The Transportation Security Administration is requiring cultural sensitivity training for agents at selected airports. That comes after the TSA settled a lawsuit with the Native American Church over agents mishandling sacred items. The lawsuit articulates the persistent problem of non-Native people undermining Native culture and belief by reaching out to touch Native regalia, eagle feathers, hair or sacred items without permission. In this case the traveler asked the agent to avoid desecrating the items. We’ll hear from people about how they protect sacred and sensitive items.

Guests:

Sandor Iron Rope (Lakota from the Pine Ridge agency) – chairperson for the NAC of South Dakota and former chairperson for the NAC of North American

Forrest Tahdooahnippah (Comanche Nation of Oklahoma) – lawyer with , lead council for the TSA case

Lawrence Baker (Mandan, Hidatsa, Rincon Band of Luiseño Indians) – emcee for the Denver March Powwow

Robert “Tree” Cody (Maricopa and Dakota) – award-winning Native American flutist, actor and powwow dancer

Break Music: Encouragement Song (song) (artist)Wahancanka [Remember Me Grandfather] (album)