“Joining us today is Manuel Zavala, an innovative educator and entrepreneur committed to empowering the next generation. He’s the founder and CEO of Student Hires, an organization that partners with K–12 schools to provide after-school and career readiness programs led by local college students. With a background in teaching and a passion for bridging the gap between education and real-world experience, Manuel is helping young people unlock their potential and build brighter futures. We’re excited to welcome him to the show!”

ABOUT MANUEL ZAVALA

Manuel Zavala is an educator and entrepreneur dedicated to enhancing student career readiness through experiential learning. He is the founder and CEO of Student Hires, an organization that partners with K–12 schools to provide after-school and expanded learning programs led by local college and university students.

Zavala’s journey began as a high school computer science teacher, where he identified gaps in the education system regarding practical, project-based learning. In 2015, while attending the University of California, Riverside, he founded Student Hires to address this need . Initially, the organization operated as a student-run creative agency, offering web and graphic design services to local businesses and providing university students with income and portfolio-building opportunities. By 2018, Student Hires expanded to offer educational programs aimed at preparing high school students for technology careers and facilitating their transition into entry-level jobs within the community.

Beyond Student Hires, Zavala has founded other education-focused ventures, including Afterschool.org, and maintains an active presence on platforms like YouTube, where he shares insights on student development and entrepreneurship.

Email: manuel@studenthires.com
Phone: 909-496-7557
Website: studenthires.commanuel@studenthires.com
Youtube: www.youtube.com/@studenthires
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/manuel-zavala-5017a98a
Manuel website: manuelzavala.com

CONTACT STUDENT HIRES

“On this week’s edition of Indigenous in the News, we’re honored to welcome a passionate advocate, organizer, and protector of Indigenous rights — Robert Rosa, President of the American Indian Movement Central Florida.

Robert has been on the frontlines of some of Florida’s most urgent struggles involving sacred lands, burial site desecration, and the ongoing failure of institutions to uphold Native sovereignty and federal protections like the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act — known as NAGPRA.

As a leader within AIM, Robert has worked tirelessly to hold contractors, developers, and public officials accountable when sacred Indigenous burial sites are threatened or destroyed. His work isn’t just about resistance — it’s about education, justice, and healing.

Today, he joins us to shed light on the battles unfolding across Florida where Native history is being bulldozed in the name of profit — and to share how community members, tribal nations, and allies can take action to protect the ancestors and the laws that were meant to honor them.

About Robert Rosa

Robert Rosa is the dedicated President of the American Indian Movement (AIM) Central Florida chapter and an active advocate for the protection of Indigenous heritage and sacred sites. Under his leadership, AIM Central Florida has successfully intervened in multiple cases where developers attempted to disturb Native mounds and burial grounds. Notably, in February 2023, Rosa played a key role in persuading Jupiter’s Historical Review Board to deny a permit for excavation at a site containing ancient Indian mounds, resulting in the land’s protection.

A member of the Taino community, Rosa has also worked collaboratively with Miccosukee and Seminole tribal representatives to challenge unauthorized digs across the region, emphasizing respect for ancestral lands and cultural sovereignty seminoletribune.org.

He is known for persistent public advocacy, attending local government meetings, raising community awareness, and helping secure protections at sites with deep historical significance.

Committed to preserving these sacred spaces, Rosa continues to lead grassroots campaigns across Central Florida—challenging developers, mobilizing allies, and ensuring that Indigenous voices are central to decisions about land use and cultural heritage.

Indigenous in the News: "Silent No More: A Song for MMIW, Gary Small and Patty Davis Tribute"

“Joining us today are two incredibly talented and passionate artists using their voices to bring attention to an urgent and heartbreaking issue. Gary Small, a four-time Native American Music Awards recipient of the Northern Cheyenne Tribe, teams up with acclaimed singer-songwriter Patty Davis of the Comanche Nation. Together, they’ve created a powerful new song titled Silent No More, dedicated to raising awareness about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.

For more information or to obtain a broadcast-ready MP3 for Indigenous radio stations and programs, you can contact them at 307-674-4205.

“Every year, thousands of Indigenous women and girls go missing or are murdered across North America. In the U.S., the violence rate against Native women is over ten times the national average in some areas—yet most of these cases receive little attention and often go unsolved. The crisis is real, and it’s ongoing. We urge you to learn more, speak out, and support organizations fighting for justice. Let’s raise our voices for those who can’t. Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women—we will not forget.“

• Indigenous women face murder rates more than 10 times the national average in some U.S. regions.
• In Canada, Indigenous women make up 4% of the population, but over 16% of all female homicide victims.
• Thousands of Indigenous women and girls have gone missing or been murdered over the past few decades—many cases remain unsolved or under-investigated.

