Acknowledgement and Action

We acknowledge our presence in Minneapolis, near Wakpá Tháŋka (the Mississippi River) and Bdoté—the sacred confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota Rivers, central to Dakota creation stories. This land, Mni Sota Makoce, is the homeland of the Dakota and Anishinaabe peoples. Despite generations of forced displacement, Indigenous Peoples continue to live, lead, and thrive here.

A land acknowledgment must drive action. At the Better Way Foundation, our grantmaking supports Indigenous organizations that place language and culture at the heart of education. We are also increasingly aligning our investments with Indigenous communities, advancing economic and social self-determination.

True partnership requires humility and learning. While based in Minneapolis, the foundation’s staff, Board members, and committee members reside in diverse communities across the country and around the world. As an organization and as individuals, we commit to deepening our understanding of the histories and heritages of the communities we call home, as well as those where our partners live and serve. Through listening and learning, we strive to be more effective allies and advocates.

Our partners lead transformative work, from revitalizing languages to creating culturally grounded education that strengthens identity and pride for future generations. We are committed to amplifying their voices, leadership, and self-determination—advancing justice, healing, and reconciliation.