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.

Canterbury Park CEO talks horse racing as sports betting legalization goes before legislature
Legalizing sports betting is again going before Minnesota lawmakers during the 2024 legislative session. Canterbury Park CEO Randy Sampson joined Cathy Wurzer on Morning Edition to talk about the future of gambling on horse races.
Minneapolis City Council committee hears update on now-cleared Nenookaasi encampment
It’s unclear where all those who were living in Camp Nenookaasi when the city cleared it Tuesday have gone, but some moved to a nearby city lot. Supporters attended a city council committee meeting Wednesday afternoon.
U of M leaders outline initial steps to address harm done to Native communities
University of Minnesota leaders made their most extensive comments so far on recommendations made in the TRUTH Report, which details the university’s expropriation of Native lands and mistreatment of Native people throughout the state and region.  
Mille Lacs Band's chief executive Benjamin won’t seek reelection, calls job ‘greatest honor of my life’
The Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe’s chief executive Melanie Benjamin announced she will not be seeking a seventh term in office. Benjamin has served the nearly 5,000 member Ojibwe nation as the band’s top executive for nearly two and a half decades. 
In Ojibwe tradition, snow on the ground means it’s sacred storytelling season
The Native News team talks about the seven grandfather teachings, seasonal storytelling and Native books with James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw, a speaker, digital creator and author of “The Seven Generations and the Seven Grandfather Teachings.”