Buffalo’s Fire — Indigenous News & Native Issues Coverage

News from the Northern Plains

Final day to comment on U.S. Census proposal to stop tracking race and ethnicity is Nov. 2

Native leaders say the rushed proposal happened without proper consultation and would reduce tribal enrollment

By Shaun Griswold

By the numbers: A historic year for Indigenous candidates

The number of Indigenous candidates who ran for public office has jumped by nearly 400 percent compared to 2016, according to ICT database

Pauly Denetclaw, ICT

Bilingual sign for voters on the Crow Indian Reservation.

More than 300 legal volunteers activated to assist Native voters

The Native American Rights Fund to send attorneys and law students to 8 states

By Shaun Griswold

On the campaign trail with Deb Haaland

Severe flooding highlights needs for rural infrastructure during final week of New Mexico governor’s race

By Shaun Griswold

National Congress of American Indians

NCAI leaders share concern over permitting bill that could override tribal sovereignty

83rd convening of Native leadership ends with resolutions supporting free press, traditional ceremonies and tribal land management

By Shaun Griswold

Tribes and tech

Reservations refuse data center developments, but some worry they’re missing out on opportunities

Emergent technologies raise concerns about natural resources, exploitation and education in Montana

By Bret Anne Serbin

Broadview, Montana

Natural Disasters

White House approves disaster relief for tribal communities hit by New Mexico floods

President Trump directs federal aid funding for Navajo Nation, Pueblo and Apache communities

By Shaun Griswold

College Football

Lightning, turquoise and big defense drew college football’s attention when New Mexico met North Dakota State

The Group of Six game of the week showcased similarities between two distinct schools

By Shaun Griswold

National Congress of American Indians

NCAI adopts support for independent Native media and freedom of information

General council voted Thursday to support free press initiative that seeks to expand tribal records laws

By Shaun Griswold

National Congress of American Indians

Tohono O’odham chairman on sacred site destruction: ‘If this can happen to us, it can happen to each and every one of you out there’

The 83rd annual National Congress of American Indians convention began Monday

By Shaun Griswold

83rd Annual NCAI convention

Tribal Transparency

How leaders of Native nations can look to their peers for guidance on transparency and accountability

The Northern Cheyenne Tribe's government has been beset with rumors and constitutional chaos. Approaches taken by other tribes could offer insight into resolving the conflict

By Bret Anne Serbin

A Buffalo’s Fire series on press freedom and transparency in Indian Country

Rooted in solutions journalism, the series will highlight responses to transparency deserts, offering evidence of what works, insights into successful governance models, and an honest look at the limitations of current systems.

Frybread Face and Me

Best Native American movies, series — the ones worth watching

Beyond the stereotypes. We curate the essential Native-led films and the new wave of Native storytelling you need to see

Dentalium

For the love of dentalium

From Pacific tides to Great Plains regalia, the dentalium shell remains a timeless symbol of status and spirit

Digital Borders

Data sovereignty: Who controls the story?

Listening sessions reveal how tribal data sovereignty and press freedom are connected to accountable governance

Tribes and tech

Reservations refuse data center developments, but some worry they’re missing out on opportunities

Emergent technologies raise concerns about natural resources, exploitation and education in Montana

By Bret Anne Serbin

Broadview, Montana

Natural Disasters

White House approves disaster relief for tribal communities hit by New Mexico floods

President Trump directs federal aid funding for Navajo Nation, Pueblo and Apache communities

By Shaun Griswold

College Football

Lightning, turquoise and big defense drew college football’s attention when New Mexico met North Dakota State

The Group of Six game of the week showcased similarities between two distinct schools

By Shaun Griswold

National Congress of American Indians

NCAI adopts support for independent Native media and freedom of information

General council voted Thursday to support free press initiative that seeks to expand tribal records laws

By Shaun Griswold

National Congress of American Indians

Tohono O’odham chairman on sacred site destruction: ‘If this can happen to us, it can happen to each and every one of you out there’

The 83rd annual National Congress of American Indians convention began Monday

By Shaun Griswold

83rd Annual NCAI convention

Tribal Transparency

How leaders of Native nations can look to their peers for guidance on transparency and accountability

The Northern Cheyenne Tribe's government has been beset with rumors and constitutional chaos. Approaches taken by other tribes could offer insight into resolving the conflict

By Bret Anne Serbin

The Daily Spark

Northern Cheyenne Tribe voters to elect council members

Five seats are up for grabs in the tribal community rife with council instability

By Shaun Griswold

More than 300 legal volunteers activated to assist Native voters

The Native American Rights Fund to send attorneys and law students to 8 states

By Shaun Griswold

Bilingual sign for voters on the Crow Indian Reservation.

