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by 5 Plain Questions
5 Plain Questions is a podcast that proposes 5 general questions to Native American and Indigenous artists, creators, musicians, writers, movers and shakers, and culture bearers.
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- 5 days ago4 min
Season 7 Update
I will resume the podcast next week and release new episodes weekly for the remainder of the season. I had paused production while I established the Indigenous Art House and set up the Sovereign Studio gallery in downtown Fargo. We also launched the Northern Plains Indigenous Film Festival, which required substantial effort and contributed to the hiatus. I have recorded new interviews and assembled a strong roster of guests, though a technical failure cost us one recording. I ask that you support Native and Indigenous artists by visiting the gallery or contributing online. I am ready to continue the series and I will see you next time.Companies mentioned in this episode:Indigenous Art HouseSovereign StudioSolo's EateryNorthern Plains Indigenous Film FestivalFargo TheaterCenter for Native Futures
- Apr 8, 202628 min
Holly Doll
Holly Doll, a distinguished artist and citizen of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, embodies the intersection of cultural heritage and contemporary artistic expression. Specializing in Lakota beadwork and quillwork, Holly's artistic journey commenced at the tender age of two under the tutelage of her mother, instilling in her a deep respect for cultural values that inform her work today. As the Program Director for Ignite Rural and a Program Manager at Arts Midwest, she engages in pivotal efforts to support artists and communities, particularly through collaboration with the Waterers, a collective dedicated to disrupting conventional philanthropy. In this episode, we delve into Holly's multifaceted career, exploring her influences, the role of grief in shaping her path, and the importance of self-care amidst community engagement. We invite you to join us as we uncover the profound insights and experiences that Holly shares, illuminating the vibrant connection between art, culture, and community support.Takeaways:Holly Doll's artistic journey began at a remarkably young age, influenced profoundly by her mother, who instilled in her a deep appreciation for Lakota beadwork and quillwork.As a citizen of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, Holly Doll embodies the intersection of traditional artistry and contemporary expression, enriching her community through cultural work.Her professional endeavors span over a decade in arts and culture nonprofits, showcasing her commitment to fostering local power and supporting artists within her community.Holly's experiences illustrate the importance of community connections; she emphasizes the collective nature of grief and healing within Indigenous cultures.Through her work with the Waterers, Holly engages in radical philanthropy, challenging conventional approaches to support and empowering marginalized voices.Holly encourages the younger generation to embrace their fears, to follow their passions, and to prioritize self-care as they navigate their unique journeys.
- Apr 1, 202628 min
Aiko Little
In this engaging conversation, Aiko Little shares their journey as a writer and actor, discussing their influences, career development, and the importance of creating opportunities for themself and others. They emphasizes the significance of pursuing education and passion, while also encouraging young creatives to embrace their unique paths. Aiko reflects on their experiences in the foster care system and how they shaped their perspective on success and storytelling. The discussion concludes with Aiko's advice for the next generation and their aspirations for the future.Takeaways:Aiko Little emphasizes the importance of pursuing education and passion as foundational elements for personal and professional growth.Their journey through the foster care system profoundly shaped their understanding of success and the nature of storytelling.In thier role within the Writers Guild, they advocates for amplifying indigenous voices in the creative industry, striving for inclusivity and representation.Aiko encourages young creatives to embrace their unique paths and pursue opportunities that may initially seem out of reach.They reflect on how their influences, including matriarchs and comedic figures, have shaped their artistic voice and perspective.Aiko aspires to create formalized training opportunities for indigenous youth, highlighting the necessity of mentorship and support.Links referenced in this episode:elevenwarriorarts.comCompanies mentioned in this episode:Writers Guild of AmericaAmazonWong Fu ProductionsStarkid ProductionsAmerican Conservatory TheaterTia LeClaire
- Mar 25, 20261h 23m
5 More Questions for Penny Kagigebi
Penny Kagigebi, a queer 2-Spirit artist of White Earth Ojibwe heritage, has dedicated her life to the intersection of queer activism and cultural healing. In our conversation, we explore her commitment to preserving the endangered art forms of porcupine quillwork and birchbark basketry, while also addressing the critical question of what it means to keep these traditions alive in contemporary society. Since her previous appearance on our podcast, Penny has been remarkably active, receiving numerous accolades and fellowships that underscore her impactful work in the community. We explore her recent exhibition, "Queering Indigeneity," which not only showcases her artistry but also serves as a platform for intergenerational knowledge transfer among Indigenous artists. Join us as we reflect on Penny's journey and the vital role that art plays in cultural reclamation and community healing. Takeaways:Penny