North Star Journey

North Star Journey is a celebration of communities in Minnesota and the champions who are doing the work that we should be bringing a voice to. We hope to bring new understandings of our state and what brought us to today. About | Credits

MPR News also hosts North Star Journey Live, an event series discussing topics about what Minnesota’s diverse communities need to thrive. Check it out here.

🎧 Listen: Apple Podcasts, Spotify or via RSS link

Two Minnesota children's book authors on getting and giving a sense of belonging
Growing up is tough, but even more so when you feel like you don’t fit in. Hear two Minnesotan children’s authors of color talk about their paths to knowing and loving themselves — and how to teach that to children.
Dakota women leading two Twin Cities nonprofits aim to be catalysts for change 
The Twin Cities are at the epicenter of a dynamic shift in the world of land stewardship and restoration work. Leading the charge are two nonprofit environmental organizations —Wakan Tipi Awanyankapi and Owámniyomni Okhódayapi — now both led by Indigenous women.  
African immigrant entrepreneurs aim to transform Brooklyn Center strip mall 
The purchase of the aging Shingle Creek Mall was inspired by the growth of businesses run by African immigrants in the western Twin Cities suburbs. Its owners want it to be a model of economic inclusion and innovation. 
J.D. Steele: Spreading joy and soul through song
Musician J.D. Steele is known for his work with Prince and singing and producing R&B, gospel and soul with The Steeles. MPR News host Angela Davis talks with this Minnesota music powerhouse about his career, directing community choirs and inspiring the next generation to sing.
MnDOT drivers are keeping Indigenous languages alive, one snowplow at a time
While the now-annual Name a Snowplow Contest garners thousands of punny monikers, some plow drivers are hoping it’s an opportunity to keep Indigenous languages alive.
Designer and entrepreneur Houston White has a singular vision: to create a vibrant Black middle class in Minneapolis. And it’s more than a plan. It’s already becoming reality.
As church’s Latino population grows, so does Our Lady of Guadalupe celebration
Parishioners at the Church of the Assumption were eager to get a seat for the musical event to celebrate the feast day for Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patron saint of Mexico.