Minnesota Native News Special Edition: COVID-19 Community Conversations

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

On this show, Host Leah Lemm reflects on the themes of rising to the challenge of the pandemic, respecting the virus, and coping with many unknowns. Leah is joined by reporter Melissa Townsend and together they review and reflect on some of their wonderful conversations with community members. [Read Transcript...]

State health officials are warning of a resurgence in vaping-related lung injuries that have similar symptoms to COVID-19. According to the Minnesota health department, there have been 11 suspected cases in the last two months of severe lung injuries associated with vaping. [Read Transcript...]

Host Leah Lemm explores how Indian Country in MN is responding and adapting to the current pandemic health crisis. On this show, we hear some nuts and bolts about COVID testing in Indian Country and current challenges our relatives face in getting treatment. And Leah looks at ways we embrace a healthy lifestyle while keeping … [Read Transcript...]

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. [Read Transcript...]