The Daily Spark

U.S. Health and Human Services reps to visit Standing Rock

Tribal leaders move council meeting to accommodate visit

By Shaun Griswold

On the campaign trail with Deb Haaland

Severe flooding highlights needs for rural infrastructure during final week of New Mexico governor’s race

By Shaun Griswold

The Daily Spark

First aid clinic for psychological wellness offered by Crow tribal partners

Free event in Montana offers CPR-style skills for supporting people in crisis

By Bret Anne Serbin

National Congress of American Indians

NCAI leaders share concern over permitting bill that could override tribal sovereignty

83rd convening of Native leadership ends with resolutions supporting free press, traditional ceremonies and tribal land management

By Shaun Griswold

Tribes and tech

Reservations refuse data center developments, but some worry they’re missing out on opportunities

Emergent technologies raise concerns about natural resources, exploitation and education in Montana

By Bret Anne Serbin

Broadview, Montana

Natural Disasters

White House approves disaster relief for tribal communities hit by New Mexico floods

President Trump directs federal aid funding for Navajo Nation, Pueblo and Apache communities

By Shaun Griswold

College Football

Lightning, turquoise and big defense drew college football’s attention when New Mexico met North Dakota State

The Group of Six game of the week showcased similarities between two distinct schools

By Shaun Griswold

National Congress of American Indians

NCAI adopts support for independent Native media and freedom of information

General council voted Thursday to support free press initiative that seeks to expand tribal records laws

By Shaun Griswold

National Congress of American Indians

Tohono O’odham chairman on sacred site destruction: ‘If this can happen to us, it can happen to each and every one of you out there’

The 83rd annual National Congress of American Indians convention began Monday

By Shaun Griswold

83rd Annual NCAI convention

Tribal Transparency

How leaders of Native nations can look to their peers for guidance on transparency and accountability

The Northern Cheyenne Tribe's government has been beset with rumors and constitutional chaos. Approaches taken by other tribes could offer insight into resolving the conflict

By Bret Anne Serbin

Support the NCAI 2026 Press Freedom Resolution

Flyers BoardNotices and events

Press Freedom
Oct 19
Native Media Freedom Alliance champions NCAI resolution to strengthen tribal sovereignty through independent press

The Daily Spark

Quick stories, must reads

Support the NCAI 2026 Press Freedom Resolution

Flyers BoardNotices and events

Press Freedom
Oct 19
Native Media Freedom Alliance champions NCAI resolution to strengthen tribal sovereignty through independent press

The Daily Spark

Quick stories, must reads

The Battle of the Little Bighorn (Greasy Grass): Why it’s still being fought

150 years after the "Greasy Grass" victory, the Lakota and Cheyenne are planning a massive 2026 commemoration—and still refuse a $1.5 billion settlement for their land

By Pier Paolo Bozzano

What a Superfund site is and how EPA cleanup works

Nearly 200 Superfund sites are on tribal land

By Gabrielle Nelson

No body, no crime? How prosecutors prove murder when a victim is missing

While proving a homicide without remains can be a challenge, conviction rates are high

How search and rescue technology helps find missing people — and its role in MMIP cases

Missing persons searches use drones, sonar and scent tracking dogs

Jingle Dress dance

Rules & Dress Code

Powwow etiquette: A respectful visitor’s guide

From the first drumbeat to the last song, respect carries the tradition forward

By Teresa Trumbly Lamsam, Ph.D.

What a Superfund site is and how EPA cleanup works

Nearly 200 Superfund sites are on tribal land

By Gabrielle Nelson

No body, no crime? How prosecutors prove murder when a victim is missing

While proving a homicide without remains can be a challenge, conviction rates are high

How search and rescue technology helps find missing people — and its role in MMIP cases

Missing persons searches use drones, sonar and scent tracking dogs

Rules & Dress Code

Powwow etiquette: A respectful visitor’s guide

From the first drumbeat to the last song, respect carries the tradition forward

By Teresa Trumbly Lamsam, Ph.D.

