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Native News Online Celebrates 15 Years of Indigenous Journalism

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/14 .. elebrates-15-years-of-indigenous-journalism.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Saturday, February 14th 2026 at 0:37 GMT by Native News Online
      Locales: Oklahoma, South Dakota, Washington, UNITED STATES

Saturday, February 14th, 2026 - Today marks a significant milestone for Indigenous journalism as Native News Online celebrates its 15th anniversary. Founded in 2011, the platform has rapidly evolved from a simple weekly newsletter into a comprehensive, digitally-driven news source serving Native American and First Nations communities across the United States and Canada. The anniversary isn't just a commemoration of years passed, but a testament to the growing power of Indigenous-led storytelling and a crucial step towards media sovereignty.

In a media landscape often dominated by external narratives, Native News Online has consistently prioritized reporting by and for Indigenous peoples. Publisher Steve Russell emphasized this core principle, stating, "It's important to share information with our own communities, by our own people." This commitment has been the driving force behind the publication's success and its ability to connect with a readership deeply underserved by mainstream media. For decades, Indigenous communities have faced misrepresentation, stereotyping, and a lack of nuanced coverage in traditional news outlets. Native News Online directly addresses this historical imbalance.

The platform's reach extends far beyond simple news reporting. It tackles complex issues impacting Native nations, including - but not limited to - federal and provincial policies concerning tribal sovereignty, the critical battle for environmental justice in the face of resource extraction and climate change, efforts toward cultural preservation, and strategies for sustainable economic development. Its coverage of the lasting trauma inflicted by federal Indian boarding school policies has been particularly impactful, offering a space for truth-telling and reconciliation. The team's recent investigations into land rights disputes in the Dakota Access Pipeline region and the ongoing struggle for water rights in the Colorado River Basin demonstrate a commitment to in-depth, investigative journalism.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Native News Online served as a vital information lifeline for communities disproportionately affected by the virus. Providing crucial public health updates, dispelling misinformation, and highlighting the resilience of Native healthcare systems, the publication demonstrated its capacity to respond effectively to crises and serve as a trusted source of information during times of uncertainty. This role solidified its position as an essential service within many communities.

The growth of Native News Online reflects a larger trend of Indigenous media revitalization. Across North America, more and more tribes and First Nations are taking control of their own narratives through independent media outlets, radio stations, and digital platforms. This surge in Indigenous-led media is empowering communities to define themselves on their own terms, fostering self-determination and cultural pride. Experts point to increased access to digital technology and growing support from philanthropic organizations as key factors driving this movement.

The publication's non-profit business model is particularly noteworthy. Relying on donations and grants, Native News Online prioritizes journalistic integrity and community service over profit margins. This structure allows it to focus on covering stories that might be overlooked by for-profit media and to maintain its independence from external pressures. However, sustaining this model remains a challenge, requiring ongoing fundraising efforts and a dedicated base of supporters.

Looking ahead, Russell envisions continued expansion for Native News Online. "We've added more writers, more reporters and more voices. We're doing more video, more podcasts," he shared, hinting at plans to diversify its content offerings and reach wider audiences. The team is also exploring opportunities to collaborate with other Indigenous media organizations and to provide training and mentorship to aspiring Indigenous journalists.

The future of Indigenous journalism is bright, and Native News Online is poised to remain a leader in this evolving landscape. Its 15th anniversary is not just a celebration of the past, but a launchpad for a future where Indigenous voices are amplified, Indigenous stories are told with authenticity and respect, and Indigenous communities are empowered to shape their own narratives. The platform is actively seeking to expand its language coverage, bringing news and information to communities in their native tongues, recognizing the importance of linguistic preservation. Furthermore, they are piloting a program to embed journalists directly within tribal communities, fostering deeper relationships and more comprehensive reporting.