The DMNA, along with the Falls Initiative, the Guthrie Theater, and the Native Advisory Council is moving forward with a Native Lands Acknowledgment Project. The purpose of the project is the following:
- To honor and recognize the indigenous residents who were the original stewards of the land along the Minneapolis riverfront.
- To develop a deeper, more meaningful, and respectful connection to the diverse and vibrant Native communities who call Minneapolis home.
- To bring more awareness of the rich history of indigenous people along the Minneapolis Riverfront.
- To share information regarding ways to support indigenous people who call Minneapolis home.
The project will include the installation of signage in the Mill District and along the Minneapolis Riverfront that tells residents and visitors alike that they are living, working, and enjoying what was originally land settled by Native Americans. The signage is being designed by Adrienne Zimiga-January, a member of the Guthrie Theater’s Native Advisory Council. The Council includes representation from seven Native Nations. The project will culminate with the installation of the signage in the spring of 2023 and a celebratory event.
The committee working on this important project recently presented three different design options for the signage at a gathering of Native elders at the Division of Indian Work. The elders were supportive of the project and gave their approval to move forward.
A second outreach meeting was held at Little Earth, and the feedback from the elders was also positive. Photos from that event are below:
