Community Peace Radio Show #59

Date: 26 December 2009

Topic: John Trudell -- "Intelligence as an Alternative Energy Source"

Participant: John Trudell

Host: Pat Leahan

Summary: We interview acclaimed poet, national recording artist, actor, and activist John Trudell about the importance of thinking creatively and coherently in these challenging times. John talks about the importance of using our intelligence creatively as an alternative energy source: "As human beings, we find ourselves in a dimensional reality where we feel powerless to deal with the various situations we find ourselves in. As human beings, it is time to take responsibility for the power of our intelligence, and use the power of our intelligence to think clearly and coherently and create solutions to the problems we are confronted with."

Besides having the largest FBI file in U.S. history for being "dangerous" due to the power and truth of his words, John is revered by many as the most effective Native American activist in these times. A Santee Sioux, John talks about the Indian of All Tribes occupation of Alcatraz Island (1969-1971), as well as his role as Chair of A.I.M. (American Indian Movement) from 1973-1979. But he points out that that was then and this is now, and that we need to be creative with our intelligence to deal with current events. Rather than "revolution," he points out, what we need is "evolution."

John's documented work is impressive (you can find many of his items at Clarity Gifts and Gallery on Bridge St. in Las Vegas, NM or visit their website, noted below) -- published poetry and books, many albums, roles in feature films (e.g,. ThunderHeart, Smoke Signals, and Trudell: The Movie), and more.  But John says that, really, he is simply "a human being trying to make it in a world that is very rapidly losing its understanding of being human."

We end today's show with 2 incredible songs from John's not-yet-released album "Crazier Than Hell," including the brilliantly profound yet simple track #1 -- "It Is What It Is."

Resources:
http://www.ClarityGallery.com/
http://http://www.JohnTrudell.com/
http://www.TrudellTheMovie.com/
http://www.GiveLoveGiveLife.net/

Pat's Extra Notes:
This was a profound experience for me -- a privilege to interview a man whose poetry has had an effect on me for more than 20 years, when I first met him at a Pow Wow in Minnesota.

Thank you, David, for our CPR intro music:
http://www.DavidRovics.com/