Kagigebi's artistic journey embodies the intersection of queer activism and cultural healing through endangered Indigenous art forms.The exhibition 'Queering Indigeneity' serves as a platform for two spirit artists to reclaim cultural narratives and foster community connections.Penny emphasizes the importance of mentorship and intergenerational knowledge transfer among Indigenous artists to ensure the survival of cultural practices.Through her artwork, Penny aims to facilitate healing and remembrance within the community by integrating significant cultural teachings and values.The collaborative nature of the exhibition highlights the transformative power of art in creating spaces of acceptance and belonging for two spirit individuals.Penny's commitment to community engagement reflects a desire to empower Indigenous youth and nurture the next generation of artists in their cultural practices.Companies mentioned in this episode:Region 2 Arts CouncilAnishinaabe Arts InitiativeLake Regions Art CouncilMinnesota State Arts BoardFirst People's FundsCultural CapitalEmerging Curators InstituteManoomin Arts InitiativeMinnesota AIDS ProjectIndigenous People's Task ForceArt of the RuralTextile Center
- Mar 18, 20261h 10m
Suzan Shown Harjo Part 2
Suzan Shown Harjo, a distinguished advocate for Native American rights, has dedicated over six decades to the protection and advancement of Indigenous interests. As the president of The Morning Star Institute and a former executive director of prominent organizations, she has been instrumental in the creation of pivotal legislation, including the American Indian Religious Freedom Act and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. Our discourse with Harjo elucidates her remarkable endeavors, including the campaigns that successfully led to the elimination of derogatory Native mascots and the reclamation of ancestral lands. We explore her insights on the importance of education and cultural preservation, as well as her commitment to fostering unity within Indigenous communities. Join us as we explore the profound impact of Harjo's work and her vision for the future of Native American rights. In this profound exchange with Suzan Shown Harjo, we engage in a comprehensive exploration of her lifetime of advocacy for Native American rights. Harjo, a trailblazer in the fight for Indigenous justice, recounts her extensive involvement in critical legislative initiatives and her commitment to preserving Native culture and heritage. The discussion traverses her experiences with the anti-Vietnam War movement, her tenure in various influential roles, and her insights on the significance of education in shaping future leaders. With a focus on the importance of cultural identity and the reclamation of Indigenous narratives, Harjo articulates her vision for a more equitable future, where the voices of Native peoples are not only heard but celebrated. This episode serves as an essential reminder of the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities and the ongoing fight for justice and recognition.Takeaways:Suzan Shown Harjo's advocacy for Native American rights spans over six decades, marking her as a pivotal figure in this movement.As the president of The Morning Star Institute, Harjo has played a crucial role in enacting significant legislation that protects Indigenous rights and cultures.Her leadership in campaigns against derogatory Native mascots has resulted in the successful removal of offensive names from American sports.Harjo's interdisciplinary contributions as a poet, curator, and journalist have enriched the cultural landscape of Native American narratives throughout her career.Links referenced in this episode:elevenwarriorarts.comCompanies mentioned in this episode:Morningstar InstituteNational Congress of the American IndiansNative American Rights FundUniversity of OklahomaDartmouthSyracuse UniversitySt. John's UniversityUniversity of MinnesotaWBAIPacificaCBSWalter CronkitePhilip GlassAnnie RevereLillian HellmanYip HarburgRing Lardner Jr.Medicine Lodge Creek
- Mar 11, 20261h 22m
Suzan Shown Harjo Part 1
Suzan Shown Harjo, a prominent advocate for Native American rights, has dedicated over six decades to championing the causes of Indigenous peoples. As the president of The Morning Star Institute and a former executive director of significant organizations, she has been instrumental in the passage of landmark legislation such as the American Indian Religious Freedom Act and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act. Her relentless efforts have not only led to the return of over one million acres of Indigenous land but have also sparked movements to eliminate derogatory Native mascots from American sports. In this insightful conversation, we explore Harjo's profound impact on Native rights, her personal journey, and her unwavering commitment to cultural preservation and advocacy. Join us as we explore her invaluable contributions to the Indigenous community and the ongoing struggle for justice and recognition. Suzan Shown Harjo, a Cheyenne citizen and an illustrious advocate for Native American rights, has dedicated over sixty years to the tireless pursuit of justice and equity for Indigenous peoples. As the founder and president of The Morning Star Institute, she has been instrumental in the establishment of landmark legislation that has fundamentally reshaped the landscape of Native rights in the United States. Her involvement in the creation of the American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA) of 1978 and its amendments, as well as the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990, underscores her commitment to the protection of Indigenous cultural and spiritual practices. Throughout her career, Harjo has championed the repatriation