MPR: Growing Up Indian

March 21, 2006, marks the one-year anniversary of the school shootings that left 10 people dead on the Red Lake Indian Reservation. The shootings brought national attention to the economic and social problems plaguing Indian Country. American Indians are at the bottom of nearly every national indicator of well-being. Indians commit suicide at twice the rate of the general population. They're more likely to be poor, have health problems or die violently. Alcohol and drugs have ripped apart Native families. Often, the kids suffer most.

By Dan Gunderson and Tom Robertson, Minnesota Public Radio
March 2006

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Brandon Humphrey: Killed Brandon Humphrey was looking forward to his 18th birthday. His family threw a party for him, but he wasn't there.	David Eischens: Imprisoned David Eischens has spent most of his young life in jail or prison.	Moon Roberts: Suicide A young man who seemed destined to be a leader is overwhelmed by the burden.	Michael Littlewolf: Killed After years of crime and gang activity, Michael Littlewolf decided to straighten up. That decision cost him his life.

		Higher incarceration rates Lower graduation rates Higher dropout rates Higher death rates Background on the issues facing Indian communities, and links to groups that provide assistance. (More) Is growing up Native American different from growing up black, white, Asian or Latino? In what ways? Share your thoughts. Read what others have to say. White Earth Tribal Judge Anita Fineday says she sees many bright spots on the reservation. Read her commentary. Cass Lake community struggles with increase in violence What happened at Red Lake? Rekindling the Spirit: The rebirth of American Indian Spirituality Broken Trust: Civil rights in Indian Country Producers: Dan Gunderson and Tom Robertson Broadcast editor: Kate Smith Online editor: Melanie Sommer Web design: Ben Tesch Researcher: Betsy Cole
The deep roots of social breakdown Tribal elders blame the boarding school era for ripping apart the social fabric of Indian communities.	The huge influence of gangs Gangs are a big problem on Indian reservations. Young boys often look up to gang members as their only role models.


Bryce Hanks: Dreaming big He wants to prove there's more to White Earth than dropping out and drinking.	Recovery for a community For many, the way to fix problems in Indian Country is through culture and tradition.

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