MPR: Red Lake Nation takes a small step towards legal marijuana


The Red Lake Nation council. Photo by Michael Meuers / Red Lake Nation

The Red Lake Nation could be the first tribe in Minnesota to legalize marijuana and hemp:
David Manuel, an enrolled member of Red Lake Nation and an advocate for producing marijuana, argues that the industry would provide an economic opportunity for Red Lake.

"It's about sovereignty, it's about being who we are and being in charge of our own destiny," Manuel said.

Red Lake Indian Reservation is the only closed reservation in the state and spans more than 1,200 square miles. Manuel said the tribe's large land holdings give it an advantage over other businesses that may seek to grow marijuana.

"We are Anishinaabe, we have a unique world view," Manuel said. "Personally, I'm asked to go gather medicines for my elders, and whoever is sick, out in the woods. These plants are medicine, and to not make these things available is criminal."

Get the Story:
Red Lake Band mulls growing marijuana legally following Justice ruling (Minnesota Public Radio 1/6)

Relevant Documents:
Policy Statement Regarding Marijuana Issues in Indian Country (October 2014)

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