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.

Two sites in St. Paul will be renamed to reflect cultural significance to Dakota tribes
The city of St. Paul announced Wednesday the renaming of Bruce Vento Nature Sanctuary and Indian Mounds Regional Park to Waḳaƞ Ṭípi, meaning “dwelling place of the sacred” and Wicaḣapi, meaning “cemetery.”
Minnesota tribes 'breaking the glass ceiling' of cannabis sales outside reservations
White Earth Nation signed a first-of-its-kind agreement with the state, recognizing the tribe’s authority to regulate cannabis dispensaries off reservation land.
Tribal cannabis dispensaries to open across Minnesota with White Earth Nation tribal-state compact
The state of Minnesota and White Earth Nation have finalized a cannabis compact, laying out an agreement for tribally run dispensaries outside tribal lands.
A ‘giving spirit’: Lakota elder honored at American Indian Day on the Hill
Lakota elder Jerry Dearly was honored on the steps of the Minnesota Capitol during American Indian Day on the Hill for his long career in education and his dedication to community.
‘It brings us back to our roots’: Teams gathered in Shakopee for Dakota language competition
The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community recently hosted its third Dakota language bowl. Over 30 teams put their knowledge to the test in the daylong competition.