Native and Indigenous News
Navajo Nation Holds Government Promise over Water Rights in Supreme Court
The Supreme Court heard arguments Monday on the Navajo Nation’s right to file a lawsuit over access to water from the Colorado River.
Mountain West News Bureau: Indigenous News Update
Weekly Indigenous News from Mountain West News Bureau, a regional collaboration of public media stations that serve the Rocky Mountain States.
Native Lens Media Fellowship works on two short films to premiere at Durango Independent Film Festival
Seven Native Lens Media fellows have embraced hands-on experience from Indigenous film director, producer, and writer Brooke Pepion Swaney.
Local
City of Durango proposed 204-unit apartment complex in Riverview neighborhood
Community members commented on a newly proposed apartment complex in Durango.
Coronavirus
COVID-19 Update: San Juan Basin Public Health
Tribal Radio’s Sarah Flower talks with Executive Director of San Juan Basin Public Health Department, Liane Jollon, about what we’ve learned these past three years and what she thinks COVID-19 will look like in the years ahead.
Regional
Fort Lewis College Student Hikes to Raise Money for the College’s Free Food Pantry
One Fort Lewis College student is walking from Phoenix, Ariz., to Albuquerque, N.M., to raise money for the College’s food pantry.
Avalanche danger in southwest Colorado
Three people died from avalanche-related deaths this past weekend in southwest Colo. With a winter storm warning in effect until Thursday morning, avalanche forecasters are asking backcountry enthusiasts to be cautious.
Latest News
Navajo Nation Holds Government Promise over Water Rights in Supreme Court
The Supreme Court heard arguments Monday on the Navajo Nation’s right to file a lawsuit over access to water from the Colorado River.
COVID-19 Update: San Juan Basin Public Health
Tribal Radio’s Sarah Flower talks with Executive Director of San Juan Basin Public Health Department, Liane Jollon, about what we’ve learned these past three years and what she thinks COVID-19 will look like in the years ahead.
City of Durango proposed 204-unit apartment complex in Riverview neighborhood
Community members commented on a newly proposed apartment complex in Durango.
Fort Lewis College Student Hikes to Raise Money for the College’s Free Food Pantry
One Fort Lewis College student is walking from Phoenix, Ariz., to Albuquerque, N.M., to raise money for the College’s food pantry.
Mountain West News Bureau: Indigenous News Update
Weekly Indigenous News from Mountain West News Bureau, a regional collaboration of public media stations that serve the Rocky Mountain States.
KSUT bids farewell to Stasia Lanier
Sometimes a person is meant to do something. It just takes a little while for life and circumstance to catch up to destiny.
Native Lens Media Fellowship works on two short films to premiere at Durango Independent Film Festival
Seven Native Lens Media fellows have embraced hands-on experience from Indigenous film director, producer, and writer Brooke Pepion Swaney.
Avalanche danger in southwest Colorado
Three people died from avalanche-related deaths this past weekend in southwest Colo. With a winter storm warning in effect until Thursday morning, avalanche forecasters are asking backcountry enthusiasts to be cautious.
COVID funding ends in May. What you need to know?
Federal funding for COVID will expire in May. How the country has supported testing, treatment, and vaccines is expected to look much different in 2023.
Sports Coverage: Ignacio Lady Bobcats Head Coach Trae Seibel interview with Ray Dekay
Ray Dekay was live last evening for the Lady Bobcats game and caught up with head coach Trae Seibel about the season.
Winter Storm warning until Thursday morning for southwest Colorado
A winter storm warning is in effect until Thursday morning. The National Weather Service reports that this storm is different from the one the region has seen recently.
Native Lens Media Fellowship gears up for film training program
KSUT, with partners Rocky Mountain PBS (RMPBS), Vision Maker Media, and the Durango Independent Film Festival (DIFF) will present the first Native Lens Media Fellowship in Durango, CO, February 26-March 4, 2023.
First woman elected speaker of the Navajo Nation Council
The tribal council selected Crystalyne Curley as council speaker, the first woman ever to hold that position.
Tribal Water Media Fellowship recruitment event at Fort Lewis College
Join us for a recruiting event with Fort Lewis College's Four Corners Water Center.
Winter storm warning until Wednesday evening
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for Southwest Colorado and parts of Utah. Some residents at higher elevation should expect over a foot of snow.
Native American man to interpret ‘America the Beautiful’ in sign language at Super Bowl LVII
This Sunday, a deaf Navajo man will perform Native American Sign Language at the Superbowl.
Durango La Plata Airport new flights on Airbus A319 starts on March 26
Durango La Plata county airport will be seeing a much larger aircraft on their runway next month.
Workshops in Towaoc connect Ute Mountain Ute children with their culture
At the Ute Mountain Ute Recreation Center in Towaoc, Colorado, a handful of children learned to make traditional skirts. This 4-day-long afterschool workshop is part of Tiwahe and Project PEAK, a well-being program for tribal families and kids.
Durango 9-R School District provides programming for bilingual students
Michelle and Abril, both third graders, are reading Comiendo el Arcoiris/Eating the Rainbow and A que no me alcanzas!/Catch Me if You Can! They switch from English to Spanish easily and naturally, and they're excited about what they're reading.
KSUT welcomes new board member, Kirsten Langmade
Kirsten Qugyulek Langmade, a Fort Lewis College senior and Yu'pik Alaska Native, joined the KSUT board of directors in January 2023. She will serve a three-year term.
