Tribal Sovereignty and the Health of Native Communities

Host Leah Lemm explores how Indian Country in MN is responding and adapting to the current pandemic health crisis.

In this show, Leah welcomes Lyz Jaakola, an Anishinaabe mother, teacher, and musician living on her home Rez, Fond du Lac in Cloquet, MN. They reflect on the relationship between the federal government and tribes –and how it affects the health and economic well-being of tribal communities during the pandemic.

Reporter Melissa Townsend talks with U.S. Senator Tina Smith about her recent speech on the floor of the Senate, where she urged Congress and the President to make good on treaty and trust responsibilities to Native America, specifically about money allocated by the CARES Act, which has been slow in reaching tribes. Minnesota Senator Tina Smith (D) is a member of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee.

Lyz Jaakola shares her perspectives on how COVID-19 and highlights long-held misunderstandings around tribal sovereignty and treaty promises, which can directly impact the health and well-being of community members.