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Bemijigamaag Powwow draws a vibrant mix of community

sprig by Posted in Grants, Rural Capacity Building

A catalyst for learning. An opportunity to give voice to a seldom-heard community group. A chance to follow a community conversation, aligning energy and resources toward a goal in which numerous partners could see themselves and their roles.

As with much of Northern Community Radio’s (NCR) work, the Bemijigamaag Powwow, held this past weekend at the Sanford Center in Bemidji, exemplified the organization’s ability to connect across many community lines.

NCR, an independent, nonprofit organization that operates two community-based public radio stations in northern Minnesota, tapped existing interests to forge a strong collaboration between the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwa, Red Lake Band of Objibwa and White Earth Ojibwa Nation, community members and government officials to make a difference in the community’s perception of Ojibwe culture.

“[The powwow is] part of the healing that’s needed in that community. We had a sense that this needs to happen, that this is the right event at the right time,” said Northern Community Radio’s general manager Maggie Montgomery.

Attending the event, Blandin Foundation president, and White Earth Band member, Kathy Annette said, “It was wonderful to see the people of Red lake, White Earth, Leech Lake, Bemidji and surrounding communities to come together to share this cultural experience. It was a good day!”

For vibrant images and NCR’s recording of the event, visit Northern Community Radio’s website.

Photo Credit: Northern Community Radio

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