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.

Lakota artist’s solo exhibition captures the tradition of storytelling
Danielle SeeWalker shares artworks inspired by grandmothers and elders in her solo exhibition, Uŋči Said So. The exhibition opens Friday at All My Relations Arts gallery in Minneapolis.
Artemis II astronaut carries wisdom of Seven Grandfathers to the moon
Canadian astronaut Jeremy Hansen’s uniform patch commemorating the Seven Grandfather Teachings is a long-overdue moment of recognition for Indigenous knowledge, observers say. Hansen said they’ve guided him on this journey to the edge of human flight.
High school student explores her Ojibwe identity and culture through fashion
A fashion show featuring Native students was held in northern Minnesota at Fortune Bay Resort Casino at the end of March. Adrionna Otis walked the runway for the first time, showcasing her beaded earrings and ribbon skirt she made. For Otis, creating wearable items helps her feel more connected to her Native identity and culture.
Results of Minnesota Chippewa Tribe primary elections are in
Six member nations of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe held primary elections this week. Some candidates were elected to leadership positions by majority vote; others move on to the general election in June.
From classroom to sugarbush, immersion school connects students to Indigenous language and culture
Wicoie Nandagikendan, an early childhood Dakota and Ojibwe immersion program, uses cultural teachings and family engagement for hands-on language learning. Despite funding freezes and external pressures, the program has remained open, supporting young learners in their language journey.
Hinckley-Finlayson student earns first state language certificate in Ojibwe
Since 2014, the state of Minnesota has run a program that grants high school students college credit for learning another language. Now, for the first time, a student has earned a certificate in Ojibwe.
Competing for power: Minnesota tribal nation, electric utility tangle over solar energy’s future  
The state Public Utilities Commission is weighing whether a tribal nation that buys power from a local electric cooperative can also operate its own massive solar array that may harm the co-op. The case raises questions of state law and tribal sovereignty.
Louise Erdrich seduces with 'Python's Kiss'
Louise Erdrich's new collection of short stories — including artwork done by her daughter, Aza Erdrich Abe — introduces us to a diverse and eccentric mix of narratives and characters. All ask us what it means to be human today.