A free, two-day, virtual miniconference today and Thursday will explore Indigenous American audio journalism.
The event also involves several local university faculty members, according to information from sponsor Humanities Kansas. It’s all free and open to the public, but registration is required.
A keynote speaker will kick off each day of the miniconference from 4-5 p.m. Today, Mark Trahant, Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, the editor of “Indian Country Today,” will join a conversation with Melissa Green Blye, Miami, an assistant professor at the University of Kansas journalism school.
On Thursday, Rebecca Nagle, Cherokee, host and producer of the podcast “This Land,” will join Rhonda LeValdo in a conversation. LeValdo, Acoma Pueblo, is a radio host, journalist and a member of the faculty at Haskell Indian Nations University.
From 5:15-6:15 p.m. both days, speakers will participate in discussion panels. Today’s focus is on Indigenous radio past and present, featuring Peggy Berryhill (Muscogee), Tara Gatewood (Isleta Pueblo/Diné) and LeValdo. Kent Blansett (Cherokee, Creek, Coctaw, Shawnee and Potawatomi), the Langston Hughes Associate Professor at KU’s Indigenous studies program and department of history, will moderate.
“Broadcast journalists will discuss the enduring power of radio across generations, and why this traditional format is still relevant today,” according to Humanities Kansas.
Thursday’s panel, to be moderated by Joshua Miner, assistant professor of film and media studies and Indigenous studies at KU, will focus on the digital future of Indigenous audio media. Graham Lee Brewer (Cherokee), Allison Herrera (Xolon Salinan) and Connie Walker (Okanese First Nation) will discuss trends in digital Indigenous storytelling and how it’s reaching new audiences, according to the event page.
Register for today’s programs here. Save your spot for Thursday here. Read more about each of the panelists on the Humanities Kansas site here.
