Ken Real Bird, Crow, owner of Real Bird Bucking Horses; Becky Abeita, Isleta/Laguna Pueblo, Owner and Head Trainer of Steel Gate Farms, and from the Nez Perce Tribe J.R. Spencer, Horse Specialist for the Young Horseman's Project and the Nez Perce Horse registry.

Monday, January 14, 2008 – Old Treaties, New Freedom:
(Listen)
A group called the Lakota Freedom Delegation recently hand delivered a message to U.S. officials proclaiming to withdraw from all treaties with the U.S. and announcing their independence. They also said they were reclaiming the Dakota Territory, which includes parts of North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming and Montana. But tribal leaders of the Sioux Nations have said the delegation does not represent the tribes or the Lakota people. Is it time to say goodbye to old treaties? Guests are Oglala Lakota Russell Means of the Lakota Freedom Delegation and Rosebud Sioux President Rodney Bordeaux.

Tuesday, January 15, 2008 – Off-Reservation Gaming:
(Listen)
Indian gaming tribes and their supporters are squaring off against the Interior Department and the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The outrage was fueled by letters sent out to 11 tribes by the BIA denying their applications for taking land into trust for off-reservation gaming purposes. The main reason given was that the proposed gaming sites were too far from the tribal community. Tribes are calling the decision paternalistic and racist towards Indians. What is your take on off-reservation gaming? Our Guest is St. Regis Mohawk Chief Lorraine White.

Wednesday, January 16, 2008 – Ethically Speaking:
(Listen)
A recent Washington Post story (and subsequent news stories) outlining former National Museum of the American Indian director Richard West’s travel and reimbursement costs has sparked heated debate across the country. Some are calling it a blatant abuse of power by West, while others justify and defend the spending citing West’s selfless commitment and overarching impression on NMAI’s success. What legacy will be left behind by this Cheyenne/Arapaho man? Guests are Rebecca Adamson, a Cherokee and founder of First Nations Development Institue and Joseph M. Paiement, co-founder of Paiement Law Office.

Thursday, January 17, 2008 – Hijacked Hawaii:
(Listen)
On this day in 1893, Hawaii’s Queen Lili’uokalani was removed from her throne after U.S. Marines invaded the islands. Soon after, Hawaii was given a new government. For many Native Hawaiians it was an obvious illegal overthrow and they still hold the U.S. responsible for changing their way of life. Today, Native Hawaiians continue to fight for their sovereignty. How does this history impact pending bills for Native Hawaiians who are trying to gain federal recognition status similar to tribes? Guests include Robin Puanani Danner, President/CEO of the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement.

Friday, January 18, 2008 – Waiting for the Sun to Return:
(Listen)
With the Winter Solstice comes the promise of more sunlight and for Alaska it is time to welcome it back. Soon the sun will once again journey along the Alaskanhorizon after a season of rest. For many Alaska Natives this time signifies many different things. For some it is a time to begin preparation for upcoming seasons. As the sun makes its way back into the view of villages what other ways are Natives honoring this time? How do traditional practices during this time relate to the everyday hustle and bustle? Guests include Ronald Brower, an Inupiaq language teacher with the University of Alaska.

Monday, January 21, 2008 – Women in the Military:
(Listen)
Women make up nearly 20 percent of current U.S. military personnel. Many women, particularly minority women, join the service for financial and economic reasons. But ongoing allegations and investigations concerning women in the military have raised questions about how females are treated when they report sexual abuse or harassment. Do women receive fair and unbiased treatment in the military, or are they treated as subordinates and discriminated against? Our guest is U.S. Army veteran Eli Painted Crow of the Yaqui tribe.

Tuesday, January 22, 2008 – Pride & Poverty:
(Listen)
Each winter brings harsh cold to the Great Plains, and each winter we read reports of how the weather is threatening the lives of people on the reservations. The reports are not usually generated by the tribes themselves. Most often it is non-profit organizations or churches that are driving the reports that urgent attention and donations are needed to meet the emergency needs of poor people on the reservations. How do Native people maintain their pride when reports of their poverty are made so public? Guests are Emma “Pinky” Iron Plume-Clifford of the Oglala Sioux Tribe and the Reverend Audrey Link, founder and president of the Link Center Foundation.

Wednesday, January 23 , 2008 – Risks and Rewards of Birth Control:
(Listen)
Stroke, deep vein thrombosis, blood clots – these are all risks many women take when they use birth control. Even with these risks, some women find that more stable cycles and more control over when they become a mom make birth control worth it. What methods of birth control are available and what potential side effects do they present? Do you know what questions you should be asking your doctor to determine what method is safest for you? Guests are Lieutenant Commander Kimberly Couch who is the Director of Midwifery Services at the Phoenix Indian Medical Center and Johnny Wilson who is the Senior Vice President of External Affairs for Planned Parenthood of New Mexico.

Thursday, January 24, 2008 – Native in the Spotlight: Andrew Okpeaha MacLean
(Listen)
Inupiaq film maker Andrew Okpeaha MacLean is creating a buzz in Park City, Utah this week as the Sundance Film Festival is in full swing. His latest film "Sikumi" or "On the Ice" is a film short about a traditional hunter who witnesses a murder - giving a glimpse into the world of the Inupiaq. Sharing his view of the world is something MacLean has been fine tuning for many years and his credits also include documentaries and theater. How have his deep ties to his culture influenced his life and career as a storyteller?

Friday, January 25, 2008 – Racism in America Today:
(Listen)
Civil rights leaders of the 60’s had a dream of ending racism. It was their hope that by this day and age, racism would be almost nonexistent. Looking at Native communities and issues today, racism is still thriving in our communities. Have the heated days of the civil rights movement and extreme racism died down or heated up for Native Americans? What are Native people doing today to understand or change the damage that racism has created? What happens when Natives are the ones perpetuating racism themselves? Guests are LaNada War Jack, Executive Director of the Shoshone Bannock Tribe, "Lady Binx" who is Apache/Lepan and Mexica Visual and Performing Artist Yaiva, a Dine and Hopi Hip-Hop Artist and Producer.

Monday, January 28, 2008 – Modern American Indian Leaders:
(Listen)
A new book called “Modern American Indian Leaders” tells the story of the lives and works of a sample of Native American leaders who have succeeded in changing the course of history and yet have not received recognition for their achievements. In the face of the many trials that Native people have endured in the last few centuries, a surprising number of Native leaders have still been able to emerge and excel in contemporary society. Who is your favorite modern Native leader and why? Our guest is Dr. Dean Chavers, author of the book and a member of the Lumbee Tribe.

