Interview: Jim Northrup on importance of The Circle paper

Tuesday, December 13, 2011  

"What is the significance of The Circle newspaper? Why is it important for people to support Native journalism?

The Circle is important because it is a free press; one of the basics in the Bill Of Rights. On the reservation we have a newspaper, but they do not print letters to the editor nor opinion pieces that are critical of tribal government. The Golden Rule applies here: Them with the gold make the rules.

The Circle fills the informational needs of the Anishinaabeg and other tribes in its circulation area. I have been writing the Fond du Lac Follies for 22 years, in August it will be 23. I wanted to quit after 20 years but my wife suggested I go for 25.

You have a masterful way of weaving humor, history, and advice into your writing. How have you developed your skill over the years?

I think of what my readers want to read about, and the informational needs that are not being met by the mainstream media. The magic happens when I am rewriting and polishing the column. I read the final version out loud to my wife or any other relative I can capture, and sit down at the kitchen table. My ear is a better editor than my eye."

Get the Story:
Breakfast Conversations with Jim Northrup: The Circle Newspaper Fundraiser (The City Pages 12/12)