This week, the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs issued a press release to announce the celebration of the 75th anniversary of Native American voting rights in New Mexico through Encounter Culture. Season 4 of the series, spanning six episodes, highlights the perspectives of educators, community members, and the Trujillo family, examining the importance of voting rights and education for Native Americans according to a press release.
"New Mexico’s stories are deep and wide-reaching, and for season four, we took that to heart," Encounter Culture Charlotte Jusinski said.
According to a press release issued on July 18, The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs unveiled that Encounter Culture, is celebrating the 75th anniversary of Native American voting rights in New Mexico. The series features the story of Miguel H. Trujillo, an Isleta Pueblo native and former Marine Staff Sergeant in World War II. After his return, Trujillo attempted to register to vote but was denied due to the phrase "Indian not taxed" in New Mexico's state constitution. He courageously challenged this discriminatory practice in the courts, ultimately securing voting rights for Native Americans in New Mexico through a victorious ruling in 1948 by the New Mexico Supreme Court.
“We could not have done Miguel H. Trujillo’s story justice in one episode. So, we adapted our approach. The season is dedicated entirely to what Trujillo and his lawyer went through to ensure Native Americans were able to vote, and the major implications that court case had and still has in Native America," Charlotte Jusinski, host of Encounter Culture said.
In the fourth season of Encounter Culture, spanning six episodes, the series amplifies the perspectives of educators, community members, and the Trujillo family, delving into the importance of voting rights and education for Native Americans. Additionally, the show explores how studying the history of Native American voting rights influences present-day Native decision-makers. To comprehensively cover Trujillo's story, Encounter Culture collaborated with the Trujillo family, NMHM, and the National Endowment for the Humanities for interviews, the podcast season, and a small exhibition set to open on the museum's campus in August according to a press release.
"We teamed up with curator Stephanie Padilla, who came on as my co-host, to access her wealth of knowledge and resources. Stephanie and her team had great conversations with family members and subject matter experts who understand the ins and outs of the legal and social issues at play. It’s different from anything the show has done before. I hope our listeners enjoy what we’ve put together,” Charlotte Jusinski, host of Encounter Culture said, according to a press release.
Encounter Culture's Season 4 stands as a tribute to the journey of Miguel H. Trujillo, acknowledging the significance of voting rights for Native Americans in New Mexico. By sharing this inspiring story, Encounter Culture aims to promote education and awareness of the ongoing challenges and accomplishments of Native communities in the United States.
