Native America Calling

Newly-released research shows childhood obesity rates in Native America are stabilizing. The researchers behind the study say that’s good news for a population that statistically struggles with maintaining a healthy weight. We’ll talk with the scientists who conducted the study and other experts about the findings and what they mean for bringing obesity in our youth under control.

Congress is considering a measure to help fund Amber Alert systems on reservations. The bill gained momentum after the kidnapping and murder of 11-year-old Ashlynn Mike on the Navajo Nation last year. While a swift response to stranger abductions is important, the problem of missing children in tribal communities is more complex. Our guests for this show all have different perspectives on the problem of Native children who go missing and how to respond.

A new film premiering on public television examines two tribal court systems in California. Tribal Justice, follows Quechan tribal chief judge Claudette White and Yurok chief judge Abby Abinanti as they serve their communities. We’ll talk with the director and the judges about practicing tribal restorative justice

Whether you are heading to tribal college across town or traveling to a university miles away from home, the first day of class can be exciting and terrifying. We’ll have tips for surviving the first hour, day, week and months of college. From how to talk to your professor, to navigating a nutty roommate, we’ve got you covered for managing the maze of college. We’ll also have some ways high school seniors can think ahead to this day a year from now.

We’re recognizing National Radio Day coming up on Aug. 20 by hearing from some tribal radio stations around the country. Did you know there are nearly 60 tribal radio stations? They broadcast music, news, public affairs, locally-produced programs and Native America Calling. Many have programs in Native languages and all have a special connection and purpose in their communities. Help us celebrate by telling us listening to tribal radio means to you.

In Alaska, fish camp is a carryover of a time when Alaska Natives traveled with the seasons to harvest food. Today, it is a time to gather with family, catch and process fish for the winter. Drying, smoking and canning are all part of the experience. Fish camp is hard work, but the rewards of having traditional food in the middle of winter are worth it. We’ll talk with Alaska Natives from a variety of areas about their fish camp experiences.

More than a dozen filmmakers from across Turtle Island are featured in the 17th annual Native Cinema Showcase, held Aug. 15 to 20 during the Santa Fe Indian Market. We’re giving you an early preview and putting the spotlight on a few films as we talk about Native storytelling in the world of cinema.

As Western science took over the mainstream in North America, traditional Indigenous science took a backseat. It’s not taught in most schools Native children attend. Sometimes Indigenous science is not viewed as valuable by non-Native scientists. This can create conflicts when the two paths cross.

Every 4th of July, dozens of men gather in Carnegie Oklahoma to build an arbor for the annual Kiowa Gourd Clan Celebration. Hundreds of gourd dancers participate. Gourd dancing is a time-honored tradition, performed by men, with women supporting behind them. We’ll talk with the president and vice-president of the Kiowa Gourd Clan about the tradition and practice of gourd dancing.

Domestic violence brings to mind images of black eyes or broken bones. But sometimes the violence comes in the form of words that leave no visible marks. Insults, threats and humiliation are just a few examples of emotional abuse. Sometimes it can lead to physical violence, sometimes it doesn’t. In our Native communities, emotional abuse can take the form of belittling traditional methods or preventing a partner from spiritual practices. We’ll talk with experts about the signs of emotional abuse what steps can be taken to address it.