Jingle Dress dance

What a Superfund site is and how EPA cleanup works

By Gabrielle Nelson

No body, no crime? How prosecutors prove murder when a victim is missing

How search and rescue technology helps find missing people — and its role in MMIP cases

Jingle Dress dance

Rules & Dress Code

Powwow etiquette: A respectful visitor’s guide

By Teresa Trumbly Lamsam, Ph.D.

Other stories in Explainers

Northern Cheyenne

Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council removes Gene Small as president: ‘He is now just a civilian’

Small contests decision, claims he’s still president as council appoints temporary replacement

By Shaun Griswold

Cattle fencing outside the Northern Cheyenne capitol

Contested government

‘Barnyard circus’: Northern Cheyenne leaders speak out a year after being ousted

Courts pave way for return of the council members, who see ongoing problems with safety, service delivery stemming from government turmoil

By Bret Anne Serbin

Northern Cheyenne Tribal Building

Northern Cheyenne

Northern Cheyenne’s specially elected council has been governing ‘unlawfully,’ appellate court finds

New ruling reaffirms the authority of council members who were ousted in 2025

By Bret Anne Serbin

MHA Nation Election

MHA Nation chairman voters oust one incumbent for November election

Two segment incumbents re-elected while Four Bears set for general runoff

By Shaun Griswold

Amanda R.J. Cheromiah, the executive director of the Jim Thorpe Center for the Future of Native Peoples at Dickinson College

‘Where they belong’: Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes bring home the remains of three members

The emotional repatriation of Christine Redstone, Peter Howe and Richard Morgan marked the end of a 136-year separation.

Lauren Miller & JoVonne Wagner, Montana Free Press

Contested government

‘Barnyard circus’: Northern Cheyenne leaders speak out a year after being ousted

Courts pave way for return of the council members, who see ongoing problems with safety, service delivery stemming from government turmoil

By Bret Anne Serbin

Cattle fencing outside the Northern Cheyenne capitol

Northern Cheyenne

Northern Cheyenne’s specially elected council has been governing ‘unlawfully,’ appellate court finds

New ruling reaffirms the authority of council members who were ousted in 2025

By Bret Anne Serbin

Northern Cheyenne Tribal Building

MHA Nation Election

MHA Nation chairman voters oust one incumbent for November election

Two segment incumbents re-elected while Four Bears set for general runoff

By Shaun Griswold

‘Where they belong’: Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes bring home the remains of three members

The emotional repatriation of Christine Redstone, Peter Howe and Richard Morgan marked the end of a 136-year separation.

Lauren Miller & JoVonne Wagner, Montana Free Press

Amanda R.J. Cheromiah, the executive director of the Jim Thorpe Center for the Future of Native Peoples at Dickinson College

Cattle fencing outside the Northern Cheyenne capitol

Contested government

‘Barnyard circus’: Northern Cheyenne leaders speak out a year after being ousted

By Bret Anne Serbin

Northern Cheyenne Tribal Building

Northern Cheyenne

Northern Cheyenne’s specially elected council has been governing ‘unlawfully,’ appellate court finds

By Bret Anne Serbin

MHA Nation Election

MHA Nation chairman voters oust one incumbent for November election

By Shaun Griswold

Amanda R.J. Cheromiah, the executive director of the Jim Thorpe Center for the Future of Native Peoples at Dickinson College

‘Where they belong’: Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes bring home the remains of three members

Lauren Miller & JoVonne Wagner, Montana Free Press

Other stories in Native Issues

Murdered & Missing Indigenous Peoples

Midterm elections

Montana Republican congressional candidate ties Indian Country safety to immigration enforcement

Vying to represent western Montana in the U.S. House, Aaron Flint appeared at a Kalispell rally with President Trump Wednesday

By Bret Anne Serbin

Joseph M. Marshall III

Sing for the Red Dress

Murder mysteries and Indigenous knowledge: The legacy of Sicangu Oglala Lakota author Joseph M. Marshall III

In the last installment of the Smokey River Suspense series, recently deceased author, historian and cultural bearer Joseph M. Marshall III tackled his most challenging mystery: Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.

