Critical Conversations

An eye-opening look at Oregon’s historic racism and the work that has been done locally to create a more culturally and racially welcoming community. Marcus LeGrand, mentor and teacher, tells how to effectively cooperate with organizations to offer mentoring, education opportunities and build outreach programs that provide for families, fight for restorative justice and change the narrative around...

The ripple effect of gun violence is wide and the discussion here brings awareness to and questions how our immediate culture shapes the way we view and process gun violence. Brandy Steelhammer and Juniper Rook, both gun safety advocates in Central Oregon, vulnerably give their own stories and many ways to take action against gun violence. Originally aired on May 31, 2022 on KPOV's Curiosity Lab O...

The number of homeless is rising, and this very diverse population needs a safe space to build self-esteem, create a sense of belonging and be in control of their own transition “indoors.” To better understand the practicality and humanity of such a multi-faceted issue, we talk to Larry Kogovsek, of Sagewood Sanctuary, who is an important advocate for the homeless in Central Oregon. Originally air...

A crucial talk about how to approach someone who may be showing warning signs of committing suicide. Whitney Schumacher, Deschutes County Suicide Prevention Coordinator, works along side community organizations and members to reduce suicide attempts and provide essential support through outreach, awareness, education and policy change. Originally aired on September 4, 2019 on KPOV’s The Wednesday...

Wife of Medgar Evers, civil rights leader who died of political violence on June 12, 1963, Myrlie Evers Williams, uses wisdom and knowledge from past experiences to continue fighting for justice and equal opportunity today. She urges us not to forget the essence of Medgar’s fight for equal voting rights and the basic rights of each American individual. Originally aired on January 20, 2021 on KPOV’...

This topical discussion brings awareness to how important consistent and supportive reproductive and abortion care is for Oregonians. Also, what will happen if Roe v. Wade is overturned at the federal level and our communities response to continuing to offer this equal, fundamental care for all. Originally aired on May 10, 2022 on KPOV’s Curiosity Lab Our mission at KPOV is to strengthen community...

An open, raw discussion with Josie Stanfield of Central Oregon Diversity Project linking the ties between the Black Lives Matter protest movement and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s cries for representation and equality. How MLK Jr’s words have been used to help and harm communities and people of color. Originally aired on February 1, 2022 on KPOV’s The Tuesday Point Our mission at KPOV is to strength...

“Ghost skins” are infiltrating local law enforcement communities across the USA, reports the 2006 FBI Intelligence Assessment White Supremacist Infiltration of Law Enforcement . This enlightening conversation with Teryl Young, criminology major, aids in breaking down the hidden codes used to systematically marginalize BIPOC communities, as well as spotlighting the mental and social health of law e...

Kenny Adams of The Fathers Group is working to improve the lives of Central Oregon’s BIPOC youth by providing positive role models and an active support system. They continue to promote conversations between the black activist community and the public as a whole to break down racial barriers. Originally aired on February 22, 2022 on KPOV’s The Tuesday Point Our mission at KPOV is to strengthen com...

Organizing student walkouts and protesting the desire for more gun control laws in Central Oregon, Redmond Proficiency Academy students, led by youth activist Juniper Rook, are not afraid to stand up for what they believe community leaders should prioritize; Their lives. Originally aired on January 31, 2022 on KPOV’s The Tuesday Point Our mission at KPOV is to strengthen community, the arts, local...

Multiple cannabis dispensaries were burned to the ground during the devastating 2020 fires in Oregon. Hear how it went for Thorin Thacker, owner of Canyon Cannabis, dealing with local and state assistance and the relocation to Mill City, Oregon. Originally aired on March 28, 2022 on KPOV’s The High Desert Co-op Our mission at KPOV is to strengthen community, the arts, local culture, and democracy...