Special Editions | documentaries and special reports
Native Lights | stories of people within Minnesota’s Native communities
Greetings! Today we check in with Antony Stately, Ph.D. (Ojibwe/Oneida), CEO of Native American Community Clinic (NACC). NACC is located in the Phillips neighborhood in Minneapolis and provides health, dental, and counseling services to community members. Antony speaks about the challenges of managing a health care clinic during the pandemic, transitioning to telehealth, and we compare notes on the fun and foibles of distance learning.
Greetings! We are excited to catch up with renowned author, playwright and poet, Marcie Rendon (White Earth Nation) and we hear how she is using her time cooped up at home. Spoiler alert: she’s been writing funny stories and planning her garden! Enjoy this conversation with the insightful and creative Marcie Rendon.
Biidaapi: s/he comes laughing. (Ojibwemowin)
We are happy to say Boozhoo! to our friend James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw today. James is the creator of “Ojibwe Word of the Day,” which he shares on Facebook and YouTube, and he is a leading voice in Native Language revitalization efforts and spiritual teachings. James shares some Ojibwemowin that offers perspective and help for staying in balance during challenging times like this pandemic.
Boozhoo! Today we talk with RJ Dahl of Deer River (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe) to find out how he is coping and thriving during the pandemic, with humor and connection. RJ works at the White Oak Casino, which has been temporarily shut down, so now he’s focused on homeschooling his four kids. RJ stays connected to his buddies through video games, which has been a great way to joke and lift each other’s spirits in these strange times.
The CARES Act that was signed into law on March 27th provides emergency assistance and health care response for people, tribes and businesses affected by the Coronavirus pandemic. The law includes 8-billion dollars for tribes and urban Indian communities across the U-S. Reporter Melissa Townsend talked with U.S. Senator Tina Smith about provisions for Native communities. Smith represents Minnesota and serves on the U-S Senate Committee on Indian Affairs.
Businesses, artists, and freelance workers, among many others… are being hit hard by the economic reach of the COVID-19 pandemic and the precautions necessary to prevent the spread.
But as times get even more uncertain, there are adjustments and innovations that are being made.
Here’s reporter Leah Lemm with the story.
Hosts Leah Lemm and Cole Premo check-in with Tall Paul (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe) an Anishinaabe and Oneida Hip-Hop artist.
Tall Paul calls in to talk about family life, staying safe and smart, and how to continue with a workout routine while in the comfort of his own home.
And, of course, we talk about creating music in times of uncertainty.
This week on Minnesota Native News, we get an update on how tribes across the state are responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. We also hear about a native film series you can binge while quarantined in your homes .. plus a new podcast series from us! Here’s reporter Cole Premo with more.