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Some activists proudly refer to themselves as ‘radicals’. But “radicalized” has become the term to describe how people turn passive discontent with the government into violent action. It’s been used to describe the motivation behind the shooting attack on a nightclub in Orlando, the attempts by men from Minnesota to join the terror group ISIS, and the occupation of a federal wildlife refuge in Oregon by a group of land owners. But what really is radicalization and how do Native American activists react to increasing scrutiny–and consequences–of their actions? It’s normal to have a healthy skepticism towards elected officials or governmental policy, Where do you draw the line?
Guests:
Klee Benally (Diné) – project coordinator for Indigenous Action Media
Dr. Andrew Curley (Diné) deputy director of the Diné Policy Institute
Amanda Lickers (Seneca Six Nations) – curator for Reclaim for Turtle Island
Break Music: Matariki (song) Whiri Tū Aka (artist) Whiri Tū Aka (album)
There is radical, and then there is radical. Klee Benally is not a radical in your definition of a terror group and certainly, he cannot be compared to ISIS. Come on, now, that is extreme and bizarre. Men like Klee voice their discontent not with a singular voice, but with the elders, the healers, the traditional society of Native America who want sacred sites protected, and it is with humility and prayer that our voices ring out. #SavethePeaks
Firmly standing up for your convictions against something that the majority would think is wrong is the right thing to do.. Unfortunately not everyone has the courage to stand up for their convictions.