Covid Update: San Juan Basin Health Update
More information is coming out about long covid and how it’s affecting the workforce. Tribal Radio’s Sarah Flower talks with Liane Jollon, Executive Director of San Juan Basin Public Health Department about long covid and discusses three years of navigating this pandemic.
Tribal leaders celebrate law that bans the export of cultural tribal objects
Tribal leaders joined congressional lawmakers Wednesday to celebrate the recent signing of a federal law that bans the export of cultural tribal objects.
Navajo Nation President Nez vetoes helium extraction on last day in office
In one of his last decisions, former Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez vetoed a bill for helium extraction.
Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute Chairmen Deliver First Annual Address to Colorado State Legislature
The chairmen of the Southern Ute and Ute Mountain Ute tribes delivered their first annual address to the Colorado State Legislature on January 11.
Reclaiming food sovereignty in the Four Corners
Indigenous Food Sovereignty is a reclamation of Native American identity that incorporates traditional foods into meals to promote better health, food security and cultural reconnection.
Indigenous artist featured at Super Bowl for first time
For the first time, an Indigenous artist’s works will be featured at the Super Bowl, gracing game tickets, displays and a massive Super Bowl mural in downtown Phoenix with images that reflect her multicultural roots.
Apply now: KSUT is hiring a Membership Manager/Development Assistant
KSUT, an NPR Member Station serving southwest Colorado and the Four Corners region with two unique stations, seeks a Membership Manager/Development Assistant.
U.S. Department of Energy awards Energy Fuels Inc.
The US Department of Energy has contracted to purchase one million pounds of domestically produced uranium.
Indigenous youth missing in Archuleta County
An Indigenous, 14-year-old boy is missing in Pagosa Springs.
Pendletons and Ph.D.s
How one single mom uses her sewing machine to support her family, business and doctoral degree.
XBB.1.5 COVID variant: San Juan Basin Public Health update
The new variant XBB1.5 is quickly becoming the most dominant variant of COVID throughout the country.
Colorado’s Missing Indigenous Person Alert system
The Missing Indigenous Person Alert went into effect in the state of Colorado. It’s a public alert system for active cases of missing and murdered Indigenous people.
Colorado ski town emergency dispatch centers fielding dozens of automated 911 calls from skier iPhones
During a mid-December weekend the dispatchers at the Summit County 911 Center fielded 71 automated crash notifications from skiers’ iPhones and Apple watches at the county’s four ski areas. None of them involved an emergency.
Wildfires in Colorado Are Growing More Unpredictable. Officials Have Ignored the Warnings
A year after the deadly Marshall Fire drove thousands of Coloradans from their homes, the state’s densest communities aren’t preparing for the next climate-driven wildfire.
Office of Liaison for Colorado Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives hires director
The State of Colorado has hired Arron Julian director for its new Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives Office.
State health officials discuss the decline in respiratory infections
The CDC is reporting nationwide respiratory infections are up, compared to the last few years. But according to state health officials, Colorado’s numbers are declining.
Indigenous Wellbriety Program in Cortez
A new addiction recovery program in Cortez is using traditional Native approaches to healing and bridging the gap between addiction recovery and Native communities.
The Durango Chief Statue: Native Perspectives
A caricature sign depicting a Native American man at a Durango art gallery has been controversial for decades. Recent efforts to have it removed seem to have hit a dead end.
Missing woman’s family: ‘If she had white privilege, we would have answers’
As of Sunday, Mary Johnson-Davis had been missing for 746 days.
San Juan Basin Public Health last update for 2022
It’s been two years since COVID vaccines have become available to help fight this pandemic.
Centura Mercy Hospital CEO is building transparency
Centura Mercy Hospital is on its third CEO in three years. Brandon Mencini is working on bringing trust both internally and to the community at large. Mencini worked as an EMT in the Denver area for 20 years and most recently as a Chief Operating Officer at a Virginia hospital.
Ute Mountain Ute tribe calls on Federal Government to add land to the Reservation
Ute Mountain Ute Chairman Manuel Heart is calling on the federal government to designate a 20,000-acre ranch in Gunnison as reservation land.
Repatriation efforts are underway to return Arapaho and Shoshone hair samples from Harvard University
The Peabody Museum at Harvard University has a collection of hair samples taken from Indigenous people.
Northwestern Shoshone bring new life to the site of the Bear River Massacre
On a recent Thursday, Rios Pacheco walked around a grassy bluff down a dirt road near Preston, Idaho. He said dozens of artifacts lie beneath the ground, like old farm equipment and rail spikes from the 1800s.
RSV cases down, Influenza A virus and COVID increase rapidly
Recent data from Colorado is showing that cases of RSV might be on the decline. While this is welcomed news, cases of influenza A and COVID are rapidly increasing throughout the state.
Southern Ute Indian Tribe swear in two new council members
The Southern Ute Council Chambers were decorated with Christmas lights and holiday greenery. The round room was full of Southern Ute employees, family members, and members of neighboring tribes.
Navajo Nation Police Department warns tribal citizens about recruiters
The Navajo Nation Police Department has received numerous missing persons reports that they have traced to addiction treatment centers in Arizona. Now they are warning tribal communities about recruiters.
