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When CNN aired a graphic with racial breakdowns of voters, it included a category called “Something Else” for those not under the white, Black, Latino or Asian labels. Native Americans were quick to respond with sharp criticism that spread across social media. The Native American Journalists Association called for an apology from the media network. “Something Else” also speaks to the pervasive exclusion of Indigenous people in polls and research. In this program, we’ll talk about how being in a “Something Else” category affects Indigenous voices and experiences.
Guests:
Francine Compton (Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nations) – president of the Native American Journalists Association
Judith LeBlanc “La Blank” (member of the Caddo Nation of Oklahoma) – director of the Native Organizers Alliance
President Jonathan Nez (Diné) – Navajo Nation president
Break 1 music: Something Else (song) Orlando Cruz (artist)
Break 2 music: Hoka Hey (feat. Jayden Paz & Dancin Dave) [Radio Version] (song) DJ krayzkree (artist) Future Generations (album)
The erasure of Native American demographic identity in national media charts, statistics and inclusion started in the 1970s. If America doesn’t recognize a people the people don’t exist.
There was an interesting Bill Moyers interview about 4 years ago with a Black Professor who explained this very well.