Monday, December 14, 2015 – Celebrating John Trudell
John Trudell was a complex and charismatic poet, musician, actor and activist. We take time to highlight the accomplishments of the man whose life touched so many others. His early years were devoted to activist causes, including a leadership post with AIM. He later released 14 albums of music starting with A.K.A. Grafitti Man. He also published a collection of his poetry and appeared in several films. His rich life inspired many others.
Tuesday, December 15, 2015 – Boxing in Native America
Going toe-to-toe with another person trying to punch you in the face is not everyone’s idea of a good time. But the sport of boxing is a way of life for some athletes in Native America. Modern day warriors compete in the ring for local, national and even international titles. Sometimes they just duke it out to earn the respect of their gym. How is boxing connected to your Native community? How is it connected to your life?
Wednesday, December 16, 2015 – Remembering the Wounded Knee Massacre
This month marks 125 years since the massacre at Wounded Knee Creek. Estimates put the number of men, women and children killed at nearly 300. The U.S. government awarded 20 Medals of Honor to soldiers who participated in the massacre. For 25 years, the Chief Bigfoot Band Memorial Ride retraces Chief Bigfoot’s steps, ending at the Wounded Knee massacre site. This year the ride will include a ceremony to end all massacres. How can communities heal such trauma from the past?
Thursday, December 17, 2015 – Recap: “The Ridiculous 6”
After a wave of controversy on the set, Adam Sandler’s film “The Ridiculous 6” debuted on Netflix. In April, Native American actors walked out of production because they believed certain parts of the script were offensive. At the time, the argument took to social media with the hashtag #NotYourHollywoodIndian. Did the final product end up as bad as the hype?
Friday, December 18, 2015 – December Book of the Month: Warrior Nation: A History of the Red Lake Ojibwe by Anton Treuer
The Red Lake Nation reservation is home to the largest number of Ojibwe language speakers in Minnesota. Professor and linguist Anton Treuer conducted oral histories with Red Lake elders. He was also given access to Red Lake Nation archival collections. He paints a compelling and vital account that includes formation of the first modern Indigenous democratic governance system in the U.S. “Warrior Nation: A History of the Red Lake Ojibwe” is the December Book of the Month.
***
Native America Calling is a national call-in program that invites guests and listeners to join a dialogue about current events, music, arts, entertainment and culture.
The program is hosted by Tara Gatewood (Isleta Pueblo) and airs live each weekday from 1-2 pm Eastern.
Join the conversation by calling 1-800-996-2848.