The Freedom of Real Apologies

In this podcast, we hear the conversation between the host, Krista Tippet, and her guest Layli Long Soldier. Layli,being a citizen of the Oglala Lokata Nation, was disappointed in the formal apology from the United States government for the treatment of Native people in the past. The "apology" was almost hidden away, as if it was a secret. It also didn't take much blame for the past treatment of the Native Americans but rather said both sides were at fault.

Layli was surprised when she didn't find out about the apology until months later because she is apart of that culture and community. The fact that she had not heard of it is important because it makes it seem like the government was trying to hide it and keep it a secret. It was very impersonal and formal. The phrasing they used is the reason for that. As Layli pointed out, they made the arrival of the Europeans to America sound poetic. They don't mention the treatment of the Natives or the genocide. Instead they lay blame on both sides, and don't take much responsibility for the actions of the Americans. The details of phrasing are important because it determines how the audience will interpret the writing. For example, the government wrote the apology in a way that didn't sound like an apology.

Specificity is important in this podcast because it helps the audience understand what and who exactly is being talked about and affected by this apology. Its important for my writing because here on campus there are many sports teams. From NCAA teams to IM sports and each have very different time commitments. So it is important that my readers know exactly who it is I'm researching.

The structure of this podcast was very relaxed and conversational. I personally believe it was more on the informal side because it made it more of a comfortable setting for the guest. She didn't feel rushed to give a short to the point answer. Layli was able to discuss her answers and explain them. I will try to incorporate this tone and structure into my interviews for my research paper because I want whoever I am interviewing to feel comfortable and for them not to reply with yes or no answers only. Listening to this podcast really helped me prepare for what I need to do in my interviews and writing.