Tuesday, January 29, 2008 – The Psychology of Over Eating:
(Listen)
We all know that obesity and its attendant health issues run rampant through Native communities. But is it a lack of will power on Native people’s part to eat right and exercise, or is it something deeper, something psychological? If you frequently over eat when you feel down, eat when you are not hungry or have feelings of guilt after you feel you’ve eaten too much - you may be a compulsive over-eater. What kind of help is available for people who suffer from this condition? Guests are Dr. Dennis Norman, Chief of Psychology at Massachusetts General Hospital and a Cheyenne descendant and Wanda, a Native American member of Overeaters Anonymous.

Wednesday, January 30, 2008 – Book of the Month: A Cherokee Ancestry:
(Listen)
Cherokee history has been marked by the formation of different tribes – the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, the Eastern Band of Cherokee, and the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokees – from the same original people. Author Robert J. Conley’s new book titled “A Cherokee Ancestry” is a quick reference for many of the places, things, and people who are connected to this group. Have you ever wondered about the Trail of Tears, or Sequoyah's syllabary? Are you part Cherokee? Robert J. Conley, a member of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee, joins us.

Thursday, January 31, 2008 – An Elderly Workforce:
(Listen)
The U. S. Census Bureau estimates by the year 2013 there will be 81.5 million Americans age 55 or older – a 30 percent increase in this age bracket. When it comes to employment this statistic likely means an increasingly older workforce. When taking a look at this demographic, how does it apply to Native communities? What are the concerns of both elder workers and their employers? Does ageism play a role when an older person is on the job, or applies for a job? Does the answer of where to find more dependable and reliable employees rest on an elderly workforce? Our guests are Durango Mendoza of the Muscogee Creek Nation, who is the Special Assistant to the Director for the Native American House and American Indian Studies at the University of Illinois and Doug Calderwood who oversees the New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department.

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Friday, February 1, 2008 – 2008 State of Indian Nations Address: (listen)
Much like the message coming earlier in the week from President Bush in his State of the Union address, another important message is being sent out from Washington, D.C. The President of the National Congress of American Indians, Joe Garcia of Ohkay Owingeh in New Mexico, will make the State of Indian Nations Address on Thursday, January 31. As we reflect on President Garcia's speech, what are the topics that piqued your interest? What are the most urgent and pressing needs in Native America? Guest analysts include Antonia Gonzales, Host/Producer of National Native News and a member of the Navajo Nation.

Monday, February 4, 2008 – The Race for the White House:(Listen)
Voters from more than 20 states will hit the polls on Super Tuesday (Feb. 5) and their ballots will go a long way towards deciding who will be our next President. All the remaining candidates have been invited to provide spokespersons who can inform listeners about their views and positions on issues important to Native America. Do you have a question for one of the candidates? What do they know about Native issues? Guests are Keith Harper of the Cherokee Nation, chair of Barack Obama’s Native American Advisory Committee, and Holly Cook Macarro, Native American Policy Advisor to the Hillary Clinton campaign and an enrolled Member of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians.

Tuesday, February 5, 2008 – Current Events:
(Listen)
The Native Grammy will be handed out this weekend, who are the finalists? Hiring and promotion practices by the Office of the Special Trustee within the Interior Department are being challenged by one Native employee. New gaming compacts already agreed upon by four tribes and the governor are being voted on today by Californians. Koahnic Broadcast Corporation (our parent company) is holding an art auction to raise funds, and do you know about the Earned Income Tax Credit?

Wednesday, February 6, 2008 - Something Fishy Going On:
(Listen)
People who have traditionally relied on Alaska salmon are facing restrictions on their catch this year…again. There are many factors contributing to the collapse of wild salmon stocks all over the west coast. Among them are commercial fishing, agricultural runoff and dams. Which of these factors play a role in Alaska’s lakes, rivers, streams and coastal waters? How will fishing restrictions apply to your village? How will the regulation of harvesting fish affect commercial and subsistence fisheries? Guests are Mike Smith, a Koyokon Athabaskan who is the Director of Subsistence Resources for the Tanana Chiefs Conference and Stephanie Madsen who is the Executive Director of the At-Sea Processor's Association.

Thursday, February 7, 2008 – Hip Hop Pioneers Reaching Out to Natives:
(Listen)
The Hip-Hop movement, like many national movements has found its’ way to Native communities as far north as Alaska through Canada and the lower 48 states. It has influenced Natives to join in and make their own Hip Hop mark. So what happens when a movement is touched by the pioneers who founded the hip-hop culture? What lessons are yet to be revealed as the founders take a physical and musical visit to Native communities? Guests are Rob "Kasp" Sawan of the Cree First Nation and a member of the Native hip hop group 7th Generation, Darryl "DMC" McDaniels of the legendary group RUN DMC, George "Pop Master Fabel" Pabon of the Taino Nation.

Friday, February 8, 2008 - Who’s Jail? Yours or Ours?:
(listen)
The question of where to house Native inmates can be a complicated one. Some tribes have decided to take on the challenge and build their own jail facility, while others have made agreements with neighboring municipalities to house Native inmates. How do both of these methods of jailing offenders affect the overall tribal justice system? What happens to a tribal community when a jail opens or closes? What do tribal communities need to consider when it comes to building and operating a lockdown facility? Guests TBA.

Monday, February 11, 2008 – The Native Grammy:
(listen)
This weekend the Grammy’s announced to the world the group or artist chosen for this year’s Best Native American Album. We will have the winner ready to share their story and their music. This year’s contenders bring traditional sounds of the pow wow drum, the flute and traditional chants to the forefront. The nominees include Black Lodge for “Watch This Dancer”; Davis Mitchell for “The Ballad of Old Times”; Walter Ahhaitty & Friends for “Oklahoma Style”; Johnny Whitehorse (aka Robert Mirabal) for “Totemic Flute Chants”; and R. Carlos Nakai for “Reconnections.” And the winner is…..Robert Mirabal, who is our guest from Taos Pueblo.

