Weekly updates will be released to keep our Band Members updated on Tribal projects/ divisions and anything from the federal level that may impact us. Print versions of Friday updates will be available monthly in the DeBahJimon.
Employees and Community members can begin submitting news, events, and updates to be included in the week’s update every Monday. Updates can be sent to [email protected]
Chi Miigwech to everyone who submitted updates for this week. This week the band announced the broadband expansion project, dates for next week’s RBC briefing/the wellness center groundbreaking, and announced closures/events for Memorial day weekend.
Broadband expansion project
The Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe is launching a major broadband project, funded by an $18.7 million NTIA grant, to expand high-speed internet access across the reservation. The network will combine fiber-optic lines and 5G fixed wireless towers. Throughout May 2025, Tribal staff will attend Local Indian Council (LIC) meetings to present plans and gather community input on tower locations. Construction is set to begin in spring/summer 2026, with project completion expected by fall 2026. Community participation is encouraged to help guide the project. For questions, contact Tribal Planner Sally Fineday at [email protected]
RBC Briefing
The Leech Lake Reservation Business Committee will hold a special meeting beginning at 12:00 PM on Thursday, May 22 2025. Watch live or view the recorded version at: https://vimeo.com/event/5132732
Upcoming Closures
Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Government offices will be closed on Friday, May 23 for Native American Day and Monday, May 26, 2025 in observance of Memorial Day.
Regular office hours will resume on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 8:00AM.
Tribal Businesses and 24-hour programs will remain on their regular schedule.
Wellness Center Groundbreaking
The wellness center groundbreaking has been scheduled for May 28th, at 1pm in Cass Lake. More details will be available soon.
Court Appointed Attorneys and Advocates Needed – Leech Lake Tribal Court
The Leech Lake Tribal Court is seeking dedicated attorneys to represent indigent clients in child protection, family, and probate cases. Your expertise ensures fair legal representation for those who cannot afford private counsel.
Why Join Us?
- Flexible Caseload: Accept cases that fit your schedule.
- Competitive Compensation: Receive hourly rates and reimbursement for expenses.
- Professional Development: Enhance your court room experience and expand your practice. Access to free trainings.
- Community Impact: Play a vital role in upholding justice.
Requirements:
- Licensed and in good standing with the state bar.
- Licensed or willing to become a licensed Attorney or Advocate in Leech Lake Tribal Court .
- Commitment to ethical and diligent representation.
- Willingness to accept cases as appointed.
How to Apply:
For inquiries, contact the Leech Lake Court Administrator, Jackie Wright. [email protected] or 218-335-3682.
Northwest Minnesota Maternal and Child Health Summit Strengthens Regional Healthcare Partnerships
On April 29th, the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe Maternal Health Program hosted its biannual Northwest Minnesota Maternal and Child Health Summit, drawing a record attendance of over 30 healthcare professionals.
This gathering unites public health providers from Tribal Nations and county health departments to enhance maternal and child health services throughout the region. The 2025 summit saw unprecedented participation with representatives from White Earth Nation, Red Lake Nation, Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, Fond Du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, and public health departments from Itasca, Beltrami, and Cass Counties.
Gary Charwood, spiritual advisor for the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, opened the summit with a traditional smudging and prayer ceremony, setting a tone of cultural respect and collaboration. Amy Bowles, Beltrami County Public Health Director, presented updates on the Families First federal grant initiative, which addresses challenges contributing to adverse pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum outcomes in rural communities.
The summit featured practical demonstrations and cultural insights, including a car seat safety presentation by Katie Kelm, Maternal Child Health Program Manager for the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe. Dorene Day, respected Indigenous midwife, shared her spiritual journey and knowledge of traditional Indigenous birthing practices, highlighting the importance of culturally responsive maternal care.
Indian Trust Landowner Workshop
Monday, May 19, 2025
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Live Virtual Event – Attend from your own device or join a group viewing at one of the following locations:
Viewing Locations:
BIA – 2225 Cooperative Court NW, Bemidji, MN
BIA – 916 Lake Shore Dr W, Ashland, WI
White Earth RTC – 35500 Eagle View Rd, Ogema, MN
To register and receive the Zoom link, call: 218-206-0265
Light refreshments will be provided at viewing locations.
Hosted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Bureau of Trust Funds Administration
Talking Circle – Leech Lake Opiate Treatment Program
Every Monday
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
409 3rd St SE, Lower Level (East Side), Cass Lake, MN 56633
A welcoming space for connection, healing, and support.
Snacks provided
Hosted by the Leech Lake Opiate Treatment Program.
All are welcome to join.
Criminal Expungement Clinic
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Leech Lake Twin Cities Office
2438 27th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN
Need help clearing your criminal record? Come to our walk-in clinic hosted in partnership with the Volunteer Lawyers Network.
Minnesota state cases only.
Open cases or individuals on probation may not be eligible.
Questions? Call VLN at 612-752-6677 (Mon–Thurs, 10am–1pm)
32nd Annual Memorial Walk/Run
Thursday, May 22, 2025
Leech Lake Diabetes Fitness Center
Registration: 8:30 AM | Walk Begins: 9:00 AM
Join us for a morning of wellness and remembrance.
Light continental breakfast provided — fruit, bagels, coffee & water.
Blood pressure and blood glucose checks are available.
Sponsored by Leech Lake Diabetes Fitness Center, Leech Lake Market, and the Wiidookodaadiwag Program.
For more info, call (218) 335-2081
Memorial Day Traditional Pow Wow
May 23–25, 2025
Veterans Memorial Grounds – Cass Lake, MN
MCs: David Northbird Sr. & Terry Fiddler
Host Drums: Storm Crossing & Eagle Ridge
Committee Specials: Men’s & Women’s Fancy, Teen Boys & Girls
Family Specials include the Sibling Sidestep and Violet Humphrey Reyes Memorial
Questions? Contact Pow Wow Coordinator Rodney Johnson at
Cell: (218) 407-7265 | Office: (218) 335-3637 | 📧 [email protected]
No alcohol, drugs, or firearms permitted on the grounds. Weapons allowed for ceremonial use only.