Red Lake Nation Flag Raised in Bemidji to Honor Legacy of Jourdain

Community members gathered at Bemidji City Hall on July 21, 2023, to honor the legacy of Roger A. Jourdain, the first tribal leader of the Red Lake Nation. This event precedes Roger A. Jourdain Day, which is celebrated annually on July 27, his birthday, by raising the Red Lake flag at the city hall. Given that July 27 falls on a Sunday this year, the flag was raised early and will remain until July 24.

Ceremony to Honor a Visionary Leader

The ceremony commenced with a prayer and a speech by Nate Taylor, a co-founder of the Endazhi-Nitaawiging Charter School and member of the Red Lake Band. “We come together to honor a great man,” Taylor stated, emphasizing the importance of recognizing all elements of creation in Anishinaabe culture. His prayer served to highlight the community’s respect for their traditions and history.

Following Taylor’s remarks, Mayor Jorge Prince read the original proclamation signed by former Bemidji Mayor Dave Larson in 2011 to declare this day a holiday in honor of Jourdain. The proclamation signifies the community’s commitment to recognizing the contributions made by Jourdain during his tenure.

Remembering a Legacy of Leadership

As the final speaker, Chelsey Jourdain, a community leader and great-granddaughter of Roger, reflected on his enduring impact. “We gather not to raise a flag, but to lift up a legacy,” she said, expressing pride in her heritage and the significance of the day. She described her great-grandfather as “more than a political leader” — a visionary and fierce advocate who fought for the sovereignty of his people.

Roger Jourdain was elected as Red Lake’s first tribal leader in 1959, serving for an impressive 31 years until his death in 2002 at the age of 89. His efforts were instrumental in securing Red Lake’s sovereign status and establishing essential community services, including the Minneapolis Indian Health Board and the Minnesota Indian Scholarship program. Under his leadership, the health and life expectancy of Red Lake Nation members improved significantly, increasing by approximately 20 years.

“His influence extended beyond our nation, rippling across Indian country and into Bemidji, a city that hasn’t always embraced native people,” Chelsey continued. “Chairman Jourdain showed up. He walked into rooms that weren’t built for us and made space for our voices.” She emphasized the importance of his teachings, which continue to resonate today, inspiring community members to lead with integrity and intention.

Chelsey concluded her speech with a memorable quote from her great-grandfather: “If you don’t know, ask.” She articulated that true leadership involves humility and a commitment to learning. The ceremony concluded with members of the Red Lake Nation Color Guard raising the flag as Taylor performed a drum song, symbolizing unity and shared heritage.

For those interested in learning more about Roger A. Jourdain and his contributions, the Red Lake Library offers access to archives that preserve tribal records and historical materials.