The devastating impact of COVID-19 on the Native American community has yet to be a focus of the national conversation. At the same time, the coronavirus pandemic has highlighted other ongoing tensions around sovereignty, including the federal fight over Mashpee Wampanoag reservation lands, and has created a financial crisis because of the shutdown of tribal casinos. All this occurs as indigenous communities fight for the recognition that would bring resources and other much-needed support.

GUESTS:

Jean-Luc Pierite, president of the board of directors of the North American Indian Center of Boston and member of the Tunica-Biloxi Tribe of Louisiana.

Darren Lone Fight, cultural studies scholar and member of the Three Affiliated Tribes in North Dakota.

Talia Landry, productions manager for MashpeeTV and the Mashpee Wampanoag Community Development Corporation board president.

LATER IN THE SHOW:

How To Turn White Privilege Into Antiracist Allyship

Anti-racism protests have spread to all 50 states and across the world since George Floyd died at the hands of a Minneapolis police officer last month. Floyd’s death followed several recent high-profile acts of racism committed against black people. White antiracists say there is a role for white people who want to be a part of this demand for justice, and it starts with a clear understanding of how to use white privilege as a force for change.

Guests:

Debby Irving, racial justice educator and author of "Waking Up White: And Finding Myself in the Story of Race."

Dr. Jacqueline Battalora, attorney and professor of sociology at Saint Xavier University, Chicago, author of "Birth of a White Nation: The Invention of White People and Its Relevance Today," and former Chicago police officer.

SHOW CREDITS:

Our theme music is FISH AND CHIPS by #weare2saxys’, Grace Kelly and Leo P.

Thanks for listening.