Chana Kaplan, Buffalo's Fire

Janie Ducheneaux

Tribal leaders call for urgent action on public safety crisis

Oglala Sioux Tribe president: ‘We need results’

Buffalo’s Fire built an interactive map to track missing Indigenous people, and we need community help

Vital information is often buried, hard to find. We’re asking our communities to send us tips and corrections

By Pier Paolo Bozzano

On the Blackfeet Reservation, families learn to search for their own missing relatives

As Indigenous people go missing and are murdered at disproportionately high rates, families learn forensic skills to find their own loved ones.

Nora Mabie and Lauren Miller, Montana Free Press

Sing for the Red Dress

Murder mysteries and Indigenous knowledge: The legacy of Sicangu Oglala Lakota author Joseph M. Marshall III

In the last installment of the Smokey River Suspense series, recently deceased author, historian and cultural bearer Joseph M. Marshall III tackled his most challenging mystery: Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.

Chana Kaplan, Buffalo's Fire

Joseph M. Marshall III

Tribal leaders call for urgent action on public safety crisis

Oglala Sioux Tribe president: ‘We need results’

Janie Ducheneaux

Buffalo’s Fire built an interactive map to track missing Indigenous people, and we need community help

Vital information is often buried, hard to find. We’re asking our communities to send us tips and corrections

By Pier Paolo Bozzano

On the Blackfeet Reservation, families learn to search for their own missing relatives

As Indigenous people go missing and are murdered at disproportionately high rates, families learn forensic skills to find their own loved ones.

Nora Mabie and Lauren Miller, Montana Free Press

Joseph M. Marshall III

Sing for the Red Dress

Murder mysteries and Indigenous knowledge: The legacy of Sicangu Oglala Lakota author Joseph M. Marshall III

Chana Kaplan, Buffalo's Fire

Janie Ducheneaux

Tribal leaders call for urgent action on public safety crisis

Buffalo’s Fire built an interactive map to track missing Indigenous people, and we need community help

By Pier Paolo Bozzano

On the Blackfeet Reservation, families learn to search for their own missing relatives

Nora Mabie and Lauren Miller, Montana Free Press

Other stories in Murdered & Missing Indigenous Peoples

Goodbye, cabin fever: Bismarck winter powwow promotes healing

Over 200 dancers participated in the 3rd annual Winter Jam Powwow

By Gabrielle Nelson

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Letting the silence speak: Behind the reporting on the Gathering of Nations Powwow

How we reported a story by listening to people and not quoting them

By Gabrielle Nelson

090725_DancersGRussellGilletteMemUTTC

Traditional Practices

What is a memorial at a powwow?

A powwow may feature several of these special events

RezFamousLem

Powwow food vendors essential to savoring the experience

Three Native businesses share how food connects them to family, community

By Gabrielle Nelson

UTTC International Powwow

Video Etiquette

A traveler’s guide to Powwows: Understanding protocol and respectful participation

Powwows dos and don'ts: UTTC International Powwow attendees share their rules for a fun and considerate event

Letting the silence speak: Behind the reporting on the Gathering of Nations Powwow

How we reported a story by listening to people and not quoting them

By Gabrielle Nelson

547945785_1545818603514800_1740635778829015175_n

Traditional Practices

What is a memorial at a powwow?

A powwow may feature several of these special events

090725_DancersGRussellGilletteMemUTTC

Powwow food vendors essential to savoring the experience

Three Native businesses share how food connects them to family, community

By Gabrielle Nelson

RezFamousLem

Video Etiquette

A traveler’s guide to Powwows: Understanding protocol and respectful participation

Powwows dos and don'ts: UTTC International Powwow attendees share their rules for a fun and considerate event

UTTC International Powwow

547945785_1545818603514800_1740635778829015175_n

Letting the silence speak: Behind the reporting on the Gathering of Nations Powwow

By Gabrielle Nelson

090725_DancersGRussellGilletteMemUTTC

Traditional Practices

What is a memorial at a powwow?

