Learning Iñupiaq, One Word — and One Laugh — at a Time
Our listeners have become slightly more fluent in the Alaska Native language of Iñupiaq through a new series of fun, conversation-focused radio spots.
In the News: From Fire to Ice
Thanks to you, our listeners — and readers of KNOM’s online news — have received a wide slate of fascinating (and, at times, very urgent) news stories this autumn, the work of our intrepid news team (Matthew, Francesca, and Jenn). Here are just a few examples (all available online): One of the worst residential fires […]
“Naliġaaniktuŋa!”
With Alaska’s primary in August, city elections throughout the state in October, and the general election in November, there have been ample occasions for our listeners to exercise their democratic rights this fall. A common sight in Nome and surrounding communities (especially on election days, of course) are the stickers above, proudly proclaiming “I Voted!” […]
With Stroke of a Pen, 20 Alaska Native Languages made Official State Languages
Lawmakers spoke to the work behind the bill, but assembled speakers, teachers, and students of many Alaska Native languages spoke to the vitality of what the recognition means.
Elder Voices: Patrick Omiak
This September, Elder Voices remembered the late Patrick Omiak. Born in Diomede in 1935, the respected leader passed away in early August of this year due to natural causes. He was 77 years old. In November 2010, Patrick shared his memories and experiences with Elder Voices. We re-aired his story this month in honor of his […]
Elder Voices: Wilfred Anowlic
“Eskimo dancing and singing makes you feel good. It makes you forget all the problems you have in your life, your mind. It’s just like turning everything over to the care of God.” – Wilfred Anowlic Episode 1: Music Episode 2: Subsistence Episode 3: Peace
Elder Voices: Betty Segock
“Always teaching Always learning An Elder speaks While listeners observe intently Learning from brain to heart…” – Yaayuk Alvanna Stimpfle Episode I: Elim Episode II: Solomon Episode III: Nome, Elim, and God
Elder Voices: Raymond Seetok Sr.
This month’s Elder Voices celebrates Raymond Seetok Sr, a Kingikmiut elder from Wales. Raymond was born in Wales in 1946. A whaling captain, husband, and father, he grew up with twelve siblings in the traditional Inupiaq way. He speaks about the hardships he faced, and Inupiaq lessons his elders and parents passed onto him about […]
Elder Voices: Vince Pikonganna
On this month’s episode of Elder Voices, hear from Vince Pikonganna of King Island. Vince remembers his youth on the island, and along the way, sharing his knowledge of Inupiaq values and customs his elders passed down to him. Listen to Vince tell his story:
September 1981: Marilyn Koezuna joins KNOM
September 6, 1981 Marilyn Koezuna joins the KNOM air staff. Marilyn is a King Island Inupiaq Eskimo who helped the station while in high school. She returns as a Jesuit volunteer, the second Alaska Native to do so for a full year.