Native Visions

by Nick Coons
May 4, 2005

There is a new program that begins airing on Channel 8 (KAET-TV) called "Native Visions." It plans to dispel some of the mysteries and misinformation about Native Americans in Arizona

Arizona	(air-i'-ZON-u')
The State of Arizona comprises the extreme south-western portion of the United States. It is bounded on the north by Utah, on the east by New Mexico, on the south by Mexico, and on the west by California and Nevada.

. There's more to Native Americans than casinos and reservation life. This program will take its viewers beyond that point.

With the help of tribal leaders, politicians, healers, educators, and host Ivan Makil, "Native Visions" will be able to discuss important issues with the community about education, health care, and teach the public how the tribes operate.

According to Makil, valley residents are ready for an education on Indian affairs, mostly because once-remote reservations now sit right up against valley cities. The program cost $25,000 to make and about a year to plan and produce. Makil and others involved hope that viewer interest will create funding that will allow for four or more "Native Visions" programs every year.