Double your support for KSUT News with a matching grant on Colorado Gives Day, Tuesday, December 6
All donations made to KSUT for Colorado Gives Day support its essential local and regional news coverage. Your pledge to KSUT will be matched by a grant from the Colorado Media Project and their #newsCOneeds campaign, up to $5000. This statewide campaign spotlights and supports great local journalism that serves our communities.
“The Stories We Wear” exhibit honors Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives at Fort Lewis College
Through hoop skirts and traditional Native regalia, dozens of students at Fort Lewis College created clothing to honor their missing and murdered Indigenous relatives.
Former Montezuma-Cortez school board member works to improve LGBTQ+ inclusion
n Cortez, LQBTQ issues provoke strong opinions from conservative and liberal residents. Lance McDaniel, a liberal activist in Cortez who was recalled from his seat on the school board a year and a half ago, stays involved in the community.
Call for Participants: Native Lens Media Fellowship
The Native Lens Media Fellowship is open to all applicants from American Indians, Alaska Natives
and Native Hawaiians aged 18-24 interested in learning the craft of video production and digital
storytelling.
COVID-19 positive rates up after the holidays
Pediatric ICU beds are dwindling across the state, and holiday gatherings are driving up positivity rates of COVID-19. KDUR’s Sarah Flower joins San Juan Basin Public Health department about the latest trends of the pandemic.
Colorado author Erika Wurth is part of a new wave of Indigenous literature
Colorado author Erika Wurth has written novels, short stories, poetry and non-fiction.
Respiratory Illnesses in Colorado and the holiday season
Respiratory viruses are currently ripping through the state. Tribal Radio’s Sarah Flower reports on current hospitalizations and how to gather safely this holiday season.
A Conservative and Liberal get to know each other in a One Small Step conversation
Karen Pontius and Sidny Zink didn't know each other when they met at the KSUT studios last August for a One Small Step conversation
Heinrich introduces two bills to resolve tribal water rights in New Mexico
The U.S. Senate Committee on Indian Affairs held a hearing today [on Wednesday] on a variety of tribal water rights settlement bills, including two that impact our region.
La Plata and Archuleta counties approve dissolving San Juan Basin Public Health
The two counties overseeing San Juan Basin Public Health voted unanimously to dissolve the health department on Tuesday.
New Mexico program helps Indigenous school teachers reach the principal’s office
To have an Indigenous teacher is a rarity in this country – they account for only 1% of all teachers in U.S. public schools.
Local health officials see a rise in respiratory illnesses
High cases of respiratory viruses of all kinds are circulating throughout Colorado.
Join KSUT for our “One Small Step” listening party at the Powerhouse, Wednesday, November 16
Earlier this year, as part of StoryCorps One Small Step, KSUT began asking one simple question: Do you believe we have more in common than what divides us?
Durango School District 9-R Native American Heritage events with Veterans, Authors, and Science
Over a hundred people join the Veteran's Celebration and Native Comedy Show for Native American Heritage Month.
Supreme Court struggles with a case dealing with the rights of Native American Tribes
The U.S. Supreme Court's conservative majority seemed conflicted Wednesday, as the justices heard arguments challenging the Indian Child Welfare Act, known by the acronym "ICWA."
Navajo Nation Presidential election results: Buu Nygren defeats incumbent Jonathan Nez
Buu Nygren has been elected as the 10th President of the Navajo Nation. He was elected alongside Vice President Richelle Montoya. Nygren and Montoya defeated incumbent Jonathan Nez and Vice-Presidential candidate Chad Abeyta.
The Last Operating Uranium Mill in the United States explains operations on Ute Land
The last operating uranium mill in the United States is in White Mesa, Utah. It has been the target of ongoing protests and criticism from environmental activist groups and the Ute Mountain Ute tribe.
Urgent Care reopens at Purgatory Resort
Last month, Centura’s Mercy Hospital closed its urgent care facilities at Purgatory resort due to low numbers in traffic. The hospital is announcing a partnership with Durango Urgent Care to open its doors and have operations up and running again at the resort by mid-December.
Native American Heritage Month: Indigenous voices at Fort Lewis College
Tribal Radio in partnership with KDUR Community Radio at Fort Lewis College is airing news stories from their students.
Celebrating heritage, the Native way
Guess which hand holds the bones? It is a game shared among many tribes. It's called the 'stick game' for the Southern Ute Indian Tribe.
Official Ballot for 2022 General Election
League of Women Voters of La Plata County explains each measure on the ballot and why your vote matters to you.
Ute Mountain Ute peace walk brings awareness to uranium mill’s operations and health impacts
The Ute Mountain Ute tribe in White Mesa, Utah, led a rally and spiritual walk this Saturday to protest a radioactive waste dump and other activities at a nearby uranium mill.
Wastewater treatment samples indicate a rise in Covid
Wastewater treatment samples show Covid numbers are rising in southwest Colorado. Could this be another fall wave? KSUT's Sarah Flower talks with San Juan Basin Public Health Department about this fall.
Village at Wolf Creek development rejected by federal judge
For the second time in 5 years, courts have rejected plans that would have developed real estate that could house up to 8,000 people at 10,000 feet above sea level.
KSUT Fall Fund Drive 2022: Growers & Gardeners Day
We're kicking off our Fall Membership Drive with "Growers and Gardeners' Day", a great day to pledge your support for KSUT.
White Mesa Uranium Mill Spiritual Walk and Protest This Weekend
Activists from the Ute Mountain Ute tribe in White Mesa, Utah is protesting a radioactive waste dump and other activities at a nearby uranium mill.