RezFamousLem

Powwow food vendors essential to savoring the experience

By Gabrielle Nelson

UTTC International Powwow

Video Etiquette

A traveler’s guide to Powwows: Understanding protocol and respectful participation

Other stories in Powwow

Beartooth Mountain Range, Montana

Natives in Montana weigh in on Roadless Rule repeal as public deadline approaches

Forest Service has honored less than half of formal consultation requests

By Bret Anne Serbin

Fort Peck Tribes ban discussions with data center developers

The vote comes amid mounting data center opposition in Montana, and as developers nationwide target tribal land for building

Nora Mabie, Montana Free Press

The Signal Peak Mine, located in the Bull Mountains west of Billings, is Montana’s only underground coal mine

Federal Government

Crow Tribe coal swap clears Senate committee

Land exchange benefitting Signal Peak Energy moves forward over Senate Democrats’ concerns

Tom Lutey, Montana Free Press

Energy Development

MHA Nation charts path to self-sufficiency by leveraging natural gas, data centers

Tribal leaders say natural gas, data centers and expanded infrastructure could help reduce long-term dependence on federal funding

Jacob Orledge, North Dakota Monitor

For Ethan One Feather, safety and security at 150th commemoration of Little Bighorn battle is top priority

Thousands of people, many on horses, expected to attend major historical and cultural event

Fort Peck Tribes ban discussions with data center developers

The vote comes amid mounting data center opposition in Montana, and as developers nationwide target tribal land for building

Nora Mabie, Montana Free Press

Federal Government

Crow Tribe coal swap clears Senate committee

Land exchange benefitting Signal Peak Energy moves forward over Senate Democrats’ concerns

Tom Lutey, Montana Free Press

The Signal Peak Mine, located in the Bull Mountains west of Billings, is Montana’s only underground coal mine

Energy Development

MHA Nation charts path to self-sufficiency by leveraging natural gas, data centers

Tribal leaders say natural gas, data centers and expanded infrastructure could help reduce long-term dependence on federal funding

Jacob Orledge, North Dakota Monitor

For Ethan One Feather, safety and security at 150th commemoration of Little Bighorn battle is top priority

Thousands of people, many on horses, expected to attend major historical and cultural event

Fort Peck Tribes ban discussions with data center developers

Nora Mabie, Montana Free Press

The Signal Peak Mine, located in the Bull Mountains west of Billings, is Montana’s only underground coal mine

Federal Government

Crow Tribe coal swap clears Senate committee

Tom Lutey, Montana Free Press

Energy Development

MHA Nation charts path to self-sufficiency by leveraging natural gas, data centers

Jacob Orledge, North Dakota Monitor

For Ethan One Feather, safety and security at 150th commemoration of Little Bighorn battle is top priority

Other stories in Land & Water

Safety &Justice

Major Crimes Act

Funeral announced for father and son killed in Fort Berthold shooting

Federal and tribal police continue investigation, four suspects in custody

By Shaun Griswold

Oglala Sioux Tribe finance meeting of June 4, 2026

Oglala Sioux Tribe facing fairness questions over banishment law

The policy aims to combat crime on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, but its effectiveness and a lack of a clear appeals process are drawing questions

Federal agencies and tribe partner to clear Pine Ridge Reservation’s ballistics testing backlog

Collaboration aims to move unsolved cases toward closure

John Hult, North Dakota Monitor

Camp Grafton

Tribal law enforcement academy, requested by South Dakota, will be located in North Dakota

News comes as part of new push from BIA to address violent crime in tribal areas

John Hult, North Dakota Searchlight

On national day of awareness, MMIP crisis takes center stage

Theater campaign involves dozens of Native organizations

Major Crimes Act

Funeral announced for father and son killed in Fort Berthold shooting

Federal and tribal police continue investigation, four suspects in custody

By Shaun Griswold

Oglala Sioux Tribe finance meeting of June 4, 2026

Oglala Sioux Tribe facing fairness questions over banishment law

The policy aims to combat crime on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, but its effectiveness and a lack of a clear appeals process are drawing questions

Federal agencies and tribe partner to clear Pine Ridge Reservation’s ballistics testing backlog

Collaboration aims to move unsolved cases toward closure

John Hult, North Dakota Monitor

Camp Grafton

Tribal law enforcement academy, requested by South Dakota, will be located in North Dakota

