(TULSA, Okla.) When heartbreak and exhaustion collided back in 2009, Justin McLemore never imagined an impulsive idea that came to him after three sleepless nights would still be growing 16 years later. McLemore was working overnight shifts at Hillcrest Hospital in Tulsa, coping with the end of a marriage. One
This story is part of Crosswind News’ “Returning to Balance” Solutions Journalism Series. Using a solutions journalism approach, these stories highlight Indigenous led, culturally informed strategies to address challenges that disproportionately affect Native communities. "Returning to Balance" aims to inspire leaders, health organizations, and community members to consider
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But Oklahoma law enforcement is learning collaboration with tribal police can make a difference. Written By Carrie Johnson (PAULS VALLEY, Okla.) Faith Lindsey was 17 when she went missing. At the time, she was working at a Sonic drive-in and was in a difficult and contentious relationship. On October
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(TULSA, Okla.) Many Native American tribes located in Northeast Oklahoma were forced here from their ancestral homelands after the signing of the Indian Removal Act in 1830 and subsequent actions. This includes the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, whose reservation covers much of present-day Tulsa. Tulsa city limits also include the
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The 2025 Indigenous Roots American Indian History Symposium brought together 150 people from across Oklahoma and beyond to learn and build toward a stronger, more just, more inclusive future. From the opening prayer to the final words of reflection, community hearts carried every conversation, song, and shared meal. It was
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(CUSHING, Okla.) Indigenous reconciliation was front and center during a tour day Enbridge held with dozens of Tribal business leaders and professionals at their Cushing facility on October 8. Enbridge executives spoke with dozens of attendees from across the country about the company’s goals for continuing to work with
(TVLSE, Okla.) A new season has arrived for Verified News Network (VNN). After seven years of steady innovation and collaboration, the Native-owned, independent media organization VNN is embracing a powerful transformation, carried by the winds of change and guided by the same values that have grounded it since the
Photo Courtesy: Osage Nation Health This story is part of Crosswind News’ “Returning to Balance” Solutions Journalism Series. Using a solutions journalism approach, these stories highlight Indigenous led, culturally informed strategies to address challenges that disproportionately affect Native communities. "Returning to Balance" aims to inspire leaders, health organizations,
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Written By: Chelsea T. Hicks | Osage News (OSAGE RESERVATION) Candace Shelton is the granddaughter of full blood Osage Mary Elkins, and the daughter of Mary Jacqueline Elkins Shelton. Mary Elkins died young at the age of 30 in 1932, and Shelton has long wondered what happened to her grandmother. Read
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Written By: Frances Danger, Brittany Harlow, Russell Sun Eagle (TVLSE, Okla.) At Monday night's Tulsa Public Schools meeting, community members gathered to discuss the future of the Webster Warriors and Central Braves mascots. During the meeting, multiple heated exchanges took place as Native students and community members shared
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(TULSA, Okla.) Final preparations are underway for the 2025 Belle's Kitchen Cook-Off and Graduation, taking place Friday at 4 p.m. at Crossover Community Impact, located at 1010 E 36th St N in Tulsa. General attendees will watch the cook-off live and enjoy a dinner catered
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(GLENPOOL, Okla.) Excitement is building as the Yuchi Language Project prepares to host zOyaha Fest 2025, a two-day cultural gathering taking place this weekend in Glenpool. The free, family-friendly festival has quickly grown into one of Oklahoma’s most dynamic celebrations. offering a full weekend of games, art,