League of Women and Voters of La Plata County explain ballot amendments and propositions (Part 1)
Mail-in ballots have been sent out to Colorado residents this week.
The League of Women and Voters of La Plata County sat down with Tribal Radio to break down first three of the 11 ballot measures.
5 Things to Know About Colorado’s Psychedelics Ballot Initiative
The good, the bad, and the unknown about the Centennial State’s proposal to decriminalize and regulate magic mushrooms and plant-based psychedelics.
A Navajo seed keeper shares his ancestors’ food with the world
On a rainy day in Shiprock, New Mexico, with slippery clay earth caking our boots, Graham Biyáál takes me on a tour of his four acre corn field where he lives and works.
Incumbent Senator Michael Bennet and challenger Joe O’Dea share their defining issues
The race for U.S. Senator is heating up in advance of midterm elections. Colorado Incumbent Senator Michael Bennet and challenger Joe O’Dea spoke separately to the Durango Herald’s editorial team this week with KSUT News invited to attend.
Durango Teacher Receives National Milken Educator Award
A teacher at Needham Elementary School in Durango was one of 40 teachers across the country that was surprised with the National Milken Educator Award. Tiffany Miera was once a student at Needham and has spent 14 years of her career at the school.
Area residents celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day in Durango
The city showed their lack of awareness of Indigenous People's Day with a tone-deaf
Facebook post. They quickly took it down, but activists say this is exactly why the unofficial
holiday is needed.
Centura Health Closes Urgent Care at Purgatory Resort due to low demand
KSUT reported on Friday that Centura Health is not reopening their urgent care facility at Purgatory Resort. Tribal Radio’s Sarah Flower reports that Cenutra is closing the clinic due to low traffic numbers.
Southern Ute Indian Tribe Conducts Housing Survey
The Southern Ute tribe is conducting a new housing survey in Ignacio.
San Juan Basin Health Update
Hospitalizations of COVID19 are on the rise across Colorado.KSUT’s Sarah Flower talks with San Juan Basin Public Health Department about if this increase is the beginning of a fall wave or if it’s too early to tell.
Sacheen Littlefeather, who gave Marlon Brando’s Oscar rejection speech, dies at 75
Sacheen Littlefeather, the Native American actress and activist who declined Marlon Brando's best actor Oscar in 1973, has died, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced Sunday night. She was 75.
No Clear Path Forward As Purple Cliffs Closes
A temporary camp for the unhoused is closing this weekend and there is no plan for where these individuals will go.
San Juan Generating Plant Closing Friday
September 29, 2022 Your browser does not support the audio element. San Juan Generating Station Closing FridayHost lede: New Mexico’s San Juan Generating Station between Farmington and Shiprock is closing on September 30. The phased shutdown has been in the works...
Indigenous Midwifery Center Aims to Revitalize Birth Practices
For the Center for Indigenous Midwifery, the goal is rebirth.
Tribal breakthrough? Four states, six tribes announce first formal talks on Colorado River negotiating authority
Colorado and three other Upper Colorado River Basin states have, for the first time in history, embarked on a series of formal meetings to find a way to negotiate jointly with some of the largest owners of Colorado River water rights: tribal communities.
U.S. Congress reaches a milestone in Indigenous representation
Rep. Mary Peltola's election to the U.S. House of Representatives made history in several ways.
Bernadette Cuthair Receives 2022 Community Health Leadership Award
The Colorado Health Foundation is recognizing Bernadette Cuthair, a Ute Mountain Ute Tribal member, for her work in community and public health.
KSUT participates in “Advanced Equity in Local News” convening hosted by the Colorado Media Project
"Advancing Equity in Local News" was the subject of a 3-day convening of Colorado Media Project (CMP) grantees in Denver, September 14-16.
Centura Health Layoffs Create Uncertainty for Mercy Regional Medical Center
Centura Health is laying off hundreds of employees throughout their 19 hospitals in Colorado and western Kansas. The company said they’d be reducing their workforce by 1%.
Sacheen Littlefeather has no regrets
It was a quiet protest, delivered as Sacheen Littlefeather lived her life — with dignity, grace, compassion and honesty, the way her ancestors would have wanted
Colorado officials stress caution after Biden claims pandemic is ‘over’
San Juan Basin Public Health Department and Colorado health officials are continuing to stress caution, even as President Biden says, “the pandemic is over”. A local public health official reacts to the mixed messaging.
Southern Ute Indian Tribal Fair celebrates 100 years with tribal members from the all over the country and Canada
Over the past weekend, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe celebrated and welcomed everyone to the 100th annual fair in Ignacio, Colo.
COVID-19 Update for September 14 – September 21
The new omicron COVID-19 booster shot is now accessible throughout the region.
Fremont Indian State Park exists to keep an ancient tribal way of life alive
Along I-70, near Sevier, Utah, sits Clear Creek Canyon. One thousand years ago, it was home to one of the largest communities of Fremont Indians ever discovered.
Purple Cliffs unmanaged campsite closes at the end of month
The unmanage campsite purple cliffs is scheduled to close on September 30.
COVID-19 update: Omicron Boosters Available
With Fall coming and Winter on the horizon, spikes of COVID-19 are anticipated by health officials. A new booster to help offset the anticipated surge is now available in Southwest Colorado.
