NUIFC NEWSLETTER // MIGIZI - A story of perseverance & dedication to our youth

Join us as we explore the journey MIGIZI has embarked on as they navigate the crisis they underwent in 2020 to now

During the summer of 2020, tragedy struck in south Minneapolis, when MIGIZI, one of the older Native non-profits in the area, was destroyed in a fire. The story of what came next is one of resilience and persistence that culminated earlier this year at their Grand Re-Opening on October 5th, 2023, and we are thrilled to be able to share that story with you in this issue of the NUIFC eNewsletter.

“MIGIZI,” whose name translates to the bald eagle in Anishinaabemowin, means committing to the high standards that the bird signifies. This non-profit nurtures the development of American Indian youth educationally, socially, and culturally since its doors opened in 1977, originally as Migizi Communications, Inc. with the mission of countering misrepresentations and inaccuracies about Native people in the media. Since then - MIGIZI has expanded its services as innovators in emerging industries, providing engaging endeavors that foster professional careers, as well as social and emotional well-being for our youth.

Fast forward more than 40 years to September 12th, 2019, and MIGIZI stood strong in the heart of Minneapolis’ urban Indian community. In fact, this is when MIGIZI’s former home held its grand opening after raising more than $1.6 million to purchase and renovate their new property. An amazing day that was enjoyed alongside the community and supporters of this organization.

Only eight months later MIGIZI lost its entire building to a fire.

This fire, while not a targeted act of arson, was a result of the civil unrest in Minneapolis. In MIGIZI fashion, their board of directors released a statement that spoke to the racial injustices in the city and positioned themselves in solidarity with Minneapolis’ outcries during that time. While unsure of how to recover from such a tragic loss, they found themselves in disbelief at how quickly the community banded together to clean out the fallen building and raised more than $2.5 million in donations. 

A building once engulfed in flames, was now engulfed in support, physically, and fiscally. MIGIZI purchased a new building with the $2.5 million raised in January of 2021, this money allowed for the purchase and initial development of a one-of-a-kind urban center that honors the Earth, community, and future leaders.

This leads us to October 5th, 2023, the grand re-opening of MIGIZI. The evening’s rain did nothing to dampen the spirits of the 500 people in attendance. Opening the evening’s activities was a blessing from a group of jingle dress dancers and songs from the Little Earth Singers, followed by a prayer led by Wakinyan and Thorne LaPointe. 

The evening was full of laughter and excitement shared by a diverse group of community members ranging from MIGIZI board members sharing their perspective of the journey to honored city officials sharing welcoming messages. 

“Rising from the ashes… that’s how we always spoke about it,” said Binesikwe Means, MIGIZI’s lead media instructor. 

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey gave his respects to the “strength and resilience of the Native American community,” while attending the event.

Attendees walked away feeling proud and excited, a testament to the organization’s dedication to fostering healthy pathways for our children.

To learn more about MIGIZI’s programming and staff, please visit their website.