of ancestral lands and cultural artifacts, successfully advocating for the return of over one million acres to Native peoples. Her relentless efforts have not only led to the elimination of derogatory Native mascots in sports but have also included a profound commitment to the re-Indigenization of place names across the nation. Harjo's recognition as a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014 further solidifies her status as a leading voice for Indigenous justice, reflecting the deep respect and admiration she has garnered throughout her extensive career. In this engaging conversation, Harjo reflects on her upbringing in Cheyenne and Muscogee lands, where her early experiences shaped her worldview. Raised amid rich cultural traditions and a strong sense of community, she discusses the influence of her grandparents and other familial figures who instilled in her the values of resilience, respect, and kinship. Harjo's narrative weaves through her educational journey, highlighting her pivotal experiences in various locations, including her time in Italy, which broadened her perspective on cultural ties and shared human values. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of Indigenous peoples globally, drawing parallels between their struggles and the experiences of other marginalized communities. This dialogue not only illuminates Harjo's personal journey but also serves as a testament to the collective resilience of Indigenous peoples and the ongoing fight for recognition and rights. As the conversation unfolds, Harjo shares insights into her formative influences, including significant mentors and experiences that have guided her throughout her life. Her reflections on mentorship illuminate the reciprocal nature of learning, where both the mentor and mentee engage in a dynamic exchange of knowledge and wisdom. Harjo's journey is punctuated by her encounters with notable figures in the arts and civil rights movements, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and community in effecting meaningful change. She articulates the profound impact of collective action in the pursuit of justice, laying the groundwork for future generations of advocates. Harjo's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural heritage, the necessity for advocacy, and the indomitable spirit of Indigenous peoples as they continue to navigate the complexities of identity, rights, and sovereignty.Takeaways:Suzan Shown Harjo has dedicated over sixty years to advocating for Native American rights.She was instrumental in the passage of significant legislation, including the American Indian Religious Freedom Act.Harjo's efforts led to the return of over one million acres of Indigenous lands and the elimination of offensive sports mascots.As President of The Morning Star Institute, she continues to be a leading voice for Indigenous culture and legal rights.<span class="ql-ui" cont
- Dec 31, 20253 min
Thank you for an incredible Season 6!
As season 6 draws to a close host Joe Williams thanks you and his guests for making it a completely unforgettable season. And a deep thank you to Art of the Rural, The Waterers, and Common Council for their invaluable support in making season 6 possible. Please checkout their websites and see how you can support them!And be sure to stay tuned in February 2026 for season 7!Make sure to subscribe and checkout elevenwarriorarts.com to find your exclusive 5 Plain Questions podcast merchandise.
- Dec 10, 202538 min
Frederick Edwards Jr.
This episode features the esteemed Frederick Edwards Jr., a Creative Director and teaching artist whose transformative contributions to community empowerment are exemplified through initiatives such as Umoja and Fred's Dissonance. Fred articulates his unwavering commitment to fostering narrative justice while redirecting youth towards meaningful careers, thereby addressing societal gaps in the F-M area. Through his profound personal journey, he not only inspires resilience but also emphasizes the importance of connection and cultural awareness in educational paradigms. Our dialogue delves into the significance of youth engagement in community narratives and the dynamic interplay of personal and communal growth. Join us as we explore Fred's insights and experiences, which serve as a testament to the power of creativity and leadership in shaping a more equitable future.Takeaways: Fred Edwards exemplifies unwavering commitment to narrative justice and community empowerment through innovative initiatives. Umoja serves as a transformative leadership program, redirecting youth towards meaningful careers and cultural awareness. Fred's Dissonance, a multi-generational initiative, reshapes educational paradigms with culturally relevant curricula and practices. Fred's compelling spoken word performances resonate across diverse audiences, showcasing his life journey and ability to inspire change. The youth that Fred works with serve as a mirror, challenging him to confront his own struggles and inspire resilience. Fred's personal story, marked by resilience and creativity, underpins his dedication to fostering positive change in his community. Links referenced in this episode:elevenwarriorarts.comwww.waterers.orgumojaincorporated.comemojia inc. on InstagramCompanies mentioned in this episode: Umoja Inc. Food Network Waterers Art of the Rural Watch Fred on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives with Guy Fieri!https://youtu.be/pYqsP4X4pgM?si=3_4g5UTvNks0fgAQ
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About 5 Plain Questions
5 Plain Questions is a podcast that proposes 5 general questions to Native American and Indigenous artists, creators, musicians, writers, movers and shakers, and culture bearers.
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