Visitors to our historic and cultural sites learn about Minneapolis and Minnesota while driving economic and social prosperity, but do they tell the whole picture of our community? Join us as Sharon Sayles Belton moderates a conversation about that history and how it has impacted the disparities in our community with Robert Lilligren and Dr. Samuel Myers.

Featured Speakers:

Educational Links

To help keep the discussion going on the topics covered during this we want to provide some additional reading material from our speakers, Robert Lilligren and Dr. Samuel Meyers.

The Minnesota Paradox

On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a 46-year-old black man, was killed by a Minneapolis police officer during an arrest. In the wake of Floyd’s death, widespread protests occurred for several days in Minneapolis and St. Paul – both violent and non-violent – causing considerable damage to property. For a Midwest state known for being “nice,” it begs the question: How could this happen in Minnesota? Read More.

Reclaiming Native Truth

Reclaiming Native Truth is a national effort to foster cultural, social and policy change by empowering Native Americans to counter discrimination, invisibility and the dominant narratives that limit Native opportunity, access to justice, health and self-determination. The goal is to move hearts and minds toward greater respect, inclusion and social justice for Native Americans. Read More.

There, There by Tommy Orange

Tommy Orange’s wondrous and shattering bestselling novel follows twelve characters from Native communities: all traveling to the Big Oakland Powwow, all connected to one another in ways they may not yet realize.

Article: Minnesota is one of the best places to live in America. Unless you're Black.

The state's reputation belies some of the country's largest racial disparities. Opinion piece by Dr. Samuel Myers.