White Mesa Bear Dance 2022 season comes to an end, Chief is satisfied
The White Mesa community hosted its annual Bear Dance this past weekend. White Mesa is a Ute Mountain Ute community near Blanding, Utah.
Mercy Regional Medical Center CEO leaves hospital for Front Range
Patrick Sharp is leaving Mercy Hospital as it’s Chief Executive Officer.
Lawmaker calls on colleagues to support protections for Indigenous cultural sites
How tribal leaders and members of Congress are advocating for the protection of Indigenous sites was top of mind at the recent National Native Media Conference in Phoenix.
How teens brought a skate park to their Native American reservation
The village of Tewa, Ariz., recently ramped up its skating scene.
Durango-La Plata County Airport Closure
The 10-day closure at Durango La Plata County Airport is on track to start just after the Labor Day weekend on September 7, and run through the 16th.
COVID-19 Updates for August 31 – September 6
A new COVID vaccine booster is expected to be released from the federal government in early September. KSUT’s Sarah Flower talks with San Juan Basin Public Health Department about these vaccines and how they differ from past boosters and how or if they will be funded.
COVID-19 updates for Aug. 23 -Aug. 30, 2022
COVID metrics across Colorado are showing a downturn of cases and hospitalization rates. However, locally, those trends are increasing and both La Plata and Archuleta Counties are at level medium with transmission. KSUT’s Sarah Flower joins San Juan Basin Public Health Department to talk about amending the current public health advisory and the potential for an omicron specific fall booster.
Fellowship boosts Indigenous film producers bringing authentic Native narratives to the big screen
Ashley Browning remembers the 1995 film “The Indian in the Cupboard” being one of the only Indigenous portrayals on the big screen when she was a child.
Uptick in monkeypox cases in Colorado
Colorado is reporting a significant uptick in Monkeypox cases. Most cases have been found in Denver amongst young men.
State awards grant for wildfire mitigation and training in La Plata County
An 8 week wildfire mitigation project in La Plata county will start in September. The county was one of 7 in Colorado that was a recipient of a state-awarded workforce development grant.
Montana, scene of global gathering to save Native languages
Some warn that more than 3,000 Indigenous languages may be lost by the end of this century. To stop this erosion, the United Nations launched the International Decade of Indigenous Languages in 2022.
San Juan Public Health COVID updates
Colorado has released new COVID guidance on returning to school for fall. KSUT’s Sarah Flower joins Liane Jollon, Executive Director of San Juan Basin Public Health Department about these new guidelines and how they relate to the easing of COVID restrictions across the country.
The Academy apologizes to Sacheen Littlefeather for her treatment at the 1973 Oscars
Nearly 50 years after Sacheen Littlefeather stood on the Academy Awards stage on behalf of Marlon Brando to speak about the depiction of Native Americans in Hollywood films, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences apologized to her for the abuse she endured.
Tribal Nations to receive funding for high-speed internet
Tribal nations across the country will be receiving additional funding for the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program put forth by the Department of Commerce.
The Canyonlands Research Center offers summer internships to Native American students interested in conservation
The Canyonlands Research Center in southeastern Utah, is in its second year offering a paid summer internship to Native American students interested in conservation.
‘Reservation Dogs,’ now in Season 2, remains one of the most original shows on TV
We all want to tell our own stories — not have them told by people who don't understand us or take our lives seriously. But that is often the fate that Native Americans have had to endure for countless decades.
Updates from San Juan Basin Public Health on highly transmissible Omicron variant and the latest on the monkeypox
The latest variant of COVID-19 is in Colorado. BA 2.75 is believed to be the most transmissible variant of Omicron yet.
Tribes in the Colorado River basin say they’re ‘in the dark’ as states discuss water conservation
A group of 14 tribes in the Colorado River basin is asking for a greater voice in ongoing negotiations about water conservation.
Diné playwright Blossom Johnson brings her work to Durango PlayFest
In award-winning Diné playwright Blossom Johnson’s play, monster SLAYer, a family awaits the birth of twins as they mourn for a missing daughter and sister.
Experts explain the monkeypox virus and global health emergency
Another virus is making headlines across the globe. The world health organization has declared monkeypox a public health emergency of international concern. KSUT’s Sarah Flower talks with the infection disease department at Mercy regional medical center about monkeypox and how transmissible this virus really is.
Ecological land management and preventing fires with goats
La Plata county is working with local goat farmers to help mitigate noxious weeds in Durango's Bodo Park. KSUT’s Sarah Flower reports.
Updates from San Juan Basin Public Health on the latest data and taking antiviral medication
Coronavirus rebound cases from taking antiviral medication have many questioning why this is happening.
On a stunning Hawaiian mountain, the fight over telescopes is nearing a peaceful end
The peak of Mauna Kea, a shield volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii, is one of the world's most remote places.
Samuel Sandoval, one of the last remaining Navajo Code Talkers, has died at age 98
Samuel Sandoval, one of the last remaining Navajo Code Talkers who transmitted messages in World War II using a code based on their native language, has died.
Hiring: Native Lens Digital Media Producer
Native Lens is looking for a dynamic Digital Media Producer and Host to join our team! Native Lens is a collaborative documentary docuseries presented by KSUT Tribal Radio and Rocky Mountain PBS.
Tribal leaders praise ‘once-in-a-generation’ public land acquisition in New Mexico
In late June, tribal leaders and New Mexican officials celebrated Indigenous peoples’ access to a new swath of public land, a 54,000-acre addition to the Marquez Wildlife Area that was previously private.
