Smaller holiday gatherings have led to lower turkey sales. (Photo by Aimee Ashley Myers)

With Thanksgiving just ahead, Ashley Rodriguez reports on how Native Americans across the country are pushing back against the way the U.S. national holiday is taught in schools.

In addition, we speak with a turkey farmer who is struggling now that COVID-19 has forced people to downsize family gatherings. And producer Megan Burney asks an epidemiologist’s advice on staying safe with family during the holidays.

Also in this episode:

  • We mark Transgender Day of Remembrance, a time to honor the memory of transgender and nonbinary people who lost their lives to anti-trans violence. Reporter Valen Iricibar brings two generations together to talk about what it means to be trans now—and the road ahead.

  • Tre’vell Anderson, a gender non-conforming journalist and advocate for Black trans people, addresses the presidential election and what work needs to be done to ensure that all trans folks are able to live, survive and thrive, no matter who is in office.

Managing Editor Jackie Harris

Host/Lead Producer Holly DeMuth

Associate Producer Ali McPherson

Reporters Valen Iricibar, Megan Burney, and Erika Wheless

Engineer Chad Bernhard

Guest Tre’vell Anderson

Editors Kalli Anderson and Maggie Freleng

Music Dan Lebowitz, Jason Chaw, and Kai Farr.

For more info on AudioFiles, visit audiofilespodcast.com and soundcloud.com/newmarkjschool/sets/audiofiles-2020