Native News

The Native News Project is a new initiative from MPR News.

Stay informed with the latest news about local and national Native American communities, highlighting stories and issues important to Native American communities in Minnesota and beyond.

Our coverage includes cultural events, policy updates, community stories and more to provide a platform for Native voices, perspectives and important news.

 Show and tell: New interactive tour aims to raise Dakota visibility in Minneapolis
A new self-guided walking tour highlighting Dakota history at Owámniyomni or St. Anthony Falls in Minneapolis is now live. Visitors can scan QR codes at five designated spots to learn about the sacred area through an Indigenous lens. 
Indigenous Peoples Day event in Minneapolis encourages voter registration, education
Indigenous communities across the country are celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day. In Minneapolis, the community is marking the holiday by making sure people are registered to vote and know about the issues.
‘Finding Manoomin: A Search for the Spirit of Wild Rice’
Leah Lemm, a citizen of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, embarks on a journey to connect with her cultural roots through the tradition of wild rice harvesting. Lemm uncovers the history and spiritual significance of this sacred plant, revered for its sustenance and deep connection to her people’s identity and Indigenous heritage.
‘A resilient plant’: Three tribal nations reflect on wild rice season, how heavy spring rainfall affected harvest
The annual wild rice season typically occurs from late August to early October. However, three tribal communities in northern Minnesota saw a late start to the season as beds were not ready to be harvested.