Dallas Goldtooth on protecting Our Future: Indigenous Perspectives on Sovereignty and Advocacy
Joe Williams Joe Williams

Dallas Goldtooth on protecting Our Future: Indigenous Perspectives on Sovereignty and Advocacy

In this compelling episode of 5 Plain Questions, host Joe Williams engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with Dallas Goldtooth, a prominent Indigenous activist, actor, and comedian. Their conversation is framed by the pressing concerns surrounding the current political climate and its potential ramifications for Indigenous communities across the United States. Goldtooth articulates a clear and urgent call for awareness and action in response to policies enacted by the Trump administration, which he perceives as a significant threat to tribal sovereignty and environmental rights. The discourse is grounded in a historical context, drawing parallels to past governmental actions that have adversely affected Indigenous rights and resources, thereby establishing a continuity of struggle that resonates deeply with listeners.As the discussion unfolds, Goldtooth emphasizes the importance of community engagement and grassroots activism as vital components of resistance against oppressive policies. He advocates for a collaborative approach between tribal governments and community members, underscoring the necessity of fostering strong networks of support and advocacy. The episode also highlights the significance of narrative control, with Goldtooth urging Indigenous peoples to reclaim their stories and perspectives in a landscape often dominated by external narratives that seek to diminish their voices. This aspect of the conversation is particularly poignant, as it speaks to the broader theme of cultural preservation and the need for Indigenous communities to assert their identities and rights in the face of external pressures.Ultimately, this episode serves as both a sobering reflection on the challenges confronting Indigenous peoples and an empowering call to action. Williams and Goldtooth inspire listeners to actively participate in the advocacy for their rights, urging them to engage with their local leaders and the political process. The conversation reinforces the notion that informed and proactive community engagement is essential for safeguarding Indigenous sovereignty, cultural heritage, and environmental resources. As such, this episode encapsulates a vital message of resilience, solidarity, and the ongoing struggle for self-determination, encouraging listeners to reflect on their roles within this movement and to strive for a future that honors and respects Indigenous rights.
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Exploring the Weaving Legacy of DY Begay: An Indigenous Artist's Journey
Joe Williams Joe Williams

Exploring the Weaving Legacy of DY Begay: An Indigenous Artist's Journey

DY Begay, a fifth-generation Navajo weaver, eloquently embodies the intricate relationship between her art and her identity as an Earth Being, rooted in her rich clan heritage. In this profound dialogue, she elucidates the profound influence of her upbringing amidst generations of female weavers, where the traditional practices of her ancestors are woven into the very fabric of her artistic expression. Her tapestries not only reflect the natural beauty and diverse colors of her homeland but also serve as a spiritual testament to her connection with the land and its resources. As she embarks upon the exploration of contemporary design concepts, DY aspires to bridge the past with the present, ensuring that the narratives of her lineage endure through her work. This episode offers a remarkable glimpse into the life and artistic journey of a dedicated creator, illuminating the significance of cultural heritage in the realm of modern artistry.

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Urban Aztec: The Artistry of Jesse Hernandez
Joe Williams Joe Williams

Urban Aztec: The Artistry of Jesse Hernandez

Jesse Hernandez (@UrbanAztec) is a visual artist born and raised in the
 San Francisco bay area. He is most widely recognized for his street art murals, vinyl toys, and diverse Illustration work. His style is known as Urban Aztec, a combination of graffiti and ancient indigenous culture. Hernandez’s artwork has been featured by Marvel, Warner Bros, DC Comics, Gears of war 4, San Jose Sharks, The Oakland Museum, Rockstar energy drink, Rolling Stone, Fandango, Juxtapoz, X-Box, Playstation, WWE, Run the Jewels, Oakland Athletics, and the Cosmopolitan Las Vegas. Hernandez has shown art in galleries and museums around the world. He has also painted murals in Oakland, San Francisco, San Jose, Richmond, Los Angeles, Mexico city and Amsterdam. Website: Urbanaztec.comInstagram: @Urbanaztec
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Revitalizing Communities Through Storytelling: Paulette Moore's Vision
Joe Williams Joe Williams

Revitalizing Communities Through Storytelling: Paulette Moore's Vision

Kahstoserakwathe Paulette Moore is an independent filmmaker and Kanyen'kehà:ka (Mohawk) citizen. She is the founder of The Aunties Dandelion media organization which is focused on revitalizing communities through stories of land, language, and relationships. She spent 15 years in Washington, DC creating films for National Geographic, Discovery Channel, and others. And she a fluent Mohawk speaker (ACTFL Intermediate High).

Website: https://www.theauntiesdandelion.com/

Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4XI2I2r58vb2kVXRr5mKWb LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kahstoserakwathe/

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Empowering Voices: Secretary Deb Haaland on Indigenous Leadership
Joe Williams Joe Williams

Empowering Voices: Secretary Deb Haaland on Indigenous Leadership

Secretary Deb Haaland made history when she became the first Native American to serve as a cabinet secretary. She is a member of the Pueblo of Laguna and a 35th generation New Mexican. Secretary Haaland grew up in a military family; her father was a 30-year combat Marine who was awarded the Silver Star Medal for saving six lives in Vietnam, and her mother is a Navy veteran who served as a federal employee for 25 years at the Bureau of Indian Affairs. As a military child, she attended 13 public schools before graduating from Highland High School in Albuquerque. As a single mother, Secretary Haaland volunteered at her child's pre-school to afford early childhood education. Like many parents, she had to rely on food stamps at times as a single parent, lived paycheck-to-paycheck, and struggled to put herself through college. At the age of 28, Haaland enrolled at the University of New Mexico (UNM) where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in English and later earned her J.D. from UNM Law School. Secretary Haaland and her child, who also graduated from the University of New Mexico, are still paying off student loans. Secretary Haaland ran her own small business producing and canning Pueblo Salsa, served as a tribal administrator at San Felipe Pueblo, and became the first woman elected to the Laguna Development Corporation Board of Directors, overseeing business operations of the second largest tribal gaming enterprise in New Mexico. She successfully advocated for the Laguna Development Corporation to create policies and commitments to environmentally friendly business practices. Throughout her career in public service, Secretary Haaland has broken barriers and opened the doors of opportunity for future generations. After running for New Mexico Lieutenant Governor in 2014, Secretary Haaland became the first Native American woman to be elected to lead a State Party. She is one of the first Native American women to serve in Congress. In Congress, she focused on environmental justice, climate change, missing and murdered indigenous women, and family-friendly policies.

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