indigenous Archives - KVRR Local News

Native Community Celebrates High School Graduation

The graduating seniors were honored with a special ceremony that incorporated aspects of indigenous culture.

May 14, 2025

Gabriel Ostler,

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – Indigenous families and their support systems came together to celebrate their newest class of graduating high school seniors. The ceremony took place at Dakota High School on 9th Avenue South in Fargo. It kicked off with a prayer and communal meal in the school’s cafeteria – followed by diploma presentations accompanied by traditional Native song and…

Charges Brought Against White Earth Officials

The Chairman faces six charges, while the Secretary-Treasurer faces three.

March 2, 2025

Gabriel Ostler,

WHITE EARTH RESERVATION, MN – Charges are being brought against two elected officials on the White Earth Reservation. According to documentation, 6 charges are being sought against the Chairman, Michael Fairbanks, and 3 charges are being sought against the Secretary-Treasurer, Mike LaRoque. The charges allege – among other things – that Fairbanks took advantage of staff for personal gain by…

Sen. Tina Smith Co-Authors Bill to Combat Drug Trafficking in Tribal Communities

The current laws on the books do not allow for tribal law enforcement to prosecute non-natives.

December 18, 2024

Gabriel Ostler,

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KVRR) — Democratic Sen. Tina Smith of Minnesota has introduced legislation aimed at combatting the drug trade within indigenous communities. The junior Senator from Minnesota has partnered with Republican Sen. Steve Daines of Montana to create the PROTECT Act. The goal is to give tribal nations more power in pursuing drug cases. Right now, tribal law enforcement is…

Native American Education Program Winter Gathering Brings Community Together

Organizers say it's one of the largest such events in the F-M area and is a great opportunity to strengthen bonds.

December 18, 2024

Gabriel Ostler,

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — The Native American Education Winter Gathering took place at Discovery Middle School from 6-8 P.M. on Dec. 18th. There was food, a photo booth by Dreamcatcher Photography, face painting, a rotation of other activity stations, games, and music by DJ Birdman. Santa Claus even dropped by to hand out candy bags and take some photos with…

Exploring Indigenous Culture at Hjemkomst Center

October 14, 2024

KVRR Staff,

MOORHEAD, Minn. (KVRR) — People got a chance to learn about indigenous people during a luncheon held at Hjemkomst Center. They were given an “Indigi Bowl” that contained wild rice, buffalo meat, and veggie toppings. The event, held by the Indigenous Association, featured Anishinaabe leader Ricky White. He has over 22 years of experience as an Ojibwe language and culture…

Hundreds celebrate Indigenous culture at annual picnic

August 20, 2023

Site Staff,

MOORHEAD, Minn. (KVRR) — Hundreds from our community celebrated Native culture at MB Johnson Park for the annual Native American Picnic. After a ceremony filled with singing and dancing, the community brought out the food featuring hot dogs and burgers. The DJ kept the party going for all while the kids jumped in bouncy houses. Those from all backgrounds were…

Native American imagery could be banned in Minnesota schools

March 30, 2023

Site Staff,

ST. PAUL, Minn. (KVRR) — Minnesota lawmakers are considering a bill that would prevent schools from using Native American imagery as logos. Senator Mary Kunesh is behind Senate File 584 which would require schools to file requests to grant permission from the Tribal Nations Education Committee and Indian Affairs Council to continue using a nickname and logo. Schools can also…

More Remains Found On Campus at UND

November 2, 2022

TJ Nelson,

GRAND FORKS, N.D. (KVRR) — UND leaders announce they have found additional Indigenous remains in the School of Medicine & Health Sciences, along with possible human skeletal remains used in the teaching of anatomy. It follows the announcement in late August that 250 boxes of Indigenous remains and artifacts were discovered on campus earlier in March. Ever since they were…

Judge dismisses charges against three Enbridge Line 3 pipeline protestors

July 6, 2022

Site Staff,

WHITE EARTH NATION (KVRR) – A White Earth Tribal judge dismisses charges against three Indigenous people involved in Enbridge line three pipeline protests. Nancy Beaulieu, Justin Keezer and Todd Thompson were charged with criminal trespassing at an eight day ceremonial camp at Fire Light camp. It is on land above where Enbridge Energy built the pipeline. White Earth Court Judge…

Dakota High School’s name change honors indigenous culture

What was once known as Woodrow Wilson High school, is now known as Dakota High School.

September 15, 2021

Aaron Walling,

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — Fargo Public Schools is celebrating one high school’s name change. What was once known as Woodrow Wilson High school, is now known as Dakota High School. An opening ceremony celebrating the name change honors Native Americans. “This ceremony is about recognizing the roots of our name. We see North Dakota, we hear the term North Dakota…