What tribe is in Red Make, MN?

Tucked away in the forests and lakes of northwestern Minnesota lies a tribal nation unlike any other in the United States—the Red Lake Nation, home of the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians. Rich in tradition, deeply rooted in its land, and fiercely independent, this tribe stands as a powerful symbol of Native resilience, culture, and self-determination.

Who Are the Red Lake Band of Chippewa?

The Red Lake Band is a federally recognized Ojibwe (also called Chippewa) tribe, one of the largest in Minnesota. The Ojibwe people have lived in the Great Lakes region for hundreds of years, with oral histories stretching back generations before European contact. Today, Red Lake is not only a community—it is a sovereign nation.

The tribe's main community is located around Red Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake entirely within Minnesota. The reservation includes Lower Red Lake entirely and a portion of Upper Red Lake, giving the tribe significant control over its waters and resources.

What Makes Red Lake Nation Unique?

Most reservations in the U.S. were divided and parceled out to individuals in the late 1800s under the federal Dawes Act, a policy that drastically reduced Native land ownership. But Red Lake said “no.”

The tribe refused to accept allotment, keeping its land in common ownership. As a result, Red Lake remains one of the few "closed reservations" in the country—no part of it has been lost to private ownership. This decision preserved not only land but tribal unity and governance.

Red Lake also opted out of Public Law 280, which gave states legal power over many reservations. That means Red Lake governs itself, running its own police, courts, and government programs without state interference.

A Strong and Independent Government

The Red Lake Nation is led by a tribal council that includes a chairman, secretary, treasurer, and district representatives. The council oversees everything from education and healthcare to business development. Traditional leadership is honored too—hereditary chiefs still serve in advisory roles, keeping cultural traditions alive.

One of the most famous leaders in Red Lake’s history is Roger Jourdain, who served as tribal chairman for over three decades. Under his leadership, Red Lake made strides in sovereignty, education, and economic development.

Keeping Culture and Language Alive

Red Lake is deeply committed to preserving Ojibwe language and traditions. Children learn the language in school, elders pass down stories and songs, and community members take part in seasonal ceremonies, powwows, and wild rice harvesting.

The tribe operates Red Lake Nation College, one of the few tribal colleges in Minnesota. It offers degrees with a strong focus on Native culture, empowering young people to build futures rooted in tradition.

Red Lake Today

More than 15,000 people are enrolled members of the Red Lake Nation, with about half living on the reservation. The community continues to grow while protecting its natural resources and developing tribal-owned businesses.

The tribe runs a successful fishery, forestry program, and Red Lake Nation Foods, a company that sells locally harvested wild rice, chokecherry jelly, and other traditional foods. Red Lake also operates Seven Clans Casinos, bringing in revenue to support education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

A Place of Pride and Resilience

Red Lake is more than just a point on the map—it’s a living, breathing story of strength, sovereignty, and cultural pride. In a country where so much Indigenous land was lost and so many voices silenced, Red Lake stands as a powerful reminder of what it means to endure and thrive on your own terms.