📅 Saturday, October 11, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Bemidji State University, Beaux Arts Ballroom

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Event Highlights

🌿 Panel Discussions

• Bridging the Gap: Connecting Northern Minnesota and the Twin Cities
  Exploring how communities can strengthen relationships, share resources, and build solidarity across regions.

• Community Voices & Policy: Past, Present & Future
  Leaders and community members reflect on past challenges, current efforts, and opportunities for policy change.

• Youth Leadership
  Centering the next generation of leaders as they share their perspectives, visions, and hopes for stronger, healthier communities.

🌿 Keynote Speaker – Dr. Baez
Dr. Baez will introduce the Sweetgrass Method, a culturally responsive framework that braids Indigenous Ways of Knowing with Western practices to improve outcomes in areas such as mental health and addiction. Bemidji State's Dr. Baez leads mental health work for Indigenous communities

🌿 Community Meal (Noon)
A free meal will be provided to all participants — a time to connect, share, and build relationships.

🌿 Resource Tables
Local and regional organizations will be present with information, services, and opportunities for collaboration.

🌿 Community Spotlight
An afternoon celebration of music and culture, featuring performances from local musicians and drum groups, highlighting the strength and creativity within our communities.

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Media Coverage of OVR 2024: 'Our Voices Restored' in Bemidji Encourages Native Americans to Vote | Lakeland News - YouTube 

 

This event is free and open to all.

📩 Questions? Email Thomas.Sorenson@nativedefense.org