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

Native-led EV initiative launches by distributing millions of dollars worth of vehicles to tribal communities
Native-led renewable energy program startup Electric Nation is sending millions of dollars worth of electric vehicles to two tribal communities in Minnesota and North Dakota.
Ramsey County Board weighs possible name change for Savage Lake in Little Canada
The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing Tuesday on the proposal to rename the lake that includes a derogatory term used to describe Native Americans.
Martin Luther King Jr.'s visits to Minnesota more than 50 years ago still resonate
On what would have been King’s 95th birthday, many are celebrating the civil rights leader, while also reflecting on what his words reveal about the march for justice still ahead.
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.