Me̱ꞌpha̱a̱: An Indigenous Mexican community in Lawrence is saving their language from extinction
The Lawrence Times: With up to 95% of the world’s languages expected to go extinct by the end of this century, generations’ worth of Indigenous traditions and history may be left a mystery. That’s why a coalition of KU professors have teamed up with a local community of immigrants from Guerrero, Mexico, to reclaim their Me̱ꞌpha̱a̱ language.
New Lawrence MMIW chapter kicks off week of action to raise awareness about violence against Indigenous women
The Lawrence Times: With activities ranging from a free self-defense class to a social media campaign, Native organizers are drawing attention to Missing, Murdered and Indigenous Women. This is one of the most pressing issues facing the Native population, as Native women are murdered at a rate 10x higher than the national average.
Indigenous Community Center launches Native youth skate team in Lawrence
The Lawrence Times: The ICC is helping local Native youth build confidence and healthy habits through its new skate team. Follow me around their first meet at the Edgewood DIY Skate Park.
Seeding sovereignty: How growing hemp is empowering Native tribes & climate action
Sweet Jane: Native American Hemp is a Native-owned nonprofit working with tribes nationwide to grow and process organic hemp. These initiatives are creating jobs and flowing capital into underserved communities while uplifting cultural preservation.
Farm-to-table for free: The Indigenous local farmer and activist making food a public work
The Lawrence Times: The government’s traditional approach to hunger has been to fund the consumption — not the production — of food. Pantaleon Florez, a farmer and food justice activist in Lawrence, is planting the seeds for a new approach. It’s one that would support BIPOC farmers and promote access to healthy foods for people in need.
29th Haskell Art Market represents dozens of tribal creators in cross-cultural event
University Daily Kansan: At this year’s Haskell Indian Art Market, the Lawrence community got a taste of authentic Native-American artwork … and Indian tacos. The free, outdoor event featured the crafts of over 140 Native American artists from all over the country, representing dozens of tribes through beadwork, pottery, and more.
Indigenous Community Center launches new food sovereignty farm
The Lawrence Times: The ICC has reserved an acre of farmland in northeast Lawrence, where a crew of volunteers will plant native crops including vegetables and herbal medicines to promote Indigenous land stewardship.
Intercultural conversations: A program empowering youth with community and connection
Bioneers: This annual educational exchange pairs 20 Native youth and 20 non-Native youth from across the country to address critical issues facing Indigenous and all peoples, providing a platform for discussion and in-person connection.