Monday, September 12, 2022 – Inspiring space exploration

Nicole Aunapu Mann is scheduled to become the first Indigenous woman in space later this month with the launch of NASA’s SpaceX Crew Dragon. The Wailacki Nation astronaut is headed to the International Space Station as the mission commander. The space flight also comes as NASA’s new James Webb Space Telescope is providing awe-inspiring images and scientific revelations that promise new insights into the origins of the universe. Monday on Native America Calling, Shawn Spruce hears from Dr. Aaron Yazzie (Diné), mechanical engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory; George Gorospe (Laguna Pueblo), senior research engineer at NASA Ames Research Center; and Edward Gonzales (Apache and Mexican), Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Lead for NASA about how Native people are playing bigger roles in major space exploration advances.

Tuesday, September 13, 2022 – Alternatives to conventional loans

Native borrowers have a number of choices beyond the bank loan to finance big items like homes and starting a business. Tuesday on Native America Calling, Shawn Spruce looks at who’s eligible for various alternative financing options and whether they’re appropriate for your next major endeavor.

Wednesday, September 14, 2022 – The lingering rental housing crisis

A new survey finds Native American renters faced evictions at a far higher rate than other ethnic groups over the past year. The report comes as the U.S. Census Bureau estimates there could be as many as 3.8 million evictions by October. At the same time, there is some glimmer of hope for renters. Realtor.com shows average rent prices were mostly flat compared to a year ago and employment data shows the labor market is rebounding following the pandemic. Wednesday on Native America Calling, Shawn Spruce talks about the status of the rental market and evictions.

Thursday, September 15, 2022 – Queen Elizabeth’s legacy: Indigenous people and the Royal Family

Indigenous leaders are among those reflecting on the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II. Her supporters mourn her recent death. Many others take the opportunity to question her role in important issues such as reconciliation for Indigenous peoples in Canada. The Queen and the rest of the Royal Family are largely figureheads for the United Kingdom, but have a significant platform for advancing important causes. Thursday on Native America Calling, Shawn Spruce examines the late Queen’s 70-year reign and the prospect of a new British monarch from an Indigenous perspective.

Friday, September 16, 2022 – The intersection of Japanese anime and Native art

Anime, a style of Japanese animation, is wildly popular. There’s something about the large eyes, flawless features, and the exaggerated cuteness of the characters that draws in legions of fans around the globe. There are super powers, supernatural villains, epic battles, impossible comedic situations, and love stories. It’s no wonder some contemporary Native artists draw from anime styles and vibes for their own works. Friday on Native America Calling, Andi Murphy speaks with artists and designers bridging the Pacific.

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