Just shy of a quarter of eligible voters of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe voted on the question of tribal blood percentages as a criteria of membership, with around 65% of this population voting that the blood quantum requirement should be removed. The vote will affect the six reservations that make up the tribe, where a majority of voters say that each reservation should be allowed to determine their own requirements for enrollment. The blood quantum requirement, which requires 25% percent Minnesota Chippewa Indian blood and has been in place in this tribe since 1961, is the work of the Federal government tracking tribal membership. In this case, the blood quantum requirement has contributed to shrinking tribal enrollment numbers. With each generation, many children born to tribal member parents become ineligible for enrollment as their tribal “blood quantum” shrinks. Now, the decision process to amend the constitution falls into the hands of tribal leaders with a secretarial vote, and at least 30% of Minnesota Chippewa Tribe members (or, another 3,000 people than who voted earlier this summer) must vote on the referendum. 

Members of the Prairie Island Indian Community built the first traditional bark lodge in Minnesota in over 150 years this June. The effort came together with the help of other tribes, like the Gun Lake Band of Potawatomi in Michigan as well as the guide provided by several mid 19th century paintings depicting the bark lodges. No blueprints were used throughout the process. 
Traditionally, bark lodges were used for ceremonies and gatherings in the summer and storing items in the winter. Community and government members with Prairie Island recognize the significance of this lodge for their community, which is fostering pride and serves as a testament to the thriving traditions and culture of Prairie Island Indian Community members.

Hanging out in the Twin Cities is a great way to spend the day.
Here are some upcoming events that you may want to check out!

Is there an event you want us to share?
Reach out here: newprensa@newpublica.com

• Summer Cypher is happening on the corner of Chicago and Lake St on Saturday, August 6th from 2:00 PM - 10:00 PM. The event is a celebration of grassroots hip hop, and has been happening for over 5 years. The event is free and open for all ages. 

• The Powderhorn Art Fair is happening both Saturday and Sunday, August 6th and 7th from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The fair will feature over 150 artists, special art ceremonies, food vendors, and music! The event is free and open to all ages, with art and food available for purchase. 

• Flower Power is an event happening on August 6th from sunrise (6:00 AM) to sunset (8:00 PM) at Indian Burial Mounds Park in St. Paul. The event celebrates all life, decolonization of existing systems, gun safety, and climate rescue. The event is free and open to all, and coordinators ask that attendees bring flowers.

Open Arms of Minnesota, a nonprofit that delivers free meals to Minnesotans with critical illnesses, is expanding their recipes to better serve Hmong, East African, and Latino community members. The organization is sourcing the new recipes from community members to help preserve authenticity, and to care for clients in a way that is both medically and culturally informed.