Sustainability is a way of life for Indigenous communities in Minnesota — and beyond. Unique Indigenous nations and cultures have survived over time in large part because of sustainable practices passed down through the generations. Across Minnesota, Indigenous communities’ connections to land, nature, language and culture honor the delicate balance between the past, present and future. In doing so, Native communities are ensuring their ways of life are viable today, and for the seven generations.

How exactly are Indigenous communities of Minnesota reclaiming their lands and cultures, and their dreams for the future? What challenges, both old and new, pose the greatest threats to ensuring sustainability for future generations of Native people in Minnesota?

In partnership with We Are Still Here Minnesota, MPR News presents In Focus: Sustainability in Indian Country, a conversation led by community leaders and moderated by Twila Dang, producer and cohost of MPR’s “small change: Money Stories from the Neighborhood” podcast.