Tim Giago’s legacy as champion of press freedom inspires brilliant path to follow
As Tim Giago entered his final hours, the Thunder Beings filled the yet-dark sky above the Black Hills early Sunday morning.
Monsoon season in southwest Colorado starts Wednesday
Monsoon season is right on par with typical weather patterns. As drought remains critical in parts of southwest Colorado, the National Weather Service predicts precipitation in the area throughout the rest of the month and into August.
Ute Games kicks off this week in Towaoc after pandemic hiatus
The Ute Mountain Ute tribe is hosting the 2022 Ute Games this week in Southwest Colorado. The annual youth athletic competition is returning after a two year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The pope’s apology in Canada was historic, but for some Indigenous people, not enough
"I am sorry," the pope said, speaking in Maskwacis, Alberta, at the lands of four Cree nations.
Finding talent at the Native American Basketball Invitational
The popular basketball tournament highlights Native players from across the country and gives college scouts a glimpse of rezball
Portions of Dolores River Canyon could be protected under new legislation if passed
New legislation is in place that would protect the Dolores River as a National Conservation Area
What Power Should States Have On Native American Land?
In late June, the Supreme Court handed down a decision that expands the states' authority over Native land. The conservative court ruled 5-4 in favor of Oklahoma in the case, allowing states to charge non-Indians who commit crimes against Indians on tribal land.
(30-minute Listen)
Fire at Hoover Dam quickly extinguished Tuesday morning
A fire at the Hoover Dam’s Arizona powerhouse was quickly extinguished on Tuesday morning.
Plague detected in a prairie dog in La Plata County area
The plague was found in a prairie dog in the Hesperus/Breen area of La Plata County. The first confirmed case of the year. KSUT’s Sarah Flower has more.
Normalizing COVID-19 during the summer surge
Over half of Coloradans that currently have COVID-19 are likely infected with the subvariant that is taking over this country in this new summer wave of the pandemic.
Intergovernmental working group meets to address violence against Indigenous women
Representatives from Canada, Mexico and the U.S. convened in Washington, D.C., last week as the three countries collaborate to address the high rates of violence against Indigenous women and girls.
A county in the Mountain West becomes the first to offer voting in Shoshone language
Under the federal Voting Rights Act, nearly 100 jurisdictions must provide assistance to speakers of traditional Native languages. One of the latest is Nye County, Nevada.
Navajo Nation again considers legislation to repeal same-sex marriage ban
Legislation to recognize same-sex marriage is back before the Navajo Nation Council.
San Juan Basin Public Health COVID-19 update
The BA.5 variant of omicron is now the country's most dominant strain of COVID-19. KSUT's Sarah Flower talks with Liane Jollon, Executive Director of San Juan Basin Public Health department, about how this strain affects transmission in southwest Colorado.
Meet Saba, a Native American artist-in-residence at the Mancos Common Press
The Mancos Common Press is hosting an artist-in-residence this weekend (July 8-9) with Saba, a muralist, screen printer, and painter. He’s a descendant of both the Dine’ and Walatowa people.
A historic new co-management agreement for Bears Ears National Monument includes area tribes
Five Native American tribes and various federal agencies recently signed a historic co-management agreement for Bears Ears National Monument in southern Utah.
A U.S. uranium mill is near this tribe. A study may reveal if it poses a health risk
A Native American community neighboring the only operating uranium mill in the U.S. is hoping a new study will answer longstanding questions about whether it is affecting their health.
Dogs are sniffing out disease in animals vital to traditions of the Blackfeet tribe
Kenneth Cook used a mallet and a chisel to crack into a pig's skull in the gravel driveway outside his home on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in northwestern Montana.
Supreme Court hands defeat to Native American Tribes in Oklahoma
Three years ago, Native Americans in Oklahoma rejoiced when the Supreme Court ruled that the eastern half of Oklahoma is on tribal land, and that the state could not bring criminal prosecutions for crimes on Indian land without the consent of the Indian tribes.
Arizona offers free college tuition to the state’s Native students
The University of Arizona announced Monday that Native American students no longer would have to pay tuition or fees at its main campus in Tucson.
5 cases of monkeypox in Colorado, what we know about the virus
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is cautioning Coloradoans about the current status of Monkeypox in the state.
Vaccines for children under five-years-old approved by the CDC while high transmission of COVID-19 reported in La Plata County
La Plata County is now reporting high levels of community transmission on COVID-19, and several variants are being detected in wastewater samples. This comes at a time when the CDC and FDA has approved vaccines for children as young as 6 months.
Food brings people together for Juneteenth celebration in Durango
Durangoans and Fort Lewis College participate in Juneteenth celebrations with food, drinks and movies. KSUT’s Sarah Flower has more.
Walking 2,402 miles for Missing and Murdered Relatives and families
It is over a year since Seraphine Warren's 62-year-old aunt Ella Mae Begay went missing from Sweetwater, Ariz. Now, she wants to walk to Washington D.C. to raise money for families.
Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project major portion completed
A major component of the Navajo-Gallup Water Supply Project is completed and will deliver clean drinking water to two tribal nations. KSUT’s Sarah Flower reports.