News comes as part of new push from BIA to address violent crime in tribal areas

John Hult, North Dakota Searchlight

On national day of awareness, MMIP crisis takes center stage

Theater campaign involves dozens of Native organizations

Major Crimes Act

Funeral announced for father and son killed in Fort Berthold shooting

Federal and tribal police continue investigation, four suspects in custody

By Shaun Griswold

Oglala Sioux Tribe finance meeting of June 4, 2026

Oglala Sioux Tribe facing fairness questions over banishment law

Federal agencies and tribe partner to clear Pine Ridge Reservation’s ballistics testing backlog

John Hult, North Dakota Monitor

Camp Grafton

Tribal law enforcement academy, requested by South Dakota, will be located in North Dakota

John Hult, North Dakota Searchlight

On national day of awareness, MMIP crisis takes center stage

Other stories in Safety &Justice

US Supreme Court sends North Dakota tribal redistricting case back for review

High court orders appeals court to reconsider tribal voting rights lawsuit after recent ruling changed standards for racial gerrymandering cases

Mary Steurer, North Dakota Monitor

Tribal Education

Cutting tribal college funding a threat to learning culture, self-determination, graduates say

At graduation on the Standing Rock Reservation, students said tribal colleges protect culture, close support

Mary Steurer, North Dakota Monitor

‘It’s about safety’: Broadband service uncertain as 150th anniversary of the Little Bighorn battle nears

Tourists, media, historians and tribal officials expected to drive up demand for high-speed internet during commemorative event

North Dakota tribal redistricting case still in limbo after Voting Rights Act decision

Supreme Court ruling did not settle whether private parties can sue under Section 2 in the tribes' map challenge

Mary Steurer, North Dakota Monitor

Standing Rock boy airlifted to hospital, student athletes charged with assault

Was there a culture of tolerance among school officials that allowed it to happen?

US Supreme Court sends North Dakota tribal redistricting case back for review

High court orders appeals court to reconsider tribal voting rights lawsuit after recent ruling changed standards for racial gerrymandering cases

Mary Steurer, North Dakota Monitor

Tribal Education

Cutting tribal college funding a threat to learning culture, self-determination, graduates say

At graduation on the Standing Rock Reservation, students said tribal colleges protect culture, close support

Mary Steurer, North Dakota Monitor

‘It’s about safety’: Broadband service uncertain as 150th anniversary of the Little Bighorn battle nears

Tourists, media, historians and tribal officials expected to drive up demand for high-speed internet during commemorative event

North Dakota tribal redistricting case still in limbo after Voting Rights Act decision

Supreme Court ruling did not settle whether private parties can sue under Section 2 in the tribes' map challenge

Mary Steurer, North Dakota Monitor

Standing Rock boy airlifted to hospital, student athletes charged with assault

Was there a culture of tolerance among school officials that allowed it to happen?

Tribal Education

Cutting tribal college funding a threat to learning culture, self-determination, graduates say

Mary Steurer, North Dakota Monitor

‘It’s about safety’: Broadband service uncertain as 150th anniversary of the Little Bighorn battle nears

North Dakota tribal redistricting case still in limbo after Voting Rights Act decision

Mary Steurer, North Dakota Monitor

Standing Rock boy airlifted to hospital, student athletes charged with assault

Other stories in Native Nations

Northern Plains

Free photo IDs available at North Dakota tribal nations ahead of election

Eligible North Dakota residents 18 and older without a driver’s license can receive nondriver photo IDs, which the department says are mailed within five days

Michael Achterling, North Dakota Monitor

Northern Cheyenne

Gene Small tapes over surveillance cameras at Northern Cheyenne headquarters

The tribe’s Capitol building has been closed since Small was removed as president: Why was he inside the building days later?

By Shaun Griswold

Tribal Government

Data center developments banned by Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council

The ban was resurrected from a 2025 proposal that stalled after the council was ousted

By Shaun Griswold

Technology and AI discussion in Eagle Butte addresses need for community control of data, facts and information

Rural Native communities need reliable news to stay on top of technology’s rapid growth

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Tribal Government

Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council wields its power after members return to office

The council authorized payments to Trustland Consultants and filled an open seat on the Northern Cheyenne Development Corporation

By Shaun Griswold

Free photo IDs available at North Dakota tribal nations ahead of election

Eligible North Dakota residents 18 and older without a driver’s license can receive nondriver photo IDs, which the department says are mailed within five days

Michael Achterling, North Dakota Monitor

Northern Cheyenne

Gene Small tapes over surveillance cameras at Northern Cheyenne headquarters

The tribe’s Capitol building has been closed since Small was removed as president: Why was he inside the building days later?

