Minneapolis-based Native American publication turns to its next chapter
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A long-standing independent Native American newspaper has entered a new era after more than 45 years of publication.
The Circle was founded at the Minneapolis American Indian Center in 1980. Starting as a community bulletin, the newspaper transformed into a free monthly publication covering Native voices and stories.
The Circle announced key changes in its structure earlier this year — first, it would be under new leadership, and second, its traditional monthly newspaper would move to quarterly magazine releases.
Robert Pilot, a St. Paul resident and citizen of the Ho-Chunk Nation, took on the role of chief editor. Pilot is the founder and host of Native Roots Radio, a program launched on AM 950 nearly a decade ago. His background also spans teaching high school education and representing the Ho-Chunk Nation as an elected leader.
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“My background is community and helping community,” Pilot said.
Leaders of The Circle say the move to a new model opens opportunities for innovation and creativity.
“I wanted to have it more like The New Yorker magazine, where people would save the art,” Pilot said. The Circle’s first volume featured Dakota artwork on its cover and Ojibwe artwork on the back cover.
The Circle’s most recent release nods to the Minnesota State Fair on its cover, showcasing imagery of popular fair foods. The overall theme, however, focuses on the start of the school year, which overlaps with the fair.
In addition to a quarterly magazine release, Pilot says daily news will be shared on the outlet’s website.
“There's so many people that are doing things and have been doing things for a long time that don't get noticed,” Pilot said. “We want to amplify that and amplify just what's happening in Indian Country.”
David Cournoyer is a board member of The Circle. He says the publication’s long-lasting relationship within the community has contributed to its longevity. Contributors and leadership are often seen in the community, fostering a foundation of trust.
“I think The Circle can say, 'We're not going anywhere.’ And that's a big deal,” Cournoyer said.
Pilot adds that he feels a sense of resurgence within the Native community, in which organizations and concepts are being revisited with inspiration from younger generations. While Pilot has stepped up as chief editor of The Circle for now, he hopes to move aside and let upcoming generations lead the way.
“I'm so excited to be able to, in a couple years, hand this off to somebody younger,” he said.
Alongside physical releases of The Circle, a digital copy will be available for download on the publication’s website.
“If you miss the magazine or if you're in a different state and you don't subscribe to it, you'll be able to see what's happening,” Pilot said. There is no charge to access the magazine in either physical or digital form.
Chandra Colvin covers Native American communities in Minnesota for MPR News via Report for America, a national service program that places journalists into local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues and communities.
