Native America Calling: Native Muslims reflect on Ramadan and religious intolerance

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Native America Calling: Native Muslims reflect on Ramadan and religious intolerance

Thursday, March 19, 2026

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Native American Muslims, a distinct minority, reflect on Ramadan and religious intolerance

Muslims around the world are marking the end of Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar.

Ramadan is a time of prayer, fasting, and spiritual rejuvenation. Among those participating are a handful of Native Americans who have a unique relationship with Islam.

The Islamic Center of America in Dearborn, Michigan, is known as the largest mosque in North America. Photo: Dane Hillard

Tune in to speak with some Native Muslims about their faith and how they confront renewed animosity toward their beliefs as rhetoric from elected leaders and others increases.

Also, get Indigenous perspectives on increasing tensions between the United States and Cuba. President Donald Trump threatens to take over the country.

A blockade by the U.S. is exacerbating Cuba’s long-standing energy crisis, shutting citizens off from many of the basics of daily life.

Guests on Native America Calling

Megan Kalk (Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe), Muslim convert, based in Minnesota

Jamila Southwind (Keeseekoose First Nation), Muslim, mother, and former translator, based in Canada

Raymond Matt (Crow Creek Sioux and Salish and Kootenai), Muslim Revert and father, based in Montana

José Barreiro (Taíno), journalist, former editor of Akwesasne Notes, and scholar emeritus at the Smithsonian Institution