By Shaun Griswold

Tribal Government

Data center developments banned by Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council

The ban was resurrected from a 2025 proposal that stalled after the council was ousted

By Shaun Griswold

Technology and AI discussion in Eagle Butte addresses need for community control of data, facts and information

Rural Native communities need reliable news to stay on top of technology’s rapid growth

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Tribal Government

Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council wields its power after members return to office

The council authorized payments to Trustland Consultants and filled an open seat on the Northern Cheyenne Development Corporation

By Shaun Griswold

Northern Cheyenne

Gene Small tapes over surveillance cameras at Northern Cheyenne headquarters

By Shaun Griswold

Tribal Government

Data center developments banned by Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council

By Shaun Griswold

Technology and AI discussion in Eagle Butte addresses need for community control of data, facts and information

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Tribal Government

Northern Cheyenne Tribal Council wields its power after members return to office

By Shaun Griswold

Other stories in Northern Plains

Culture, Arts & Sports

Buffalo Restoration

‘Dupree’ sculpture honors Lakota family who helped save the buffalo

Ceremony recognized the legacy of Fred Dupree and Mary Good Elk Woman, whose family helped preserve the American bison for future generations

Ernestine Anunkasan Hopa, Native Sun News Today

Buffalo’s Fire to launch Little Bighorn Oral History Project to capture family stories

In 50 years, today’s youth will keep history alive at the 200th commemoration

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Young Man: The dog who made his own history at Greasy Grass

The little rez dog broke free from his lead and joined warriors on 300-mile journey to the Little Bighorn battlefield site

By Maria Hawkins

Letter from the Editor-in-Chief

Remembering the fallen warriors of Greasy Grass

Our Buffalo’s Fire Memorial Wall is open to descendants. Post your tribute and share your story

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Historic Commemoration

Historic Little Bighorn gathering aims to inspire Native youth, wake the spirit

New ideas still being accepted

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Buffalo’s Fire to launch Little Bighorn Oral History Project to capture family stories

In 50 years, today’s youth will keep history alive at the 200th commemoration

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Young Man: The dog who made his own history at Greasy Grass

The little rez dog broke free from his lead and joined warriors on 300-mile journey to the Little Bighorn battlefield site

By Maria Hawkins

Letter from the Editor-in-Chief

Remembering the fallen warriors of Greasy Grass

Our Buffalo’s Fire Memorial Wall is open to descendants. Post your tribute and share your story

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Historic Commemoration

Historic Little Bighorn gathering aims to inspire Native youth, wake the spirit

New ideas still being accepted

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Buffalo’s Fire to launch Little Bighorn Oral History Project to capture family stories

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Young Man: The dog who made his own history at Greasy Grass

By Maria Hawkins

Letter from the Editor-in-Chief

Remembering the fallen warriors of Greasy Grass

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Historic Commemoration

Historic Little Bighorn gathering aims to inspire Native youth, wake the spirit

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Other stories in Culture, Arts & Sports

Cultural Preservation

Reflecting on the cycle of life: Family photos transport mourners to a bygone era

Spotted Bear matriarch begins journey to the earth lodge villages

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Native administrators rail against Trump’s proposed elimination of funds for TCUs

The administration has attacked tribal education second year in a row

Black Hills uranium exploration permit hearing postponed to May

Drilling project’s opponents have raised concerns about Native American petroglyphs in Craven Canyon

Meghan O'Brien, South Dakota Searchlight

Legislators plan to learn about Native American health care, emergency services, disability care

Lawmakers establish task forces to study tribal Medicaid models, emergency service sustainability and disability waiver programs ahead of 2027

Makenzie Huber, South Dakota Searchlight

AIHEC conference honors TCU students with awards for art, sports, academics

Student Awards Banquet held last day of conference

By Gabrielle Nelson

Native administrators rail against Trump’s proposed elimination of funds for TCUs