Emergency Preparedness: Part 2, La Plata County and Southern Ute Indian Tribe enter Stage II Fire Restrictions
La Plata County is experiencing higher than normal temperatures, windy conditions and very little rain. In part 2 KSUT’s Sarah Flower talks with the county’s emergency preparedness team on how they handle and execute emergency information to its residence.
Emergency Preparedness, Part 1
Wildfires across southwest Colorado have led officials to bulk up their emergency preparedness communication in La Plata County. KSUT’s Sarah Flower talks with County leaders about how to best share information with its residents.
Secretary Haaland launches Indian Youth Service Corps
Interior Sec. Deb Haaland is launching an Indian youth services corps with new guidelines.
2022 Primary Ballots are out
Ballots for the 2022 Primary election should arrive this week to voters in Colorado. There are several contentious races in the major parties. KSUT’s Sarah Flower reports.
COVID-19 cases increase in the State, but are low in La Plata and Archuleta counties
Covid cases are surging across the state, while some hospitals see a rapid increase in patients.
Bear Dance Fire grows to 89 acres
A fire currently under investigation started on the Southern Ute Indian Tribal land is 0 percent contained.
UPDATE: Tuesday, June 7, 100 percent contained.
Native tribes celebrate Montana land ownership and bison range restoration
A narrow gravel road takes visitors zig-zagging up a mountain, alongside a creek, and, if they're lucky, they'll see buffalo roaming freely on the terrain.
Durango Healing Fields salutes military personnel for Memorial Day
United States military personnel who are actively serving, honorably served, or lost their lives in the military were honored at Durango Healing Fields for the first time.
Lauren Boebert’s first debate against congressional candidate Don Coram took place on Southern Ute Indian Tribal land
Incumbent U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert went head-to-head with State Sen. Don Coram in the first debate of the primary election at Sky Ute Casino in Ignacio, C.O.
Gov. Polis signs bills at Durango High School and at Fort Lewis College
Gov. Jared Polis was visiting southwest Colorado, yesterday to sign bills into law at Durango High School and Fort Lewis College. The bills are aimed towards education and Native American issues. KSUT’s Sarah Flower has more.
How to better prepare your home for wildfire season, interview Karola Hanks, fire marshal, Part II
With fire season upon us, KSUT's Sarah Flower talks with Karola Hanks, Fire Marshall for Durango Fire and rescue authority about how to better prepare your home and family for wildfire season.
Stage 1 fire restrictions are now in effect, and Fire Marshal explains how to protect your home, Part 1.
Stage 1 fire restrictions are now in effect. As fire danger is on the minds of many, KSUT's Sarah Flower talks with Karola Hanks, Fire Marshall for Durango Fire and Rescue Authority on how to keep your home safe.
New bill aims to boost tribal access to clean water
Two recent moves aim to benefit water access for tribal communities in the Colorado River basin. One, a bill in the U.S. Congress, could increase access to clean water.
Covid-19 Cases Increase Raising Concerns Across the State
Cases of COVID-19 are climbing throughout Colorado, causing some counties to increase their levels of concern. The state reports that they are predicting a significant increase in hospitalizations in the coming weeks.
U.S. report identifies burial sites linked to boarding schools for Native Americans
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — A first-of-its-kind federal study of Native American boarding schools that for over a century sought to assimilate Indigenous children into white society -
The Kaw people are choosing a site for a sacred boulder returned to the tribe
The huge red boulder standing bolt upright in a downtown park doesn't belong here.
Covid-19 News: Increase Cases and Triple Viral loads in Durango Wastewater Surveillance
The wastewater surveillance system for Covid-19 in Durango shows a tripling number of viral load in the community.
High Wind Advisory and Red Flag Warning throughout the region
Weather officials are cautioning residents throughout the region that critical fire weather conditions are in the forecast this week.
Southern Ute Indian Tribe recognizes Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives on National Day of Awareness for MMIP
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives Awareness Day is officially recognized by the Southern Ute Tribal Council on May 5th. On the same day, the United States Department of the Interior announced its collaboration with the Not Invisible Act Commission, a national group addressing the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People’s crisis in Indian Country.
New Mexico filmmaker picked for program aiming to boost Native representation in Hollywood
Netflix and the Indigenous social justice group IllumiNative recently announced their first cohort in a training program for Native film and TV producers.
San Juan Basin Public Health recommends local public health and dissolving a multi-county district
San Juan Basin Public Health Board of Health works to deliver their public health differently from the one jurisdiction in a multi-county region.
University of California will waive tuition and fees for many Native American students
The University of California system will waive tuition and fees beginning in fall 2022 for Native American students who are state residents and members of federally recognized tribes.
Indian Health Services receives millions to eliminate HIV in Indian Country
Indian Health Services is receiving millions of dollars for the first time from the federal government to help eliminate HIV in Indian Country.
Covid News: Mask mandates on public transportation
Mask mandates on public transportation have dropped across the country. KSUT's Sarah Flower talks with Liane Jollon, executive director of the San Juan Basin Public Health Department, about how it could affect cases across America and Colorado.
Covid News: New Covid-19 variants
New variants of COVID-19 are popping up throughout the world. KSUT’s Sarah Flower talks with Liane Jollon, executive Director of the San Juan Basin Public Health Department, about these new variants and when and if there is cause for concern.
Out of the dark, Westside Mobile Park celebrates ownership
One mobile home park experienced what they call “a miracle” regarding affordable housing. KSUT’s Sarah Flower has that story.
