WFAE's Charlotte Talks with Mike Collins Explores Indigenous Veterans Day Perspectives
WFAE's 'Charlotte Talks with Mike Collins' program recently featured a discussion titled 'Veterans Day through an Indigenous lens.' The episode addressed the historical contributions of Indigenous people to the U.S. armed forces, noting that their efforts have often been minimized and their cultural traditions disrespected. The discussion highlighted that as of 2022, over 160,000 Indigenous veterans serve across the country, yet they face significant challenges upon returning home, including social barriers, lower incomes, and higher unemployment rates. The program also mentioned that the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians is breaking ground on North Carolina’s first tribal veterans cemetery, which would be the 15th such cemetery in the U.S., compared to nearly 160 recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Guests included Nakia Arrington, Esq., a retired Marine Corps officer and enrolled citizen of the Lumbee Tribe; Ashley Lomboy, an Army veteran and Waccamaw Siouan; and John Hall, a professor of U.S...