The administration has attacked tribal education second year in a row

Black Hills uranium exploration permit hearing postponed to May

Drilling project’s opponents have raised concerns about Native American petroglyphs in Craven Canyon

Meghan O'Brien, South Dakota Searchlight

Legislators plan to learn about Native American health care, emergency services, disability care

Lawmakers establish task forces to study tribal Medicaid models, emergency service sustainability and disability waiver programs ahead of 2027

Makenzie Huber, South Dakota Searchlight

AIHEC conference honors TCU students with awards for art, sports, academics

Student Awards Banquet held last day of conference

By Gabrielle Nelson

Native administrators rail against Trump’s proposed elimination of funds for TCUs

Black Hills uranium exploration permit hearing postponed to May

Meghan O'Brien, South Dakota Searchlight

Legislators plan to learn about Native American health care, emergency services, disability care

Makenzie Huber, South Dakota Searchlight

AIHEC conference honors TCU students with awards for art, sports, academics

By Gabrielle Nelson

Other stories in Cultural Preservation

Indian Country needs media pillar for a just society

Civic information, data, local news strengthen Native communities

By Jodi Rave Spotted Bear

Billy Kirkland

Tribal leaders call for sovereignty as federal support wavers

At the June 3 Government to Government Conference in Bismarck, leaders said proposed federal funding cuts threaten education, safety

Mary Steurer, North Dakota Monitor

Experts discuss tribal sovereignty’s role in the growing hemp and cannabis industry

Great Lakes summit addresses recent Minnesota appeals court ruling saying possession is civil matter and the state lacks authority to prosecute tribal members on tribal lands

By Darren Thompson

Federal Politics

Trump dumps Noem, taps Mullin to be next DHS Secretary

If approved, Mullin would be second Native man to serve as U.S. Cabinet member

Proposed agriculture funding bill impacts more than 80,000 Native producers

63 provisions of the bill are relevant to tribes. ‘Economic stability and cultural responsibility’ at stake, says co-chair of Native Farm Bill Coalition

By Gabrielle Nelson

Tribal leaders call for sovereignty as federal support wavers

At the June 3 Government to Government Conference in Bismarck, leaders said proposed federal funding cuts threaten education, safety

Mary Steurer, North Dakota Monitor

Billy Kirkland

Experts discuss tribal sovereignty’s role in the growing hemp and cannabis industry

Great Lakes summit addresses recent Minnesota appeals court ruling saying possession is civil matter and the state lacks authority to prosecute tribal members on tribal lands

By Darren Thompson

Federal Politics

Trump dumps Noem, taps Mullin to be next DHS Secretary

If approved, Mullin would be second Native man to serve as U.S. Cabinet member

Proposed agriculture funding bill impacts more than 80,000 Native producers

63 provisions of the bill are relevant to tribes. ‘Economic stability and cultural responsibility’ at stake, says co-chair of Native Farm Bill Coalition

By Gabrielle Nelson

Billy Kirkland

Tribal leaders call for sovereignty as federal support wavers

Mary Steurer, North Dakota Monitor

Experts discuss tribal sovereignty’s role in the growing hemp and cannabis industry

By Darren Thompson

Federal Politics

Trump dumps Noem, taps Mullin to be next DHS Secretary

Proposed agriculture funding bill impacts more than 80,000 Native producers

By Gabrielle Nelson

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Tribal citizens stuck with an act, an IRA constitution they didn’t support

A community voice argues the 1934 Indian Reorganization Act and the Three Affiliated Tribes constitution were imposed, citing election participation and representation concerns

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Supreme Court should uphold sovereign status for Native nations in Voting Rights Act case

A North Dakota redistricting lawsuit raises whether private plaintiffs can enforce Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act through 42 USC § 1983

Supreme Court

Twin Buttes Powwow celebrates every child as a champion

Youth Night creates safe space for newcomers to the arena

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Vigil in Minneapolis

America is cracking

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Todd Hall

Tribal citizens stuck with an act, an IRA constitution they didn’t support

Supreme Court

Tribal Sovereignty

Supreme Court should uphold sovereign status for Native nations in Voting Rights Act case

Twin Buttes Powwow celebrates every child as a champion

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