Research avenues for amplifying Indigenous radio

Area of Science:

• Media Studies
• Indigenous Studies
• Sociology

Background:

• Indigenous radio is produced, managed, and/or owned by tribal communities in the US.
• Diverse terminology (Native American, Indian, tribal radio) reflects the variety of tribal cultures, languages, and practices.
• Previous research has not holistically investigated Indigenous radio's community-building role.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the ongoing importance of Indigenous radio for tribal communities in the US.
• To explore how Indigenous radio production and content contribute to community-building and decolonization.
• To analyze the adaptation of Indigenous radio practices during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main Methods:

• A literature review of Indigenous theoretical approaches.
• An online interactive map of tribal radio stations.
• In-depth case studies of selected tribal radio stations.
• Analysis of radio content and production practices before and during the pandemic.

Main Results:

• Indigenous radio utilizes place-based values and "grounded normativity" for community building.
• Radio production and content serve as everyday acts of Indigenous resurgence and decolonization.
• The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the acute value of tribal radio's community-building work.

Conclusions:

• Indigenous radio is a critical tool for maintaining cultural identity and fostering community resilience.
• The pandemic highlighted the adaptability and essential nature of Indigenous radio in times of crisis.
• Further research into Indigenous radio's role in decolonization and resurgence is warranted.