Barbecue Protest in Bemidji

(AP) First, it was going to be illegal fishing. Now, some members of the Leech Lake and White Earth Chippewa Bands are planning a barbecue and treaty rights presentation in Bemidji a week from today.

The protest, the day before the walleye-fishing opener, is designed to press their rights under an 1855 treaty.

The bands believe they hold off-reservation hunting, fishing, gathering and other rights across a large section of northern Minnesota under the treaty.

Tribal leaders oppose the protest. They are urging diplomacy.

The forum will be at Diamond Point Park Pavilion on Lake Bemidji from 1 to 3 p.m.