Monday, June 23, 2014 – The Future of Native Education
Teachers are taking a well-deserved break right now. But the conversation about improving education for Native American students never stops. In President Obama’s recent speech on the Standing Rock Sioux reservation, he said “let’s put our minds together to improve our schools — because our children deserve a world-class education, too, that prepares them for college and careers.” Improving education for Native students can take many forms. Join us as we discuss Native education reform with Native educators. Guests include: Kara Bobroff (Navajo/Lakota) founder and principal of the Native American Community Academy and Ahniwake Rose (Cherokee/Muscogee) executive director of the National Indian Education Association.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014 – Dam Removal
Dams can serve many purposes but some dams built in the 20th century caused unintended consequences. There’s a growing movement in some parts of the United States to remove dams and return rivers to their original form. Whether spurred on by aging infrastructure or litigation, the decision to tear down these structures is complex and often emotional. Join us as we learn more about current and past dam removal projects in Native America.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014 – Contemporary Alaska Native Art
Art forms in Native communities across Alaska are influenced by culture, tradition, geography and contact with people who arrived from Europe and Russia. In this hour, we will explore how artists respond to contemporary issues while also drawing on the traditions of their community. Are you an artist who balances culture and contemporary influences? Who are your favorite Alaska Native artists today? This program is part of the Native Artists of Alaska Radio Series.
Thursday, June 26, 2014 – Smoke Signals the Movie Reunion
It’s been 16 years since film “Smoke Signals” made its way to audiences around the country. The film is now a beloved classic among both Native and non-native audiences. It’s often hailed for its view on modern day life for Native Americans. What has this film meant to you over the years? Can you recite some scenes word for word? We invite you to join us as we open the hour to the original cast and crew to explore the long term impact of “Smoke Signals.” Guests include Sherman Alexie (Spokane/ Coeur d’Alene), Chris Eyre (Cheyenne and Arapaho), Evan Adams (Sliammon First Nation), Irene Bedard (Inupiaq Yup’ik) and others.
Friday, June 23, 2014 – Trademark Cancelled
Last week, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office cancelled the Washington DC football team’s trademark registration. The ruling does not limit the use of the team name, but if upheld may lead to financial losses for the team. Where do you stand on the cancellation of the trademark? Guests include: Suzan Shown Harjo (Cheyenne/Hodulgee Muscogee) President of the Morning Star Institute and Amanda Blackhorse (Navajo) principal plaintiff in the lawsuit Blackhorse et al v. Pro Football Inc.
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.