Tuesday, February 12, 2008 – The Longest Walk II:
(listen)
In 1978, Native activists held the Longest Walk in an effort to shed light on Native issues. Today, participants are embarking on the Longest Walk II, a 5-month journey from San Francisco to Washington , D.C. It has shaped up to be an extraordinary grassroots effort on a national level to bring attention to the environmental disharmony of Mother Earth, sacred site issues, and to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the original walk. Do events like these actually raise awareness? Guests are Dennis Banks of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and co-founder of the American Indian Movement, Morning Star Gali of the Pit River tribes of California who is a member of the NAGPRA Coalition and Jeneda Benalli, who is Dine and a founder of the Save the Peaks Coalition.

Wednesday, February 13, 2008 – Indian Romance Novels: (listen)
According to the Romance Writers of America, over 51 million people read romance novels each year. One type of these novels focuses on the bodice ripping savage love of Native American men and the illicit desires of their pioneer women partners. Do these novels say something about the way Natives are perceived by the rest of America? Can people who would never seek out Native culture gain any meaningful understanding of Native peoples through the stories presented in these books? Guests are romance novelist Karen Kay, a Choctaw descendant and Scott Richard Lyons from the Leech Lake Reservation who is an assistant professor of English at Syracuse University.

Thursday, February 14, 2008 – The Ultimate Love Story: (listen)
When we think of Valentine’s Day we think of love. Beyond cute cards, heart shaped candy and cupid shooting arrows, truly loving someone can be stronger than you could imagine. When it comes to the love that a person gives when their loved one is faced with an illness that may take their life, often the ultimate love story is captured. Today we honor the people who extend this love and become the caregivers to people who are diagnosed with a life threatening illness. How do these people find the strength to be an inspiration and take love to its fullest? Guests are Dorene Wiese of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe who cared for her uncle until his passing in 2005 and John Campbell and Kara Briggs, a married couple who cared for each other during serious illnesses. 

Friday, February 15, 2008 – Fighting Sioux: (listen)
The NCAA has listed the University of North Dakota’s use of the nickname Fighting Sioux as “hostile or abusive.” Recently the NCAA gave school officials three years to win the support of the state’s two Sioux Tribes – Standing Rock and Spirit Lake . Members of both tribes are asking that the issue be put to a vote of tribal citizens. Where do you stand? Is Fighting Sioux an honor, or does it perpetuate racist stereotypes? Guests are Frank Black Cloud (Spirit Lake Dakota) who supports the name and Jesse Taken Alive (Standing Rock Sioux) who opposes the name.

Monday, February 18 , 2008 – The Fate of the National Bison Range: (listen)
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are in serious discussions with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to reach an agreement as to how the National Bison Range will be managed. The range lies within the boundaries of tribal lands, and the tribe was given a role as a joint manager before the Interior Department scrapped the plan. Can the two parties come up with a partnership plan? Guests are Tribal Chairman James Steele, Jr., (Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes) and Dean Rundle of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

Tuesday, February 19, 2008 – Apologies to the Indigenous Peoples: (listen)
Last week new Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd apologized to the nation’s Aborigines “for the indignity and degradation thus inflicted on a proud people and a proud culture, we say sorry.” However, Rudd only secured support for the apology from opponents after assuring them no compensation would be attached to the apology. Will the next U.S. President apologize for the mistreatment of Native Americans? Our guest is Kevin Abourezk (Oglala Lakota), a reporter for the Lincoln ( Neb. ) Journal Star.

Thursday, February 21, 2008 – Racism in the System: (listen)
Racism is not only on the streets, it also rests in the systems that govern us, employ us, and even protect us. At times Natives who are trying to defend their rights in the justice system have to figure out how to deal with racist attitudes. When racism is encountered in the system what can be employed to combat it? Has this led to the erosion of confidence in the justice system? Guests are Rhonda Kelly (Onegaming First Nation) Justice Coordinator of the Grand Council Treaty #3 and Tribal Chairman George Goggleye (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe).  

Friday, February 22, 2008 – Native in the Spotlight: Waachiim Spirit Wolf: (listen)
When a mixed martial artist (MMA) fighter enters the cage the crowd begins to rumble. They are ready to see high action kickboxing, body slamming and their favorite wrestling moves. Waachiim Spirit Wolf (Navajo/Yaqui) is a cage fighting king who is carrying out his warrior spirit at mixed martial arts tournaments throughout the U.S. and Mexico . Join us as we visit with our Native in the Spotlight as he continues his journey towards an MMA world championship.

Monday, February 25, 2008 – College & Native Generations: (listen)
Statistics show that more and more American Indians and Alaska Natives are graduating high school and going to college. But is this growing number reflected within the respective economies and the cultural fabric of tribal communities? Are Native people still pursuing degrees to “help their people” or does this generation of college attendees represent a change in values? Guests include Stephen Fadden (Mohawk) who will be one of the keynote speakers at IAIA’s “Convening for Student Success” conference.

Tuesday, February 26, 2008 – I’m Black, I’m Native, I’m Proud: (listen)
Do you have pride in your heritage? Some people who are Black and Native have expressed pride for both of their cultural lineages. What challenges do these people face when it comes to being accepted by both their Native and Black communities? Why do some Natives who are part Black face more adversity than others who are of mixed heritage? Is it a color issue? How do Natives who are faced with adversity overcome prejudice from their own Native people? Guests are James E. Charles (Choctaw descendant) and Robert Roca (Chiricahua Apache) who is the Executive Director of American Indian Education at Oberlin College.

Wednesday, February 27 , 2008 – Book of the Month: Miko Kings: (listen)
With spring training just around the corner it’s time to start thinking about baseball. In LeAnne Howe’s new book “Miko Kings,” she ties baseball to the heart and soul of Native people. A fictional story set in Ada, Oklahoma, baseball is presented as an extension of Native culture and community. Loosely based on actual research of the relationship between baseball and Natives, “Miko Kings” gives us a full-speed run around the bases. Our guest is LeAnne Howe (Choctaw).

Thursday, February 28, 2008 – Native Veggie-Tales:
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Beef recalls, cholesterol, and e-coli, oh my! There are some Natives who would argue that “vegetarian” is a Native American word meaning “bad hunter.” Still, some Natives choose to go meat-free or even animal-product free. What drives people to make this decision and what are the consequences and concerns involved in a life without meat? Guests TBA.

