Monday, May 2, 2016 – Reading and Writing in our Native Languages
First we learn to talk. And then comes reading and writing. In Native America, tribes and tribal members are working hard to revitalize and speak our Native languages. But what about the written word? In the mid-19th century, a Cherokee named Sequoyah invented a syllabary for the Cherokee language, which is still used today in publications and signs across the three Cherokee tribes. Where does the written word fit into your language? Is learning to read or write critical to the future of our languages?
Tuesday, May 3, 2016 – Cradleboards and other baby carriers
Cradleboards are useful, beautiful and can tell stories about the communities from which they come. For millennia, Native parents have been securely wrapping up their babies in adorned carriers. On this show we’ll explore the history of cradleboards and other baby baskets across tribal nations. We’ll also talk about how some parents today are returning to traditional baby carriers.
Wednesday, May 4, 2016 – Frontier of Change: an audio project on climate change in Alaska
The producers of “Frontier of Change” gathered stories from Alaska Native people whose lives are being affected by climate change. The project includes interviews, environmental audio and other sounds that bring this important story to life. We’ll hear from the producers about the project and how Indigenous communities are struggling with disappearing land, vanishing wildlife, erosion, and other catastrophes brought on by climate change. Are you seeing the effects of climate change in your Native community? How can storytelling address the issue?
Thursday, May 5, 2016 – Doctor shortage at IHS
Doctor shortages in Indian country make it difficult for patients to get the health care they were promised. The agency overseeing the Indian Health Service acknowledged in a hearing last year that IHS is short on providers. Officials revealed then that vacancy rates for physicians at IHS reached 20 percent in 2013. The number is even higher in certain areas. What are the long term effects to doctor and other medical care provider shortages in Indian country? Is more money the answer?
Friday, May 6, 2016 – Pomp and Circumstance
It’s graduation season and it’s time to celebrate graduates. They worked hard for years to get a piece of paper, a stamped seal, a tassel and a change in their educational status. In this hour, we celebrate Native graduates and find out how their culture mixes in with “Pomp and Circumstance.” Do you have a graduate in your family that you’re proud of? Tune in, call in and shout out.
***
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.