The Heat discusses Native American rights

The Heat

About 4.5 million people in the United States identify themselves as Native Americans. Many say they face discrimination in the form of widespread racism and prejudice.

U.S. Census statistics showed approximately one-in-four Native Americans are living in poverty. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Native American teens.

Native American activists said they face widespread racial discrimination.

For some time now, Native Americans have been demanding the name of the Washington football team be changed. They said the team’s name, “Redskins,” is offensive to their community. But the team owner refused to change the name.

For an in-depth discussion about Native American rights, CCTV’s The Heat spoke with:

  • Jesse Ventura, former governor of Minnesota (1999-2003), served as Navy Seal during Vietnam War.
  • Simon Moya-Smith, Native American journalist and activist, runs the blog “I Am Not A Mascot.”

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