Friday, February 29, 2008 – Overturning Oliphant:
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One theory or line of reasoning for so much crime being committed on tribal lands by non-natives – such as sexual assault, drug dealing, even murder – is the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1978 decision in the infamous Oliphant case. The decision stripped tribal courts of the power to try felony offenses and prosecute non-Indians for crimes committed on tribal lands. Should the Oliphant decision be overturned? Guests include Scott Smith, police chief for the Tulalip Tribe in Washington.

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Monday, March 3 , 2008 – Freedom of the Tribal Press:
(listen)
The question of whether or not tribal newspapers possess freedom of the press privileges is still being challenged by tribal governments. Recent resignations, job transfers and layoffs of editors of tribal newspapers have sparked the debate once again. Should tribal councils or other tribal leaders have the power to approve or disapprove what goes into the tribal newspaper? Guests are Joe Martin (Eastern Cherokee), former editor of the Cherokee One Feather and Paul DeMain (Oneida), Managing Editor/CEO of News from Indian Country.

Tuesday, March 4, 2008 – Current Events: (listen)
The Cobell v. Kempthorne case could be coming to an end in favor of tribal account holders. A hearing will begin tomorrow to discuss resolving the multi-billion dollar suit. A walk to bring attention to border wall issues in Texas is trying to impact the state’s presidential primaries. National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is coming up. Did you know American Indians and Alaska Natives have the third highest rate of AIDS diagnosis in the country, despite having the smallest population? Join us for current events.

Thursday, March 6, 2008 – Evolution of the Native Art Scene : (listen)
The Native art scene has a life of its own and is constantly evolving. From one art show to the next, or from one year to another, the evolution of Native art is what helps make it so vibrant. What is the current state of Native art in comparison to past eras? What types of styles have changed or stayed the same across all mediums? What are the factors that influence Native artists to evolve from old styles to new ones or vice versa? Guests are metalsmith Cody Sanderson (Navajo) and artist Randy Kemp (Choctaw/Euchee/Muscogee Creek).

Friday, March 7, 2008 – Hail to the Hoop Dancers:
(listen)
It starts with a set of hoops and a Native dancer. Together, they tell a story of life through the intricacies of hoop dancing. What began to reach wide audiences in the 1930’s is now an intertribal dance that mimics Native design and culture right down to the fancy footwork and quick hoop maneuvering. The hoop dance can now be seen in many different Native circles, but what are its origins? How has it managed to stay alive and grow with the times? Guests are World Champion hoop dancer Derrick Suwaima Davis (Hopi/Choctaw) and hoop dancer Violet Duncan (Taino/Cree).

Monday, March 10, 2008 – Women in a Tough Workplace: (listen)
With all the equality movements that have swept the country in recent years the thought of sexism on the job site may seem like a thing of the past. But, for some women who have entered a field that is predominantly viewed as a man’s job, dealing with sexist attitudes is a reality. How does your tribe deal with sexism on the job and how has it affected your life? How important is it to know your rights as a woman in a tough workplace? Our guest is Lorena “Lori” Andersen (Navajo) a coal mine worker of 30 years.

Tuesday, March 11, 2008 – Rich Tribes, Poor Tribes:
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Since the rise of Indian gaming there has been a divide between small tribes with big, profit-making casinos and big tribes with little or no income from gaming. But there is a movement for wealthy tribes to forge partnerships with financially-strapped tribes to stimulate and enhance tribal economies. Can alliances be built to ensure that a certain percentage of the billions of dollars of gaming revenue benefits less fortunate tribal communities? Guests include Harold Monteau (Chippewa Cree), CEO for Native American Business Development.

Wednesday, March 12, 2008 – Music Maker: Ethnic De Generation: (listen)
Some music sounds best when it’s played loud and hard, especially when it’s time to rock out. Not for the tender ear, Ethnic De Generation’s debut album “Blood Land ” falls in line with their high energy and aggressive metal performance that has touched many audiences over the years. How has their music opened the doors for iron Natives? What is the spirit behind aggressive metal music? Guests are lead vocalist and guitarist Billy Crawley (Navajo/Osage) and bass player Terrill Redhouse (Navajo).

Friday, March 14, 2008 – Racial Names and Labels:
(listen)
When you identify yourself or someone else by race, what names or labels do you use? Do you prefer Native American, American Indian, Alaska Native, just plain Indian, or do you prefer to use a tribal affiliation? Do you use the term black, African American, or Afro-American? What about white, Caucasian or Anglo? How about Hispanic, Latino, Mexican, or Asian American and Pacific Islander? The program will feature man-on-the-street interviews and open lines for our callers.

Monday, March 17, 2008 – Tuning In to Native TV:
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Since the invention of television, how many programs have hit the heart of Native America? The answer: not many. News flash, that era is coming to an end. Tribes and Native-owned companies are increasingly jumping at the opportunity to bring TV programming to tribal people. What types of programs are being produced? How can connecting Natives through new technologies serve Native communities? Who will be watching? Guests are Michael E. Johnson (Mashantucket Pequot), Creative Director of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation's Foxwoods Casino and Shelly Lacy (Tulalip), General Manager of the Tulalip Tribal Government.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008 – Native in the Spotlight: Josephine Waconda:
(listen)
She began her nursing career more than half a century ago. Her list of accomplishments includes being a former Assistant U.S. Surgeon General, the first American Indian woman to achieve a rank of Rear Admiral in the commissioned corps of the U.S. Public Health Service and Director of the Albuquerque Area Indian Health Service. In addition, her father was responsible for securing voting rights for Native Americans in New Mexico in 1948. Our spotlight will be on Josephine Waconda (Isleta/Laguna Pueblos).

Wednesday, March 19, 2008 – Building Relations in the Empire State :
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With the sudden resignation of the governor of New York, tribes in the state find themselves faced with the task of building new relationships with a new governor. Tobacco taxes and land issues are on many tribal agendas. Will the new governor prove to be a roadblock or an ally to forging consensus? Will the cigarette taxation and land claims issues in the Empire State ripple back to Native Nations elsewhere? How does your tribe deal with new state leadership? Guests include Chairman Randy King of the Shinnecock Indian Nation and tribal Chief Lorraine White (St. Regis Mohawk.)

Thursday, March 20, 2008 – One Love, Native Vibrations:
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The lyrics of Bob Marley, “One Love, One Heart!” still ring true. Although the first beats of reggae music are traced back to Jamaica, it has found a new home in Native America. The vibrations of the music are felt deep within and are connected to indigenous communities far and wide. Why has a music genre from the Caribbean touched and moved almost every Native community? What does reggae mean to your Native vibe? Guests include Logan Bell (Maori) lead vocal for the reggae band Katchafire. 

