Monday, June 29, 2015 – What Makes Us Native?
Earlier this month, a woman named Rachel Dolezal occupied the media spotlight over allegations that she was pretending to be black. She stepped down from her position as president of the Spokane NAACP, but in several interviews she said she identifies as black, although both of her parents are white. The controversy sparked many conversations about race and identity. What exactly makes us a specific race or ethnicity? Is it the biology passed down to us through our parents? Is it the color of our skin? Or is it the cultural practices and traditions we keep? Guests: Jonnie Tate Walker (Mniconjou Lakota), freelance journalist and social justice and human rights activist.
Tuesday, June 30, 2015 – Aloha Movie Controversy
This summer, filmmaker Cameron Crowe was criticized for casting white actress Emma Stone in the role of a multiracial character in the film Aloha. Cameron apologized publicly but the issue was not an isolated one. How do you feel when you see white actors playing characters that are supposed to be Native American, Alaska Native or Indigenous? Is it any different if the character is fictional, like Tonto in the Lone Ranger, or a character based on the life of a real person? Join our conversation about the casting of Indigenous characters in film and television.
Wednesday, July 1, 2015 – Sewing in Native America
Sewing machines filled with miles of thread can stamp out the simplest garment and the most lavish gowns. The art of sewing, whether by hand or on a machine, is what clothes each of us. In Native America, sewing is used for basic purposes and it’s used to make traditional and religious attire. How has fashion and color use changed over time? How has technology had an influence on the art of sewing? And what are some basic tips for starters?
Thursday, July 2, 2015 – Bringing Language Home
Many communities across our Native nations are working hard to revitalize and grow their languages. There are many efforts to help young people speak and understand their Native language. But what happens when students come home from their classes to a household where family members do not speak or have limited language proficiency? Are students in danger of losing what they learn in school if they don’t speak it at home? Or could a young person’s new found knowledge spark interest in the family to learn and speak their language? Guests: Chase Iron Eyes (Lakota) – father of a student at the Lakȟól’iyapi Hoȟpí (Lakota Language Nest).
Friday, July 3, 2015 – **Encore** Tribal Constitutions
Modern tribal nations pass laws, exercise criminal jurisdiction, and enjoy extensive powers when it comes to self-governance and matters of sovereignty. Yet out of 566 tribal nations, just under half have adopted written constitutions. In the American tradition, a constitution limits the power yielded by governments over citizens, which raises a question: how can the rights of tribal citizens be protected if tribal nations have yet to codify their own functions and operations? Join us as we discuss government power, sovereign status, and whether modern tribal nations are serving the needs of their citizens by adopting constitutions.
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.