Legs for Land Back

ReNew Earth Running

Legs for Land Back

We use movement to protect and heal sacred ecosystems by supporting Indigenous sovereignty, leadership and environmental stewardship.

Minneapolis, MN, USA

United States

Nonprofit

ReNew Earth Running addresses the urgent need to protect sacred ecosystems through Indigenous sovereignty and environmental stewardship. Indigenous Peoples steward 80% of the world’s remaining biodiversity, yet they continue to face dispossession and underfunded Land Back efforts. In Minnesota and beyond, land continues to be occupied, polluted, and mismanaged—often without Indigenous consultation. Climate change, habitat loss, and water contamination disproportionately impact Indigenous communities, yet their voices are often sidelined. Our work meets this challenge by using movement—particularly running—as a tool to reconnect with the land, amplify Indigenous leadership, and educate allies. Through events, workshops, and community-led programming, we support Land Back initiatives and foster reciprocal relationships with nature. Globally, over 476 million Indigenous people face barriers to reclaiming and protecting their homelands. Locally, Minnesota is home to 11 Tribal Nations, many of whom are actively leading environmental restoration. Our solution uplifts their efforts, expands access to land and traditional knowledge, and mobilizes both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people toward environmental justice rooted in Indigenous values.

ReNew Earth Running is a community-powered movement that uses running and outdoor gatherings to support Indigenous-led land stewardship. Our solution is simple: we connect people to the land through movement, education, and direct support for Land Back initiatives. We host seasonal workshops, cultural events, and monthly community runs that center Indigenous teachings and deepen our relationship with nature. Our Run Team, made up of Indigenous and non-Indigenous runners, raises awareness and funds for Indigenous land and environmental projects. Through our Land Back Program, we invite Indigenous-led organizations to lead workshops that educate the broader community and inspire action. While we use basic technology—such as GPS tracking for fundraising runs, virtual racing platforms, social media for outreach, and video conferencing for remote learning—our greatest tools are community, culture, and collective movement. Our all-Indigenous leadership team ensures every program is rooted in traditional knowledge and values. By combining physical activity with education and activism, we offer a tangible, accessible way for people to engage with Indigenous sovereignty and environmental justice—step by step.

ReNew Earth Running serves Indigenous communities and non-Indigenous allies who seek meaningful ways to engage with land, culture, and environmental justice. Indigenous Peoples are often underserved in outdoor and environmental spaces—facing barriers to land access, underfunded Land Back efforts, and limited representation in leadership. Our solution directly supports Indigenous communities by centering their voices, knowledge, and leadership in all programming. All leadership roles are held by Indigenous women, and our Board represents diverse Nations across Turtle Island. Through workshops, runs, and educational events, we provide spaces where Indigenous people can reconnect with the land, share cultural knowledge, and lead community action. Our programs are free or low-cost, reducing financial barriers. We also uplift Indigenous-led organizations through fundraising, awareness campaigns, and platform-sharing. Non-Indigenous allies are invited to learn, reflect, and take action in solidarity—addressing the widespread lack of education around Land Back and the historical erasure of Indigenous stewardship. Our model fosters real relationships, cultural respect, and shared responsibility for the land. Together, we’re building a more just, reciprocal future for people and the planet.