Tuesday, March 25, 2008 – Book of the Month: The Women’s Warrior Society: (listen)
The Women’s Warrior Society is a gathering of characters and voices used to expose truths about Native American life. In tightly woven prose, author Lois Beardslee (Ojibwe/Lacandon) tells stories about people from all over North America. The women warriors in these tales have lived through a variety of mishaps, experiencing the consequences of misinformation and the misguided efforts of institutions and individuals.

Wednesday, March 26, 2008 – Growth of the Native American Church : (listen)
The Native American Church uses the peyote cactus as a sacrament for religious purposes. Modern peyote ceremonies are believed to be started by the Kiowa, Apache and Comanche people in the 1870’s. Since that time, the church has spread across Turtle Island. Although the ceremonies combine elements of Christianity with ancient religious practices, some indigenous communities reject it. How do you feel about the use of peyote? Guests are Jim Northrup, Jr. ( Fond du Lac Ojibwe), Tribal Chairman Wallace Coffey (Comanche) and Clifford Duncan (Ute).

Thursday, March 27, 2008 – Mexican Indians: (listen)
Many people from Mexico have indigenous roots that date back centuries. Still, many Natives from the U.S. and Aboriginal people from Canada don’t consider Indians from Mexico as being related to us through bloodlines or by culture. Are we turning our backs on our distant cousins down south? Is this a sign of lateral oppression on the part of indigenous peoples north of the Mexican border? Guests include Yaotl Mazahua (Aramuri/Mazahua).

Friday, March 28, 2007 – Performance Art Theatre: (listen)
A new form of performance art mixed with new media is being experimented within pockets of Native communities. This combination of technology and tribal traditions is challenging the old school thought of theatre, which is based on the great masters of theatre, such as Shakespeare. Can this new movement within Native theatre break stereotype and find a new audience? Is the classic form of theatre dead? Guests include University of New Mexico professors Maria Williams (Tlingit) and Raven Chacon (Navajo).

Monday, March 31, 2008 – Poetry for the Eyes and Ears: (listen)
Can poetry be for the eyes and ears? Traditional indigenous storytelling stimulates all of our senses and contemporary Native poets are moving back in that direction. Poetry readings now offer visuals and sounds along with the spoken word. Will traditional Native storytelling compel a new generation of Native poets to incorporate traditional forms into their work? Guests are performance poet and throatsinger Taqralik Partridge (Inuit) and Adam Cooper-Teran (Yaqui/Chicano) independent video artist/Verbobala Spoken Word.


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Tuesday, April 1, 2008 – Current Events: (listen)
As we kick off the month of April, we have some unbelievable news from Indian Country. Government officials have leaked the whereabouts of a secret location where they are holding indigenous aliens. The site is known as Area 49. There have been reports of Osama Bin Laden being sighted in the Four Corners region on the Navajo reservation. A Native man says that special ceremonies performed for him could make him the first male to become pregnant. Do you have any unbelievable news from your community?

Wednesday, April 2, 2008 – Indigenous Networking: (listen)
Native peoples of the world unite! The number of indigenous groups taking part in educational, environmental, self-governance and other types of conferences and workshops across the globe are on the rise. As the various Native nations of planet Earth come together, friendships are made and powerful networks are formed. Where will these new ties lead? Does this qualify as a pan-indigenous movement, and if so, does it dilute individual tribal identities? Guests are Jose Barreiro (Taino) Assistant Director of Research at the National Museum of the American Indian and Dr. Beverly Singer (Santa Clara Pueblo) Associate Professor of Anthropology and Native American Studies at the University of New Mexico.

Thursday, April 3, 2008 – Losing Urban Indian Hubs: (listen)
Although some are meeting the challenge in various ways, many Natives who live in urban areas lack cultural connections to their reservations and villages. To help alleviate this disconnect, Native people have established cultural hubs within our cities—at places like Indian centers, college campuses, health clinics and even churches. What happens when these hubs are threatened? Who will fight to keep them? Guests are Chris Yazzie, (Dine) student currently occupying DQ University grounds, Joann Dunn (Mi'kmaq) Executive Director/North American Indian Center of Boston, Inc., and David Rambeau (Northern Paiute) Executive Director/ United American Indian Involvement.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008 – Current Events: (listen)
PBS will air an intimate portrait of Navajo ballet dancer Jock Soto called “Water Flowing Together” on the award winning series Independent Lens. The “Trading at the River” tradeshow in Portland will feature 40 of the Northwest’s most exciting Native businesses. The deadline for entering the Indian Summer Music Awards in Milwaukee is fast approaching, and the United Nations will host the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues in New York . What events are taking place in your community?

Monday, April 14, 2008 – Indian Preference Laws: (listen)
A recent court decision ruled that the Department of Interior must expand its Indian preference policy to all positions that directly relate to Indian programs. Indian preference laws were put in place within the federal government to encourage self-determination. The laws favor an Indian applicant over a non-Indian applicant when they are equally qualified. Should the laws apply to Indian-owned casinos and Alaska Native Corporations? Does your tribe have an Indian preference policy? Guests are Darrell Bradley (Gros Ventres) a Construction Representative for the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Ishmael Hope (Tlingit/Inupiaq) Director of Outreach/Perseverance Theatre.

Tuesday, April 15, 2008 – Underage and Under the Influence: (listen)
Underage drinking has long been a concern of health professionals and tribal communities. Today, over the counter drugs and household items are also being used by youth looking to get high. A national strategy has been developed and now states are beginning to develop and implement their own strategies to tackle this issue. What can be done to reduce and prevent children from falling under the influence? Guests include MaShelle Hess, Project Coordinator for the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008 – Native in the Spotlight: Jock Soto: (listen)
Jock Soto has amazed audiences with his grace. After falling in love with ballet as a five-year-old hoop dancer, he devoted 25 years of his life to the stage and the arts. His tale is told in the PBS Independent Lens feature “Water Flowing Together” which depicts the story of him dancing with the thought of retirement after living a life of movement, motion and choreography. The Navajo and Puerto Rican dancer has performed with the New York City Ballet – one of the highest achievements in ballet - with the ranks of Soloist then as a Principal.

