Mobilize and empower Native Americans in MN with civic participation

Native Vote Alliance of Minnesota was created to fulfill a legacy that began with the first historical statewide "Get out the Native Vote" campaign in 2004. The "Minnesota Model" was developed through the 2004 initiative. The Minnesota Model means tribal communities stateOwide support an integrated strategy in election years to increase their members to vote in state and federal elections.

Other strategies institute education about accurate history of Indians in Minnesota and helping young people to understand what sovereignty means and how it is the foundation of each and every tribal entity in the U.S.

Thus far, Native Vote Alliance of Minnesota, has hosted in collaboration with the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe the 2nd Annual Youth Civic Camp. The camp was held at the Mille Lacs Band Ojibwe Language Camp from July 24 - 30.

Youth who participated were provided valuable teachings of sovereignty, history, a commemorative ceremony at Sandy Lake, a visit to the Wild Harvest Farm in Hugo, and a very valuable lesson of how diabetes negatively impacts our communities and how we may fight back.

Special appreciation goes out to the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe for their progressive leadership with educating and to the First Nations Development Institute for its generous grant in support of the Youth Civic Camp.