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Check FAQAbout Debra
Debra Krol is a Native American journalist based in Phoenix, United States of America. Specialties: Native American issues, including science and environmental issues, economic development, business, Native American art; travel/tourism [both Native and mainstream]; and photojournalism. Indigenous storyteller Debra Utacia Krol is an award-winning journalist with an emphasis on Native issues, environmental and science issues, and travel who's fond of averring that "My beat is Indians." She is an enrolled member of the Xolon (also known as Jolon) Salinan Tribe from the Central California coastal ranges.
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Portfolio
Quechan Tribe blocks a third attempt to mine gold on sacred lands
The Fort Yuma Quechan Tribe successfully blocked a third gold mining project on their sacred lands in the Cargo Muchacho Mountains, California. The Imperial County Board of Supervisors voted against the Oro Cruz exploratory gold mining project proposed by Southern Empire Resources. The area, rich in cultural and environmental significance, faced threats from mining activities. The tribe, supported by environmentalists, raised concerns about cultural damage and water sources. The tribe is also advocating for the creation of a new national monument to protect culturally important lands along the Colorado River.
'Incredible place to be': First Indigenous woman in space hopes to inspire young explorers
Nicole Aunapu Mann, the first Indigenous woman in space, shared her inspiring journey from childhood dreams of military service to commanding a mission to the International Space Station. Speaking at Estrella Community College, Mann emphasized the importance of education, perseverance, and support systems. Her career highlights include serving as a Marine, test pilot, and NASA astronaut, culminating in her role as commander of SpaceX's Crew-5 mission. Mann's experiences in space, including scientific experiments and overcoming challenges, have given her a unique perspective on Earth's beauty and fragility. She continues to inspire youth, particularly in underrepresented communities, to pursue careers in space and STEM fields.
Tribes seek equal status in Colorado River talks, compensation for any forced cuts
Tribes with lands and water rights in the Colorado River Basin are demanding equal status in the development of new river management guidelines and protection of their senior water rights against proposed cuts. Leaders from 20 tribes, including eight in Arizona, sent a letter to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation outlining their expectations for the new guidelines effective after December 31, 2026. The Colorado River Indian Tribes and the Gila River Indian Community, holding the largest water allocations in Arizona, did not sign the letter. Tribes are advocating for a greater role in creating new management protocols, with some progress seen in their representation in the Arizona Governor's Water Policy Council. The tribal leaders' letter emphasizes the need to uphold tribal water rights, provide flexibility in water usage, and ensure formalized tribal participation in policy development. The Gila River Indian Community has expressed readiness to oppose plans that do not align with their principles and are seeking alternative water sources or compensation for any cuts.
Cocopah Tribe will restore areas along the Colorado River to address climate change
The Cocopah Tribe, along with two other Arizona tribal communities, is undertaking riparian restoration initiatives funded by grants from the U.S. Department of the Interior and private funders. The Cocopah Tribe received $5 million from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and additional funding from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Bonneville Environmental Foundation to remove invasive species and replant native trees along the Colorado River. The projects aim to restore habitat for native wildlife and involve the creation of a youth corps. The Bureau of Indian Affairs awarded $1.45 million to the Cocopah, Pascua Yaqui, and White Mountain Apache tribes for various climate resilience projects. The Pascua Yaqui Tribe and White Mountain Apache Tribe received grants for a climate adaption plan and watershed protection project, respectively. The funding is part of efforts to enable tribes to address climate change with Indigenous knowledge and protect their homelands.
Uranium mining starts near the Grand Canyon, despite protests by tribes, environmentalists
A uranium mine near the Grand Canyon has commenced operations despite opposition from tribes and environmentalists. Energy Fuels Inc. began mining at the Pinyon Plain Mine, citing higher uranium prices and government support for nuclear power. The Havasupai Tribe and environmental groups fear groundwater contamination and cultural damage. Legal and regulatory frameworks, including a 2012 mining ban and a 2023 national monument designation, have not halted the mine. The Biden administration prioritizes nuclear power for a net-zero energy grid, while opponents remain skeptical of the mine's safety assurances.
One-of-a-kind shop for Native artists closing after 51 years in Phoenix. Here's what's next
Drumbeat Indian Arts, a long-standing Phoenix shop catering to Native American artists and cultural needs, is closing after 51 years due to declining sales, rising prices, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Owner Bob Nuss, who has been a significant figure in the community, decided to retire and close the store. The shop has been a vital resource for beaders and regalia makers, offering a wide range of supplies. Reva Stewart, the store manager, plans to continue serving the community by opening her own shop, Shush Diné Native Shop, maintaining the tradition of providing essential supplies and fostering community connections.
One-of-a-kind shop for Native artists closing after 51 years in Phoenix. Here's what's next
Drumbeat Indian Arts, a Phoenix-based store providing supplies for Native American art and regalia, is closing after 51 years due to declining sales, rising prices, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The store, which started as part of Canyon Records, became a community hub for Native people. Owner Bob Nuss, who is retiring, expanded the store's offerings over the years and maintained a close relationship with the community. Reva Stewart, the store manager, is opening her own shop, Shush Diné Native Shop, to continue serving the community's needs. The closure of Drumbeat will be marked by a final sale, with remaining inventory donated to Native nonprofits.
Salmon won't return to the Klamath River overnight, but tribes are ready for restoration work
The removal of the last of four hydroelectric dams on the Klamath River in 2024 marks a significant step towards restoring the river's natural flow and fish spawning grounds, a process expected to take years. Tribes such as the Yurok, Karuk, Shasta, and Klamath, along with environmentalists, have long advocated for this change to revive the river's ecology and their cultural heritage. The project, involving various stakeholders, aims to address the extensive ecological damage caused by the dams, wildfires, and water diversions. Despite the challenges, the tribes remain committed to restoring the river and its fish populations, which are crucial for their subsistence and cultural practices. The effort also includes broader ecological restoration, such as wetland rehabilitation, to improve water quality and support fish habitats. The initiative is seen as a vital step towards ecological and cultural recovery, with ongoing community and governmental collaboration essential for its success.
"Uncompromising" Navajo activist Klee Benally dies at age 48
Klee Benally, a prominent Navajo activist and artist, passed away at 48. Known for his environmental and social activism, Benally was a founder of the Indigenous punk rock group Blackfire and later dedicated himself to advocacy, founding Indigenous Action. He was deeply involved in efforts to protect Native sacred lands and support Indigenous rights. Benally's work and legacy were celebrated by many, including environmentalists and fellow activists. He is survived by his family, and his contributions continue to inspire ongoing efforts in environmental justice and Indigenous rights.
"Uncompromising" Navajo activist Klee Benally dies at age 48
Klee Benally, a prominent Navajo activist and artist, passed away at 48. Known for his environmental and social activism, Benally was a founder of the Indigenous punk rock group Blackfire and later dedicated himself to full-time advocacy. He established Indigenous Action and collaborated with various environmental justice groups. Benally's efforts included fighting against the use of treated effluent on sacred lands and advocating for the closure of a uranium mine near the Havasupai Tribe's sacred sites. He was widely praised for his unwavering commitment to Indigenous rights and environmental protection. Benally is survived by his family, and his legacy continues to inspire many in the fight for justice and the preservation of sacred spaces.
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