This year marks 40 years that Indigenous journalists have worked to support and sustain NAJA. Originally formed as the Native American Press Association in 1983, the name changed in 1990, to be more inclusive of broadcast journalists. The organization has grown from just a handful of reporters to a membership of nearly 1,000, which includes Indigenous journalists, funders, educators and partners across the United States and Canada.

“I’m honored that the board voted in favor of bringing NAJA back to its roots. We have been floating the idea of hosting the conference in Canada again since 2019. This organization was founded by journalists from both sides of the medicine line and I am proud to see us carry on that legacy,” NAJA President Francine Compton said.

Winnipeg is home to Compton and a place that became a cornerstone of Indigenous journalism.

“A foundation was built here by APTN and CBC Indigenous. I can’t wait for everyone to see that. I look forward to hosting our members and industry friends in Winnipeg in 2023,” she said.