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Letter from the Publisher

Today is World Press Freedom Day, which celebrates the importance of news and information as a public good—while leaving no one behind.

Recent events around the world in Ukraine and Gaza have demonstrated the importance of having a free press that is allowed to be in harm's way in order to report on the devastating impact of brutal wars.

Closer to home, Native News Online covers important issues that impact the lives of Native Americans, including health equity issues and the generational impact of Indian boarding school on our people. This week, we are bringing focus to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) crisis in commemoration of National Missing and Murdered Indigenous People Day on Sunday, May 5.

This year, Native News Online will also be covering the very consequential presidential election. 

Covering these important stories, as with others covered by Native News Onlineis made possible because of the fundamental right of the freedom of the press that exists in the United States.

Freedom of the press makes this possible on a high level. At the practical level, your financial support allows us to put this freedom to work. Reader donations— whether $5 or $500—fund our editors, reporters, and photographers.

As a valued Native News Online supporter and reader, please consider making a donation today to celebrate World Press Freedom Day. Your generosity will help Native News Online uphold its mission to provide accurate, timely and free news to Indian Country and non-Natives communities. Please donate today. 


Megwetch,
 
Levi Rickert
Editor and Publisher

 

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Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?

Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.

Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.

Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today. 

Right now, your support goes twice as far. Thanks to a generous $35,000 matching fund, every dollar you give during December 2024 will be doubled to protect sovereignty and amplify Native voices.

No paywalls. No corporate owners. Just independent, Indigenous journalism.

About The Author
Levi Rickert
Author: Levi RickertEmail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Levi "Calm Before the Storm" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at [email protected].