Episode description

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 his forward-thinking actions before Covid-19 reached his nation. We’ll hear from members of Congress, including Congresswoman Deb Haaland, and connect with first responders on the frontlines at the Navajo Reservation who are putting their lives on the line to make sure there are enough Covid-19 tests for anyone who needs one. 

Interviews with: President Julian Bear Runner (Oglala Sioux Tribe), Senator Tom Udall, Congresswoman Deb Haaland (Laguna Pueblo), Congressman Tom Cole (Chickasaw), Kevin Allis (Forest County Potawatomi Community) CEO of NCAI, Mark Trahant (Shoshone-Bannock), Mechem Frashier (Navajo), and Jessica Tsabetsaye (Zuni Pueblo).

Produced By: Tara Gatewood (Isleta Pueblo/Diné), Allison Herrera (Xolon Salinan), Monica Braine (Assiniboine/Hunkpapa Lakota), Crystal Echo Hawk (Pawnee)

Executive Producer: Heather Rae