• According to a report by the Urban Indian Health Institute, 5,712 cases of missing Indigenous women were reported in 2016—but only 116 were logged in the Department of Justice database.
• Many Indigenous women disappear in urban areas, where jurisdictional confusion between local, state, tribal, and federal authorities hampers investigations.
• Major contributing factors include systemic racism, violence tied to resource extraction zones, human trafficking, and lack of proper law enforcement coordination.

• The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls released a landmark report in 2019, calling the crisis a “Canadian genocide.”
• The inquiry identified over 1,200 confirmed cases, but Indigenous organizations estimate the number is much higher—possibly over 4,000.
• Indigenous women are 12 times more likely to go missing or be murdered than non-Indigenous women.

• Colonial violence, intergenerational trauma, poverty, and gender-based violence are deeply rooted factors.
• Data collection is poor, contributing to lack of accountability and public awareness.
• There’s often jurisdictional conflict between tribal and non-tribal law enforcement, especially in cross-border or off-reservation cases.

• Grassroots movements like MMIWG2S, Native Women’s Association of Canada, and NIWRC have led awareness campaigns, vigils, and advocacy for policy change.
• May 5 is recognized as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women in the U.S., also known as Red Dress Day in Canada.
• 
  

Gary Small: revgsmall@hotmail
Phone: 307-674-5204
Website: coyotebros.net
Reverbnation: https://www.reverbnation.com/garysmallthecoyotebros
Patty Davis: tenbearsdevelopment@gmail.com
Phone: 541-294-1909

Today our guests are Travis Zimmerman, site manager of the Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Joni and Eric Buffalohead lead singer and founder of Bluedog, Minnesota Blues musicians, today were learning about the museum's history and highlights about the upcoming Native American Music and Arts Festival on August 31 in Millacs Minnesota, where tradition, creativity, and community come together in a powerful celebration of Indigenous music and art. Enjoy a powerful day of music, art, and storytelling rooted in Indigenous pride and creativity.

About Travis: Travis Zimmerman is a historian, cultural educator, and storyteller from Minnesota. He’s a proud member of the Crane Clan of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa and serves as the site manager at the Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post, a role he’s held for over 15 years.

He’s passionate about preserving and sharing Ojibwe history and culture. Travis has been featured on the “Native Lights” radio program, where he discussed his journey and love for Native American history. He also hosted the documentary-style series “DeCoded: Native Veterans in Minnesota Who Helped Win World War II” produced by Minnesota Native News.

Beyond his museum work, Travis co-authored a children’s book titled How the Birds Got Their Songs, adapted from a traditional Ojibwe story passed down through his family. He partnered with his cousin, artist Sam Zimmerman, and bilingual educator Marcus Ammesmaki to create an English–Ojibwemowin edition. This effort was motivated by his desire to document family stories before they were lost and to support Ojibwe language preservation.

He’s also active in public speaking—recently giving presentations at libraries across Minnesota, such as the “Don’t Know Much About History” series, where he spoke on Ojibwe culture, Indigenous military contributions, and Code Talker.

About the Musuem:

The Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post, located in Onamia, Minnesota, offers an immersive experience into the history, culture, and contemporary life of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe. Through engaging exhibits, live demonstrations, and community programs, the museum preserves and shares Indigenous traditions and stories. Travis Zimmerman, site manager and cultural educator, plays a key role in guiding visitors through this vibrant center of learning and connection.

Contact:

Travis Zimmerman

Email: travis.zimmerman@mnhs.org travis.zimmerman@mnhs.org

320-232-3847

"This week on Indigenous in the News, we’re sounding the alarm. A hidden provision in the U.S. Senate’s 2025 budget reconciliation bill could lead to the forced sale of millions of acres of public land—land that includes sacred Native sites, hunting grounds, and ancestral homelands. Our guest is Keaton Sunchild, Federal Director of Government and Political Relations for Western Native Voice, and a powerful advocate for tribal sovereignty. He joins us to break down what’s at stake, why this fight matters to all of Indian Country, and how we can act now to protect the land our communities have stewarded for generations."

