The Stearns History Museum is presenting a new exhibit, Why Treaties Matter: Self-Government in the Dakota and Ojibwe Nations.

The traveling exhibition offers an opportunity to learn more about the Native nations in Minnesota and the history of treaty-making with the United States. It relays Minnesota’s Native history in the voices of Dakota and Ojibwe people in this place once called “Mnisota.” It includes 20 freestanding panels and a 14-minute video, “A Day in the Life of Minnesota Tribal Nations.”

Many people believe the United States gave land to Native Americans, but the reverse is true. Under pressure, the tribal nations often gave up large portions of their homelands to retain reservations, small land areas for the exclusive use of their people and descendants. The United States promised to provide them with social, economic, and educational services in return. It’s a responsibility that continues today.

The exhibit runs during Stearns History Museum hours now through March 3.

Radio: We have more details at KVSC.org, visit the Area Events page.