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.

Act to repeal harmful law may not go far enough for Dakota people 
The Sioux Dakota Removal Act passed in 1863 could be repealed in South Dakota. Dakota people in Minnesota wonder if it will go far enough to undo the harm it caused when it was originally passed. 
Benita Long disappeared. So why wasn’t she added to this missing person database?
A federally funded database helps track long-term, missing-person cases. Yet an NPR investigation finds that even in states legally required to use it, more than 2,000 people haven’t been added.
Indigenous playwright debuts new play on the national stage
Playwright Rhiana Yazzie’s, “The Other Children of the Sun,” is based on the Navajo creation story. During times of significant change for the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C., Yazzie says it’s a strong statement for Indigenous people and stories to be seen on stage.
Tribal nations are concerned that Trump's cuts have the potential to violate trust responsibilities
Tribal leaders across the United States are scrambling to respond to a directive from President Donald Trump and Elon Musk to close more than a quarter of Bureau of Indian Affairs offices, which provide vital services to Indigenous communities. 
Klobuchar, Smith call for answers about potential Indian Health Service office lease termination
U.S. Senators Tina Smith and Amy Klobuchar are pressing for answers regarding the potential termination of the Bemidji Area Indian Health Service’s lease, underlining treaty obligations and concerns for disruptions in health care services.