ABOUT KEATON SUNCHILD

Keaton Sunchild (Chippewa-Cree) is the Federal Director of Government and Political Relations for Western Native Voice. A dedicated advocate for tribal sovereignty and Indigenous rights, Keaton leads federal policy efforts to protect Native lands, expand voting access, and elevate Native voices in Washington, D.C. He holds degrees in sociology and political science from the University of Providence and studied law at the University of Oregon. Keaton is committed to empowering Native communities through civic engagement, legislative reform, and grassroots organizing.

CONTACT

EMAIL KEATON: ksunchild@westernnativevoice.org

PHONE: 202-464-3263

Aug 11th "Carrying the Torch with Liz Lovejoy Brown: Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte’s Legacy Lives On"

Joining us today on Indigenous in the News is Elizabeth Lovejoy Brown, Executive Director of the Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte Center and Division Head of Human Services at Nebraska Indian Community College. A proud member of the Omaha Tribe, Liz brings nearly two decades of experience in Native health, social work, and community leadership. She’s here to share her vision for healing, empowerment, and cultural revitalization.

ABOUT LIZ LOVEJOY BROWN
Elizabeth “Liz” Lovejoy Brown is a distinguished member of the Inkesabe Clan of the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska. She brings a wealth of expertise to her new role as Executive Director. She’s a highly accomplished professional with a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa and 17 years of experience in social work, financial and grant management, and program delivery. Her leadership extends to managing non-profit organizations, backed by extensive knowledge in Tribal Finance and accounting, Contract 648 Funding, 2 CFR 200, and tribal grant management.Liz’s dynamic background uniquely qualifies her for her role as Executive Director. Her expertise in tribal finance and accounting, background in grant management, advocacy for Native American youth, and passion for the betterment of her people demonstrate her commitment to the mission of the Picotte Center. Expressing her dedication, Liz states, “I’ve admired Susan LaFlesche Picotte since childhood. Her passion to help and provide for our people has been a role model for me. I share the same passion and am committed to making a positive impact in our community.” Under Liz’s proficient leadership, The Picotte Center advances toward a future where the historic building stands restored, embodying resilience, cultural preservation, and community vitality.

ABOUT THE PICOTTE CENTER
The Picotte Center is a non-profit organization in Walthill, Nebraska, dedicated to revitalizing the historic Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte Hospital. Poised to begin the final phase of restoration, The Picotte Center aims to create a dynamic hub that blends social and medical services, fosters small businesses, showcases a Native American Umonhon museum, promotes community engagement, and offers crucial regional support.

ABOUT DR. SUSAN LAFLESCHE PICOTTE
Born in a tipi in the remote Nebraska Territory during the waning weeks of the Civil War in 1865, Dr. Susan La Flesche Picotte was the youngest child of Chief Joseph La Flesche (Iron Eye), the last formal chief of the Omaha Tribe and his wife Mary (One Woman). Omaha, meaning “to go against the current,” was the name given because the tribe had gone up river, migrating to the Nebraska Territory. It was a fitting attachment for Susan, who would spend her life going “against the current” and in doing so, become America’s first Native American physician.
Susan loved her people. Growing up on the Omaha reservation she not only learned the customs, language, dances and songs, but also saw the poor conditions her people lived in – and the impact it had on their health. She realized that access to adequate medical care was difficult, if not impossible. As a child, she witnessed a sick, elderly native woman die when the local doctor refused to visit her saying, “it was only an Indian, it did not matter.” This defining moment motivated Susan to become a doctor for all people, Indian and white.
CONTACT
WEBSITE: www.picottecenter.org
EMAIL: director@picottecenter.org
PHONE: 531-254-0625

“Indigenous Star Power: Melody McArthur Lights Up Bear Grease as Sandy

Today, we’re joined by powerhouse performer Melody McArthur of the Bigstone Cree Nation. She’s touring across Turtle Island as 'Sandy' in the smash-hit Indigenous musical Bear Grease. Tune in as we talk music, culture, and reclaiming the stage in the coolest way possible." Read all about Bear Grease at our place on the web at www.indigenousinmusicandarts.org/ln-the-news/bear-grease

ABOUT BEAR GREASE

Bear Grease the Musical makes its Off-Broadway debut after captivating audiences across North America with over 200 performances.

Dubbed the Reservation sensation, this all-Indigenous, laugh-out-loud musical reimagines the iconic Grease through a contemporary Native lens — fusing powwow-step, hip hop, and native humor with vibrant dance, bold storytelling, and traditional languages.

It’s fresh, fearless, and absolutely hilarious — a joyride of culture and comedy that will have audiences dancing in their seats and rolling on the floor!