Thursday, April 17, 2008 – Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?: (listen)
If you look at recent census numbers, you’ll find that many Native people are marrying non-Natives. One report stated Natives marry more outside their race than any other ethnic group. Sometimes a cross-cultural love connection can be cause for confusion or a chance to build bridges between cultures. How should families react and how do they react? Whose responsibility is it to introduce the newcomer to Native culture? Open lines.

Friday, April 18, 2008 – Singing, Dancing and Keeping Native Culture Strong: (listen)
When you hear a Native song or see a Native dance, there is a good chance you are witnessing a revival of Native culture. When you begin to feel the vibrations, a bridge is formed from generations past to the people of today. Within the music and the moves lie language, philosophy, and story. How are Native nations keeping the gift of culture strong through song and dance? Why is it important to share the gift? Guests include members of the Nunamta Yup'ik Eskimo Dance Troupe: Chuna McIntyre (Yup'ik) Director and founding member, Vernon Chimegalrea (Yup'ik) drummer and singer, and Tatiana Andrew (Yup'ik) singer and dancer.

Monday, April 21, 2008 – Gourd Dancing Across Indian Country: (listen)
The gourd dance has become very popular and its reach has extended beyond the powwow trail. But what are its origins, where did it start, and why? The Kiowas began the gourd dance in the 1940’s, and it stemmed from their traditional Sun Dance ceremony. It has become something of a social dance these days and is now widely viewed as a dance to honor war veterans. But has the gourd dance strayed from its original meaning? Our guest is Bill Koomsa Jr., (Kiowa) a descendant of Kiowa Gourd Dance Chief White Bear.

Wednesday, April 23, 2008 – Music Maker: Stoney Creek : (listen)
If you have already broken out the duct tape to repair your suitcase or last season’s busted drumstick, then perhaps you’re ready for powwow season. Revved up and ready to roll are the Stoney Creek Singers, who are sending out the vibes with their latest release “Powwow Trail Blazin’.” This east-of-the-Mississippi group has made the trip to many tribal nations to share their songs over the past 15 years and they are gaining more notoriety with each beat. Guests include Marty Richardson (Haliwa-Saponi) Drum Keeper /Co-Manager and Sandon Jacobs (Waccamaw-Siouan) Co-Manager/ singer.

Thursday, April 24, 2008 – What Makes an Elder?: (listen)
Have you ever wondered what it takes to be considered an elder in your village? Age is often the most common way to define an elder, and whether or not you have grandchildren is another. But, many recognized elders say it also requires you to “walk your talk,” show kindness and behave responsibly toward your community. What makes an elder an elder? Our guest is Agnes Baker Pilgrim (Confederated Tribes of Siletz).

Friday, April 25, 2008 – Cross Cultural Medicine: (listen)
In recent years, there has been a growing movement to forge traditional Native medicinal practices with modern Western science and medicine. But are health care providers and medical students actually buying in to this movement? What is the relationship between the two philosophies? Do you feel that, in order to receive the best health care possible, that these differing practices should be combined? Guests are Dr. Terry Maresca (Mohawk) professor at the University of Washington, School of Medicine and Dr. Ben Muneta (Navajo/Apache) retired IHS physician.

Monday, April 28 , 2008 – Yankton Hog Farm Protest: (listen)
More arrests have been made in South Dakota as tribal members continue to protest across the site where a hog farm is being built. The farm is being built near Yankton Sioux tribal lands and tribal members are concerned about potential air and water contamination. State troopers have arrested dozens of protestors for disorderly conduct. A group called the Yankton Sioux Tribe Head Start Concerned Parents filed a complaint in federal court to halt the project. Who will win out? Our guest is Oi Zephier (Yankton Sioux), a former tribal police officer for the Yankton Sioux Tribe.

Tuesday, April 29, 2008 – Book of the Month: Lines from a Mined Mind: (listen)
The mind is a terrible thing to waste but a mined mind is terrible to be silenced. As poetry month comes to an end, the words that express what the human spirit endures and goes through are set free in John Trudell’s (Santee Sioux) latest book “Lines from a Mined Mind.” The collection of writings – from nearly a quarter century of his life – has converged in one place to help shake loose the restraints of being and intelligence. How does thinking arm the human soul against the world around them? Can out thinking an enemy prove to be mightier than any hand held weapon?

Wednesday, April 30, 2008 – Culture Shock for Native Students: (listen)
American Indian and Alaska Native students moving from isolated, rural reservations and villages to campuses in urban areas are prone to culture shock. Some Native students find it difficult to overcome the challenges when they leave home. Some lack transportation and other financial resources, while others lack a solid support system being so far from familiar surroundings. What is being done to help ease this transition? Guests include Amy Lloyd (Zuni,) Director of Cook Inlet Tribal Council Educational Services and Wyatt LaRocque (Turtle Mountain Ojibwe), a student at the Institute of American Indian Arts.

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Thursday, May 1, 2008 – The Trials of Hiring Tribal Lawyers: (listen)
Indian law is a multi-million dollar business. Tribal legal issues have become very sophisticated in today’s world. Many times when you read about or hear of tribes in the news, some type of legal matter is part of the story. There are many factors tribes must consider when choosing a lawyer to represent them in court. Should whether that lawyer is Native be one of them? Do Native lawyers have more of a vested interest in tribal court cases? Guests include South Dakota State Representative Tom Van Norman (Cheyenne River Sioux).

Friday, May 2, 2008 – Most Memorable Powwow Moment: (listen)
What is your most memorable powwow moment? Does it sound something like “when the drum beat started to pound and my moccasin flew off,” or is it more like “the first time I saw my wife she was shimmering in the sun at grand entry?” With powwow season in full swing we are taking time to reminisce about memorable moments in and around the powwow circle. Thinking of your years at powwows, what stands out the most? How many of those powwow moments led to even greater moments in your life? Join us for our open lines discussion.

Monday, May 5, 2008 – Disenrollment of Tribal Members: (listen)
The Snoqualmie Tribe of Washington has banished eight tribal members and removed 60 other members from the tribal rolls. This action is adding fuel to this fiery, controversial issue that is sweeping across Indian Country. The disenrollment of the Cherokee Freedmen in Oklahoma is causing a slugfest in the U.S. Congress, and California tribes are still on the hot seat for kicking members out of their tribes. What would it take for you to be in favor of disenrolling a member of your tribe? Our guest is veteran journalist Tim Giago (Oglala Lakota).

