At the Robbinsdale Area Schools Board Business Meeting on September 23, 2025, a powerful land acknowledgment set the tone for the evening. Board members recognized the district's location on the ancestral homelands of the Dakota and Ojibwe peoples, highlighting the painful history of genocide and forced assimilation faced by these indigenous communities.
The acknowledgment emphasized the board's commitment to honoring and respecting the indigenous peoples who continue to live on and cherish these lands. It also underscored the importance of preserving Dakota and Ojibwe languages, promoting land-based education, and supporting tribal sovereignty.
This statement not only reflects a growing awareness of historical injustices but also signals the board's dedication to fostering inclusivity and respect within the educational environment. As discussions continue, the board aims to integrate these values into their policies and practices, ensuring that the voices of indigenous communities are heard and respected in the Robbinsdale Area Schools.