Across Minnesota and the nation, educators find themselves on the front lines of a new kind of culture war—where questions of truth, inclusion, and identity in education are hotly contested. In this inspiring and pragmatic keynote, Dr. Anton Treuer calls educators to lead with courage and clarity, grounding their work in both heart and statute. He will unpack the Minnesota laws that mandate the delivery of language and culture in schools and highlight key changes in the state’s Indigenous education standards—all while offering practical strategies for fostering genuine equity and belonging beyond performative gestures. With examples from Ojibwe immersion schools, Indigenous revitalization efforts, and community-driven innovation, Treuer demonstrates how authentic cultural education strengthens not only Native students, but every student. This session is both a roadmap and a rallying cry: in challenging times, educators have the power—and the responsibility—to teach truth and build unity through understanding.

This is the keynote address for the Minnesota Education Association conference, registration required.