Melody McArthur, a multi-award-winning singer and actress from the Bigstone Cree Nation in Treaty 8, Alberta, stars as Sandy in Bear Grease, an all-Indigenous musical parody of the classic Grease. This production reimagines the original story with Indigenous humor, culture, and music, offering a fresh and empowering perspective.

McArthur’s portrayal of Sandy has garnered acclaim, showcasing her versatility as a performer. She has expressed deep affection for the role, stating, “I love ‘Sandy’ of Bear Grease very much. She is the Love of my Life at this point lol. It’s been a challenging but beautiful journey for her.”

Bear Grease has achieved significant success, including an Off-Broadway premiere in New York City. McArthur shared her excitement on social media, noting, “21 days til New York City Off-Broadway journey with my Bear Grease fam begins!”

WEBSITE: www.beargreaselive.com

June 10 – September 7, 2025
Theater at St.Luke’s, Manhattan, NY

September 30 – October 5, 2025
Neptune Theatre, Halifax, Nova Scotia

Indigenous in the News

Join us every week from Two Buffalo Studios in Bradenton, Florida, as we bring you the latest updates on issues that matter to us all, from the Shakers to the Makers across Indian Country. Hosted by Larry K. from the Ho-Chunk Nation and his co-host Gary Wilcox from the Powatan Nation.

Interested in sponsorship opportunities? Reach out to me at larry@indigenousinmusic.com or visit www.indigenousinthenews.org for all the details. If you have a story and would like to share it, contact us.

July 21st - Tribute to the late Tom Bee, founder of the `Native rock band XIT (Rock)

Welcome to Indigenous in the News with Larry K and Gary Wilcox. On today's show, we’re honored to bring you one of the last interviews recorded with the late Tom Bee this past summer. It was a privilege to have him on the show and learn about his remarkable journey—from founding the Native band XIT, to initially managing the band before stepping into the role of lead singer. XIT made history as the first Native American band to sign with a major record label, and Tom’s extraordinary career later earned him two Grammy Awards. Tom’s life spanned 82 remarkable years, during which he touched the hearts of many with his kindness, wisdom, and love. A man of many talents and passions, he approached everything with a tireless work ethic and an unwavering dedication to excellence.

Tom was born on November 8, 1941, in Gallup, New Mexico, and who passed away on July 25, 2024, in Albuquerque, was a true legend. It was an honor to have him as a guest on my music show, Indigenous in Music, this past June. I’m grateful to share our interview with all of you.
Some of his numerous achievements include:
1) Winning two Grammy Awards.
2) Writing the song "(We've Got) Blue Skies" recorded by Michael Jackson and the Jackson 5 which appeared on the worldwide hit album "Maybe Tomorrow."
3) Coproducing and writing the song "Joyful Jukebox Music" for the Jackson 5.
4) Singing and writing the backing vocals for the song "Just My Soul Responding" for Smokey Robinson on his first solo album "Smokey."
5) Obtaining a writer, artist, and producer contract with Motown records which led to the internationally acclaimed albums "Plight of the Redman" and Silent Warrior" by Xit.
6) Writing the song "Red Hot," recorded by Taka Boom (sister of Chaka Khan) a top Billboard Disco Dance Chart hit.
7) Writing the song "Don't Be Two Faced," recorded by the top selling rockabilly artist Shakin' Stevens for his highly successful album "the Bop Won't Stop."
8) Working with legendary Producer Gary S. Paxton (Alley Oop by the Hollywood Argyles, Monster Mash by Bobby Boris Pickett, and Cherish by the Association).
9) Receiving the "Eagle Spirit Award" from the America Film Institute in San Francisco.
10) Receiving the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the First Americans in the Arts in Beverly Hills.
11) Receiving the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from Four Directions Entertainment in New York.
12) Being the recipient of the "Will Sampson Award" from the First Americans in the Arts.
13) Winning the "Producer of the Year Award" at the First Annual "Native American Music Awards" (NAMMY's).
14) Receiving of the "Lifetime Achievement Award" from the "Native American Music Awards" (NAMMY's).
15) Having July 27, 2002 being proclaimed "Tom Bee Day" by Mayor Martin Chavez in recognition of Tom's accomplishments within the music industry as a recording artist, songwriter, record producer and multi-award winner.
16) Persuading NARAS to recognize the musical contributions of Native Americans by establishing a Native America category at the Grammy Awards.
17) Being CEO and founder of SOAR (Sound of America Records).

As we say goodbye to Tom, we take comfort in the memories he shared with us. He will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his spirit will continue to inspire us.