News from the Northern Plains

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North Dakota

News from North Dakota covering Native issues, politics, environment, education and more.

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A year without answers: Renzo Bullhead’s family encourages those with information to come forward

The college student went missing in North Dakota on March 16, 2025

Language Access

South Dakota governor signs Helen’s Law, requiring language translations in official state proceedings

By Darren Thompson

Daughter’s concern for father grows after 11 months without contact

‘Beyond frustrating’: Family claims they weren't properly notified about 16-year-old’s disappearance

Language Access

South Dakota governor signs Helen’s Law, requiring language translations in official state proceedings

Law named after fluent Lakota speaker Helen Red Feather

By Darren Thompson

Daughter’s concern for father grows after 11 months without contact

‘I just want to be able to hear my dad’s voice again,’ says Natasha-Marie Powassin

‘Beyond frustrating’: Family claims they weren't properly notified about 16-year-old’s disappearance

Mason Cree’s aunt learns he is missing through social media post

ShineThe Shine series explores limitations and solutions to government transparency in Indian Country.

Granddaughter searches for missing grandfather nearly 50 years after disappearance

Francis Houle went missing from the Colorado Springs area in 1979

Samantha Houle

MHA Nation appeals court upholds $250M withdrawal from People’s Fund

Ruling is a loss for transparency and justice, plaintiffs say

By Erin Hoover Barnett

Action & Policy

Multiple tribal organizations join MHA Nation in honoring two members of Congress

Senator Lisa Murkowski received a Mandan name, Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi presented with blanket

By Darren Thompson

Bheri Rose Hallam gives Senator Lisa Murkowski a Mandan name

Tribal Oversight

Proposed gas pipeline in North Dakota could help reduce Bakken flaring

MHA Nation and Standing Rock say they will monitor pipeline progress for water and environment impact

By Gabrielle Nelson

Standing Rock man assaulted hours before death by train

Hoksila Running Bear was struck by a train following months of threats. His mother seeks answers

Brittney Rough Surface and grand daughter

Chief deputy charged with unlawful arrests of Spirit Lake citizens to make court appearance Jan. 16

Travis Carlson was arrested in July following an investigation into the Benson County Sheriff’s Office

Benson County Deputy Chief Travis Carlson

Standing Rock Sioux Tribe distances itself from former chair’s endorsement of Kristi Noem

Following recent immigration actions by ICE, Chairman Sitting Bear emphasizes Janet Alkire’s support for former South Dakota governor was solely her own

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Native leaders in North Dakota urge use of tribal IDs, denounce ICE tactics

At least five Native people have been reportedly detained in Minneapolis by immigration authorities

Mary Steurer, North Dakota Monitor

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FBI investigating two weekend murders on North Dakota reservations

Suspects apprehended in both cases

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Food sovereignty

UTTC student raises $12k in food drive for North Dakota and Montana

Inspired by her grandparents, Tonah Fishinghawk-Chavez proves that caring for the community is an action, not just a word

By Gabrielle Nelson

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‘BlueJay’s Canoe’ tackles Native life during pandemic and wildfires

Dramatic play reveals power of Indigenous stories and community

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Indigenous voices speak loudly at Bismarck ‘No Kings’ rally

Thousands peacefully protest

By Gabrielle Nelson

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

For powwow vendors, art runs deeper than business

Three artisans at the UTTC International Powwow in Bismarck share their creative journeys

Cece Meadows and Lauren Good Day

Buffalo’s Fire and Prairie Public Radio link for live coverage at UTTC powwow

Radio collaboration highlights importance of cooperation in a season of funding cuts for local media

Brian Bull & Ann Alquist

United Tribes Legends Softball Hall of Fame welcomes three players and two teams

The ceremony also honored players who have passed

By Gabrielle Nelson

Softball Tournament