Summary
In April 2024, a resolution was introduced in Minnesota’s 2024 legislative session by Representative Jamie Becker Finn & Senator Mary Kunesh to recognize the inherent rights of Manoomin/Psíŋ (Wild Rice) to exist, flourish, and regenerate, and that Wild Rice (Manoomin in Anishinaabe and Psíŋ in Dakota) is sacred and central to the culture and health of Indigenous Peoples in Minnesota as well as the ecosystems of Minnesota. The resolution seeks the Minnesota state legislature to commitment to passing Rights of Manoomin/Psíŋ legislation within the next two years. Proponents hope this resolution will help push the state legislature and courts to consider the harm to fresh water and this important grain in their decision-making.