November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich histories, vibrant cultures, and enduring contributions of Indigenous peoples across Minnesota and throughout the country.
Minnesota is home to 11 sovereign Tribal Nations, each with its own distinct history, culture, and government. Native peoples have shaped this region for generations and continue to enrich our communities through art, language, leadership, innovation, and storytelling.
At Minnesota PBS, we believe stories have the power to deepen understanding, foster connection, and bring new perspectives to light. We're committed to elevating Indigenous voices and sharing stories that reflect the diverse experiences of Native communities, not only during Native American Heritage Month, but throughout the year.
Stories of Resilience, Identity, and Hope
This November, we're proud to present Medicine Ball, a new documentary from Minnesota PBS filmmaker Leya Hale.
Premiering locally and nationally on PBS on November 9, Medicine Ball follows Native college basketball players Lexus Redthunder and Leroy Staples-Fairbanks IV at the University of Minnesota Morris, a campus located on the site of a former Native American boarding school.
Through their journeys, the film explores the intersection of a painful history and a powerful cultural tradition. Basketball emerges as more than a game. It's a source of connection, identity, resilience, and hope for Native athletes and their communities.
The documentary offers an opportunity to reflect on the past while celebrating the determination, strength, and aspirations of a new generation.
Watch the preview
Discover Minnesota's First Nations
One of the most meaningful ways to recognize Native American Heritage Month is to learn directly from Indigenous voices and explore the histories and cultures of Minnesota's Tribal Nations.
Our fellow public media station, PBS North, offers an engaging way to do just that through its Minnesota First Nations project.
This interactive educational resource brings Indigenous stories, culture, and leadership to life through:
- An interactive map connecting Minnesota's First Nations with videos and educational resources.
- More than 20 Native Report video segments exploring Indigenous art, language, culture, and sovereignty.
- Stories of contemporary Native communities highlighting cultural traditions, environmental stewardship, education, and leadership.
- Educational resources and lesson plans designed to help students, educators, and lifelong learners deepen their understanding.
From Dakota poetry and Ojibwe language revitalization to contemporary art and cultural traditions, the project celebrates the knowledge, creativity, and resilience of Indigenous communities across Minnesota.
As we honor Native American Heritage Month, Minnesota PBS remains committed to sharing Indigenous stories and perspectives that strengthen our understanding of the communities we serve.