Local Covid News: Detecting Covid in wastewater
Detection of COVID-19 is being tracked in waste water throughout Colorado and in some water districts in Southwest Colorado.
Interior Department gives tribes more autonomy over water rules
Water is life out West, and now tribes will have more control over water rules on their lands.
Hózhóní Days Powwow returns after two years due to Covid
For the first time in two years, Fort Lewis College and the Native American Center host their first powwow since the pandemic's beginning.
World Health Organization identifies new Covid variant
The World Health Organization has identified a new Covid-19 variant, and concerns are developing.
Navajo Nation bill would repeal its same-sex marriage ban
The country’s largest tribal nation, the Navajo Nation, is considering legislation to repeal its ban on same-sex marriage.
White House report details barriers for Indigenous voters
The Biden administration released a report Thursday detailing the barriers Indigenous voters face.
Local Covid News: San Juan Basin Public Health
Positive cases of Covid-19 are drastically dropping from the Omicron surge across Colorado. State Health officials say that 9 out 10 Coloradans are immune to Omicron
Colorado bill would shine a light on the crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous people
Colorado could soon join other Mountain West states that are beginning to address the epidemic of missing and murdered Indigenous people.
High demand starts 4Corners K-9 Search and Rescue on the Navajo Nation
4Corners K-9 Search and Rescue is the latest organization helping Native families find missing loved ones.
John Hickenlooper discusses funding for southwest Colorado after the omnibus spending bill passed
Congress approves a $1.5 trillion omnibus spending package for the Fiscal Year 2022 that includes millions of dollars to southwest Colorado.
Local Covid-19 News
Colorado sees some of the lowest Covid-19 numbers since the pandemic's beginning. While public health officials welcome the news, many treat this data cautiously.
‘They just didn’t care’: Families’ grief renewed as Interior reviews deaths at tribal jails
A new report commissioned by the Interior Department provides a window into the fatal mistreatment of inmates in its tribal jails.
Durango Independent Film Festival spotlights Indigenous stories
Native American and Indigenous filmmakers humanize cultural values at the Durango Independent Film Festival.
Coronavirus News: the latest updates
For the first time in almost two years, there is no recommendation for masking in La Plata and Archuleta county. KSUT’s Sarah Flower talks with Liane Jollon, executive director of San Juan Basin Public Health Department, about how they power down the community response to COVID-19 to the ongoing pandemic.
Covid-19 the latest updates
The state of Colorado announced a new chapter in mitigation measures to COVID-19 and lessened restrictions across the state.
KSUT’s Sarah Flower talks with Liane Jollon, executive director of San Juan Basin Public Health, about this new road map and gives an update about a recent ruling on a lawsuit against the health department.
BLM holds public meetings about plans to expand protections around Chaco Canyon
The Bureau of Land Management wants to expand environmental protections around Chaco Canyon in New Mexico after the Biden Administration first announced the plan last year. This week, it held the first public meetings about its proposal.
San Juan Basin Public Health COVID Update
Positive cases of Covid-19 are drastically dropping from the Omicron surge across Colorado. State health officials say that 9 out of 10 people in Colorado are immune to Omicron. KSUT's Sarah Flower talks with Liane Jollon, executive director of San Juan Basin Public Health Department, about the next chapter of this pandemic.
Passenger traffic doubles at Durango airport
The Durango-La Plata County Airport welcomed 397,293 passengers arriving and departing in 2021, a significant 101 percent increase compared to 2020, where traffic declined due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Interior addresses National Congress of American Indians
The Department of the Interior addressed the National Congress of the American Indians and outlined improvements in the Bureau of Indian Affairs long-challenged detention program while addressing advancements in their Missing and Murdered Indigenous People. KSUT’s Sarah Flower has that story.
Covid News: San Juan Basin Public Health updates
COVID-19 cases across the state and southwest Colorado are on a sharp decline. In this weekly COVID-19 update, KSUT’s Sarah Flower talks with San Juan Basin Public Health about new quarantine guidance in schools from the state health officials and whether or not we are ready to take off our masks.
Lawmakers question Interior’s contract to review tribal jail deaths
Federal lawmakers are calling for an inquiry into the Interior Department's handling of a contract that was awarded to a former administrator to review deaths at tribal jails, nearly half of which happened on his watch.
State Health officials stay prepared despite low hospitalizations rates
State Health officials continue to be cautiously optimistic about the decline in the number of COVID-19 cases. For the first time in weeks, the number of individuals hospitalized with the virus is under 1000.
Interior Department hires former top cop to review jail deaths on his watch
Darren Cruzan was teary-eyed when he delivered his retirement speech to family and colleagues at a gathering in Washington, D.C., last May. He was ending a 26-year career in federal law enforcement — more than half with the Interior Department — and was proud of his tenure as an administrator.
San Juan Basin Public Health Update: Covid News
After nearly a month of record high cases, the number of people testing positive for Covid-19 is on the decline from the omicron surge. KSUT’s Sarah Flower talks with San Juan Basin Public Health Department about their cautious optimism and discusses the new variant found in the front range and why they are not concerned just yet.
Children’s Hospital Colorado hires its first Mental Health-in-Chief. What it will mean for rural areas
Children’s Hospital of Colorado has hired its first ever Mental Health-in-Chief. They are the first pediatric hospital in the country to do so. KSUT’s Sarah Flower talks with the new hire about what this position can mean for rural areas.
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