November 29, 2019 – University of New Mexico football fans have been watching the ups and downs of the Lobos this season, including the suicide of player Nahje Flowers and the recent announcement that Coach Bob Davie won’t return. All the while, one player has been recognized for his life awareness work off the field. Teton Saltes, a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe, is an advocate for Indigenous children. He is a life awareness mentor and his interest in politics has led him to advocate on Capitol Hill with Save the Children Network. Suicide is a sensitive, but important topic in Native American communities. Federal statistics show alarming rates of suicide among American Indian and Alaska Native people. This week, NMiF correspondent Antonia Gonzales talks with the Lobo football player about what drives his passion to help young people. The number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 800-273-8255.

Guest:
Teton Saltes, Oglala Sioux, UNM Football Player

For Further Reading:

Saltes’ Drive for Change – The Coloradoan

The BEAR Project – at Pine Ridge, South Dakota