Ep 4. Life on the Rez

In this episode of Our America with Lisa Ling, titled "Life on the Rez," Ling explores life on a Native reservation in Wyoming and the challenges that face the people who live there.

Ling begins her journey at the Wind River Reservation, home to both the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes. She meets with tribal leaders and community members to gain an understanding of the challenges that they face. Ling notes that the reservation is located in a remote, rural part of the state where poverty and unemployment are high. She hears stories of addiction, domestic violence, and suicide, and learns that these issues disproportionately affect Native populations.

Despite these challenges, Ling discovers moments of hope and resilience in the community. She visits the Fort Washakie School, where Native students are learning traditional cultural practices alongside their academic studies. The school's leader, Al Addison, explains that incorporating cultural education into the curriculum helps students develop a sense of identity and pride in their heritage.

Ling also spends time with a group of young Native women who are using social media to raise awareness about issues facing their community. The women explain that they have started a grassroots movement to combat the stigma of addiction and mental illness on the reservation. They hope that by sharing their stories and experiences, they can help others who may be struggling.

Throughout the episode, Ling highlights the importance of preserving Native culture and identity. She attends a powwow, where she witnesses the power of dance and music to bring people together. She also speaks with tribe members who are working to maintain and revive traditional crafts, like beadwork and pottery.

Overall, "Life on the Rez" offers a nuanced and empathetic perspective on the challenges facing Native communities in the United States. Through interviews with community members and thoughtful commentary, Ling sheds light on the resilience and strength of the people who call Wind River home.