IllumiNative On-Air

IllumiNative•www.illuminatives.org

For decades, the lack of representation and information about Native American peoples has perpetuated damaging myths and stereotypes. IllumiNative is an initiative, created and led by Natives, to challenge the negative narrative that surrounds Native communities and ensure accurate and authentic portrayals of Native communities are present in pop culture and media. IllumiNative seeks to change that. Our brand new podcast, IllumiNative On-Air, will showcase stories and news from all over Indian Country to support and illuminate contemporary Native voices, stories, and issues to audiences here on Turtle Island and beyond.

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Episodes

We Have Medicine for Each Other

In this week’s episode, we focus on continuing our focus on anti-racism and the alliances that Black and Indigenous people can make during these momentous times. Up first, Jana Schmieding interviews Black Pamunkey writer, producer, and performer, Azie Dungey, to discuss how Black liberation and Native justice movements are directly linked. Azie breaks down the origins of anti-Blackness in her tribal history and how the insidiousness of anti-Blackness manifests in her life today. Then we listen t...

Jul 30, 2020•55 min•Season 1Ep. 7

The Zombie Pipeline

In this episode, series producer Monica Braine (Assiniboine/Lakota) talks with the editor of Indian Country Today, Mark Trahant (Shoshone-Bannock), about the recent developments surrounding the reckonings on controversial statues, and the struggles to keep up with inconsistent Covid-19 public guidelines. Producer Tara Gatewood brings us the latest from the frontlines of the Keystone XL pipeline protests and how those on the ground have had to shift their tactics due to Covid-19. We also check in...

Jul 02, 2020•43 min•Season 1Ep. 6

A Call to Action

George Floyd’s murder has spurred a call for justice across the country. IlllumiNative stands with the Black Lives Matter movement to change the institutions of power that drive systemic racism. In this episode series producer Monica Braine (Assiniboine/Lakota), talks with the editor of Indian Country Today, Mark Trahant (Shoshone-Bannock), about how he sees the recent events as potentially the beginning of the end of the United States. He also connects our current situation to historical events...

Jun 09, 2020•29 min•Season 1Ep. 6

An Island of Safety in a Sea of Uncertainty

In this week’s episode we interview Shandiin Herrera to discuss Covid-19 fundraising efforts and voting advocacy. We also check in with the Cheyenne River Sioux tribe and the growing standoff between the South Dakota governor, Kristi Noem, and the tribe over road checkpoints. The week’s big news is also discussed with Indian Country Today Editor, Mark Trahant. Produced By: Allison Herrera (Xolon Salinan), Jana Schmieding (Mniconjou Lakota), Crystal Echo Hawk (Pawnee) Series Producer: Monica Brai...

May 23, 2020•30 min•Season 1Ep. 5

Mauna Kea Update

In this week’s episode, IllumiNative highlights the latest efforts to protect a sacred mountain, Mauna Kea. Protesters recently left the mountain after a long demonstration against building yet another telescope. We also share highlights from one of the panels featured recently during IllumiNative’s Virtual Town Hall. This Town Hall explores how the crisis has further highlighted the invisibility, inequality, and health disparities that Native Americans and communities of color are facing during...

May 08, 2020•30 min•Season 1Ep. 3

Transitioning in the Age of COVID-19

Our second episode brings you stories from across the country and unpacks issues related to COVID-19 and Indian Country. IllumiNative Executive Director Crystal Echo Hawk speaks again with Indian Country Today Editor, Mark Trahant, about the importance of data collection and reporting. We’ll also hear from artists who are struggling to make ends meet due to canceled exhibitions and slowing sales as well as how marketplace organizers are adapting in the age of COVID-19. We check in with the Seatt...

May 01, 2020•41 min•Season 1Ep. 2

Inaugural Episode

IllumiNative’s inaugural podcast episode brings you stories from across America and unpacks issues related to Covid-19 and Indian Country – from the CARES Act and how it impacts tribes, to interviews with those on the frontlines of the Coronavirus pandemic. Host and IllumiNative Executive Director Crystal Echo Hawk interviews Indian Country Today Editor, Mark Trahant, about the issues facing Indian Country in the midst of Covid-19. Oglala Sioux Tribal President, Julian Bear Runner tells us about...

Apr 23, 2020•44 min•Season 1Ep. 1