Tuesday, May 6, 2008 – Current Events: (listen)
A land dispute in Mohawk territory in Canada is raising tensions as tribal members continue to clash with Ontario Provincial Police. The Institute of American Indian Arts has launched the American Indian National Center for Television and Film in Los Angeles. Collectors, dealers and fans of Native art will celebrate Memorial Day weekend in Santa Fe, and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration is reaching out to Native America for their TV Converter Box Coupon Program. Do you have a big event coming up in your community?

Wednesday, May 7, 2008 – Sharing Our Medicine with Non-Natives: (listen)
As a Native person, if you were asked to share what you know about your traditional medicine ways with someone outside your tribe, would you divulge? And what would be your thoughts if they shared that knowledge with the rest of the world? Although these questions may seem like something that our great-great grandparents never fathomed, some Natives today are faced with answering them. What would it mean to you if a non-Native was allowed to learn or participate in your tribal traditional healing ways? Our guest is Charles Langley, author of “Meeting the Medicine Men.”

Thursday, May 8, 2008 – Keeping the Wraps on our Drug Crisis: (listen)
If we are proud Native communities with strong cultures, why has it been so easy for drugs like methamphetamine to infiltrate our close knit communities where everybody is related and everyone knows everyone’s business?  Can saying nothing give the message that we are accepting the problem? And when your own family or parent is a part of the problem with either abusing or providing the drugs what can you do? Is a homegrown message the only way to halt what seems an unstoppable force? Guests include Justes Wilson (Oglala Lakota) organizer/Death to Meth concert. 

Tuesday, May 13, 2008 – Recognition of New Tribes: (listen)
From California to Michigan to Florida, groups across the country are awaiting word whether or not they will exist as an Indian tribe. While the Lumbees of North Carolina are seeking federal recognition through Congress, other groups are seeking approval through the BIA. Why, in this day and age, are groups still in pursuit of tribal acknowledgment? Is it to cash in on potential benefits, or to validate cultural identity? Do you think that any new groups should be granted tribal status? Guests are Vice Chairman of the Gun Lake Tribe, John Shagonabi and Annawon Weedon (Mashpee.)

Wednesday, May 14, 2008 – 20 Years of Self Governance: (listen)
There were many Native leaders involved in the passage of legislation that gave many tribal nations control of their own destiny 20 years ago. Their legacy is linked to the success stories surrounding tribal self-governance today. Over the past two decades, tribes have demonstrated the ability to exercise their inherent self-governing powers by taking control over their own affairs. What were the challenges and rewards that this federal legislation gave to tribes? And what is in store for the future when it comes to tribal self-governance? Guests are Hankie Ortiz, Esq., (Kiowa/Caddo/Comanche) Director, Office of Tribal Self Governance/Indian Health Service, Sharee Freeman of the Department of the Interior of Self Governance, Don Kashevaroff, President of the Seldovia Village Tribe and Henry Cagey, Chairman of the Lummi Nation.

Thursday, May 15, 2008 – Special Diabetes Program for Indians: (listen)
Diabetes impacts Native American populations at much higher rates than other ethnic groups in the U.S. The Special Diabetes Program for Indians (SDPI) provides funds for diabetes research and prevention initiatives. U.S. lawmakers will soon decide whether to reauthorize and increase funding for the program for another five years. Proponents of the program say it has improved the quality of life for Native people. Is more money the answer to getting control of the diabetes epidemic? Guests are Dr. Yvette Robideaux (Rosebud Siuox,) the Chair of the Awakening the Spirit Team of the American Diabetes Association, Tammy Brown with the Indian Health Service and Lorane Valdez (Isleta) with the Indian Health Service.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008 - Planning Native Communities with a Native Mind: (listen)
Have you ever taken a moment to ponder the layout of your tribal community? Before the influence of modernization, Native people used their cultural relationship with the Earth to actively plan their villages and towns. Over the years legislation and laws that govern how we relate to our land have presented challenges to this thought. Is your community layout in tune with your tribe’s spiritual world? Guests are Professor Ted Jojola (Isleta Pueblo,) co-founder of the Indigenous Planning Division, and George Atta, Chief Community Planner/Group 70 in Hawaii.

Wednesday, May 21, 2008 – Mohawks, Smuggling and Border Security: (listen)
Land claims, sovereignty and smuggling continue to further confrontations among the Mohawks and agencies of the Canadian and U.S. governments. A recent report by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police alleges that tobacco, firearms and drugs are being smuggled across the border through Mohawk territory which straddles New York, Ontario and Quebec. Are the Mohawks being unfairly targeted as a threat to Canadian and American border security? Why aren't they being brought to the table to discuss solutions? Our guests are journalist Doug George-Kanentiio (Akwesasne Mohawk) and Chief of Police Lewis Mitchell (Akwesasne Mohawk).

Thursday, May 22, 2008 – Staying Safe During Graduation: (listen)
Summer’s almost here and for many students that means graduation is here. For high school graduates, especially, it’s a rite of passage and a new beginning that is often marked by a big celebration. If you’re in charge of the ensuing party, what do you need to know to make sure your grad and their guests have a good time, while staying safe? Guests are David Sullivan (Kiowa,) Advisor for Anadarko Unity Council and Stephan Wallace, Chaiman and CEO of SADD.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008 – Native in the Spotlight: Jim Pepper Henry: (listen)
Museums are placing more emphasis on attracting new visitors and less on their collections. There is also a trend to change the stigma of museums among Native Americans as repositories of stolen artifacts and antiquities as a result of colonization. We will put the spotlight on Jim Pepper Henry (Kaw/Muscogee Creek), the new director of the Anchorage Museum and former Associate Director of the National Museum of the American Indian. Are America’s museums being redefined from a Native perspective?

Wednesday, May 28, 2008 – Book of the Month: Native Athletes in Action: (listen)
There is a false perception that Native American athletes cannot make it to the professional level or the top level of their sport. Vincent Schilling (St. Regis Mohawk) has compiled and written a book that profiles Native athletes such as Jordin Tootoo (Inuit) of the National Hockey League, Olympic wheelchair racer Cheri Becerra-Madsen ( Omaha ), downhill speed skier Ross Anderson (Cheyenne Arapaho/Mescalero Apache), Olympic figure skater Naomi Lang (Karuk), Indianapolis 500 race car driver Cory Witherill (Navajo), and others. Who’s your favorite Native athlete?

