By Stacy Thacker, University of Montana

A recent study shows that Native Americans in New Mexico are smoking more than any other race in the state. Being a New Mexican and Native American I found this shocking!

According to the Farmington (N.M) Daily Times, nearly a quarter of people who live on tribal land in New Mexico smoke. This rise in smoking has occurred only recently, in previous years the rate of Native smokers was lower than other ethnic groups.

By Santee Ross, University of Montana

Kris Jenner is the notorious matriarch of the Kardashian clan who are plastered everywhere in the media. Jenner, though, has more recently been in the news for reasons other than her reality show. Earlier this month, she made a comment about one of her daughter’s failed suitors, calling any attempt to reclaim an engagement ring that of an Indian giver.

In her own words: “I hate an Indian giver, don’t you? It’s a gift, keep your gift.”

By Santee Ross, University of Montana

Cigs, smokes, cancer sticks or just plain cigarettes but whatever name you call them, November 17 marks this year’s Great American Smokeout.

The Montana Tobacco Use Prevention Program has teamed up with the American Cancer Society, and several programs and events including National American Indian Heritage Month, to promote the Great American Smoke-out according to the November 10 edition of Glacier Reporter.

By Santee Ross, University of Montana

Guest speakers have never really held my attention—no matter the topic. They could be talking about how to achieve a Jessica Alba body while eating a slice of pizza a day and I still wouldn’t be interested enough to pay attention.

By Lee Longhorn

Today, Nov. 16, 2011, the state of Oklahoma celebrates its 104 birthday.

For those that don’t know much about the history of this state, allow me to enlighten you. A long time ago, during removal, many tribes across the country were removed to what was then called “Indian Territory.” Today, there are over 30 tribes that have their headquarters located in the state.

By Santee Ross, University of Montana

The Star Spangled Banner can be heard at football games, baseball games and rodeos. Although at these events it’s usually heard in English.

One inspiring young woman has taken the Star Spangled Banner and translated it into the Lakota language. Lorna Hermanyhorses took on the project with the help of her language teacher in order to translate the beautiful song.

By Santee Ross, University of Montana

The 11th day of the 11th month at the 11th hour sounds like its right out of an action movie but in fact it’s the day our nation remembers the military veterans who honorably served this country.

I must admit I used to view this day as a day off from school and work—a reflection of my maturity. That changed when I developed friendships with those who currently serve or have served.

By Stacy Thacker, University of Montana

With Native American month kicking off I thought I’d take a look at Natives accomplishing cool things and acknowledge their success as well as hopefully unearth some over looked Natives in the process because everyday somebody is doing something cool.

By Santee Ross, University of Montana

Treating child abuse in Indian Country takes a step forward with a $3.2 million grant given to the National Native Children’s Trauma Center at the University of Montana according an article in the October 27th edition of the Char-Koosta News.

The grant will be used to research for problems of child abuse and neglect in Indian Country.