Thursday, May 29, 2008 – *PROGRAM CHANGE* Protecting the Land You Love: (listen)
For indigenous peoples, it is not hard to imagine your community being closely tied to the land it is surrounded by and lives upon. Now, imagine that a multi-national corporation wants to mine for uranium, or other natural resources on the land you love. Your water, your health and maybe even your community’s ability to stay on its homeland may be at risk. What would you do? Different strategies may work for different communities, what are tribes doing when confronted with unwelcome mining? Guests are Bob Lovelace (Ardoch Algonquin First Nation), chief negotiator for his tribe, Leona Morgan (Dine), Organizer for the Southwest Research Information Center and Manny Pino (Acoma) who is a professor of Sociology at Scottsdale Community College.

Friday, May 30, 2008 – Reality TV Meets the Natives: (listen)
Do you watch reality TV shows? Have you ever sat back and wondered “when will I see someone who looks like me – a Native person – on some of these episodes?” Or did you say, “It’s a good thing this wasn't shot on my rez or in my village?” Believe it or not, reality TV has tapped into the indigenous world. From “Road Rules” in the early 90s to today’s “Little People, Big World” and “American Idol,” Natives are painting real pictures of Natives on television. When the reality TV camera crews come a knockin’ on your door, what will be your response? Guests are actor Robert Vestal (Cherokee) and Terry Piestewa (Hopi), whose daughter died in combat in Iraq and was therefore the featured recipient of a house built by a reality TV program.

Monday, June 2, 2008 – The Challenges of Basketweavers: (listen)
Sometimes to keep a tradition alive you have to overcome obstacles that a changing world brings. For many basketweavers who continue the traditions their ancestors passed down to them – such as gathering materials from the wild – it is especially challenging. Mining, pesticides, and land development affect all Native basketweavers. What are the answers to keeping a tradition alive when modernization threatens it? Guests are Lucy Parker (Yosemite Miwok/Mono Lake and Paiute/Kashaya Pomo) Chairwoman of the California Indian Basketweavers Association and Theresa Secord (Penobscot) who is the Executive Director of the Maine Indian Basketmakers Alliance.

Tuesday, June 3, 2008 – Current Events: (listen)
The National Congress of American Indians is holding their mid-year meeting in Nevada and one of the top issues is their Native Vote Campaign. A Native American delegation will visit the Down Under to perform at The Dreaming Festival, one of Australia ’s premiere indigenous arts and culture events. The Hopi Agricultural & Food Symposium is coming up and the Peabody Essex Museum in Massachusetts will display the unique viewpoints of Inuit artists from Alaska and Canada .

Thursday, June 5, 2008 – 2010 Olympics & Aboriginal Protests: (listen)
Protests over Tibet have dogged the 2008 Summer Olympic festivities in China , but have you heard about the protests surrounding the 2010 Winter Olympics in British Columbia ? The B.C. Games are scheduled to be held on unceded Salish, Stl’at’imc, and Squamish lands. The communities seem to have little choice in the matter although some members are taking matters into their own hands. How will the international community react to aboriginal protests? Guests include Tribal Chief and Chairman Saul Terry of the St'at'imc First Nation.

Friday, June 6, 2008 – AIM: American Indian Mafia: (listen)
A new book called “American Indian Mafia: An FBI Agent’s True Story About Wounded Knee, Leonard Peltier, and the American Indian Movement ( AIM )” is making big waves across Indian Country. The book claims to expose the “dirty little secrets of the AIM leadership.” What really happened on the Pine Ridge Reservation in the early 70’s? Who shot the FBI special agents? Can Native America trust an account of these events from a former FBI agent who was there? Guests are author Joseph H. Trimbach, former FBI Special Agent in Charge at Pine Ridge and co-author John Trimbach.

Monday, June 9, 2008 – Buying Back the Land: (listen)
Tribes across the U.S. are purchasing former ancestral lands and putting those lands into federal trust. Non-Native opponents of this now common practice say it’s unfair because it cuts into the local tax base and disrupts development of the community. But tribal officials contend that now that they have economics on their side, mostly in the form of casino profits, it’s perfectly within their legal rights to buy back the land and place it within tax-free status. Why are tribes buying so much land? Would you sell your property to an Indian tribe? Our guest is Cris Stainbrook (Oglala Lakota), President of the Indian Land Tenure Foundation.

Tuesday, June 10, 2008 – Reducing Stress with Culture: (listen)
Do you ever feel your life, and your body, is out of balance? Do you ever feel stressed out because you’re trying to do ten things at once? The National Indian Women’s Health Resource Center is hosting a conference that aims to help Native women get back in balance physically, spiritually, mentally and emotionally. One of the concepts the conference will emphasize is cultural methods of stress relief like singing, dancing, and laughing. Can the secrets to reducing stress be found within our traditional tribal culture? Guests are Phyllis Spears (Cherokee), a master’s level RN who works in health promotion in the Tucson, AZ area and Julia Davis-Wheeler (Nez Perce) Vice-Chair/Nez Perce Tribe of Idaho.  

Wednesday, June 11, 2008 – Funny, You Don’t Look Indian: (listen)
Virtually every Native person has heard it said about themselves, a family member or a friend. Many people have said it, and if not, at least thought it, to folks of Native descent. Inter-racial Natives have dealt with prying questions and speculative glances for almost as long as non-Natives have been on the continent. Why is it necessary, or even acceptable, to pigeon-hole ourselves and others into easy-to-identify ethnic groups? How do you feel and/or react when someone questions your Native-ness? Guests are Michelle Redmond (Seneca descendant) and singer Radmilla Cody (Dine).

Thursday, June 12, 2008 – Music Maker: Samantha Crain: (listen)
From the Oklahoma-born and bred singer/songwriter Samantha Crain (Choctaw), comes “The Confiscation,” a collection of short stories in the form of song. This musical novella tells a story of redemption and betrayal. Crain has recorded a unique and haunting set of songs that evokes a traditional folk sound. Only 21 years old, her songwriting is beyond her years, and her lyrics of disaster and despair coexist peacefully with anthems of community and reconciliation. While each narrative on this EP is of a different voice, they all relate, as do the people involved. Join us and meet our Music Maker of the Month.