We are One MN: Standing United in Celebrating Community
Minnesotans are deeply concerned when we hear reports of Islamophobia, racism, and other forms of intolerance around our nation, abroad, and even in Minnesota. Anti-Muslim attitudes, acts of anti-Semitism, and growing fear of refugees from Syria and other troubled countries are increasingly finding expression in hateful speech, prejudice and even acts of violence in our state and beyond.
By engagemn	in Engage Minnesota	on March 18, 2016 March 19, 2016
By Multiple Authors, Community Leaders
Over the years, Minnesota has been at the forefront of welcoming refugees and other immigrants from around the world. In fact, most Minnesotans are themselves descendants of immigrants, including refugees who escaped war, persecution, or natural disasters in the lands from which they emigrated. This is part of the rich heritage of Minnesota we have long celebrated.
However, today Minnesotans are deeply concerned when we hear reports of Islamophobia, racism, and other forms of intolerance around our nation, abroad, and even in Minnesota. Anti-Muslim attitudes, acts of anti-Semitism, and growing fear of refugees from Syria and other troubled countries are increasingly finding expression in hateful speech, prejudice and even acts of violence in our state and beyond. Now is the time to reaffirm our solidarity with and support of all who live and work in our community, particularly for the newest Minnesotans among us. Our goal is to send a clear message that all are welcome in Minnesota and that we stand united against the intolerance and hostility that too many refugees and migrants have reportedly encountered in our state. As a community graced with a rich diversity of people, let us join together to celebrate We are One MN: Standing United in Celebrating Community.
We are One MN event details
When: Sunday, April 24, 2016, 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Where: Saint Paul RiverCenter, 175 W Kellogg Blvd, Saint Paul, MN 55102
What: Speakers, food, music, and spoken-word performances from many countries and cultures. Greetings from local, state, and national elected officials. The exhibit "Tents of Witness: Genocide and Conflict." Ethnic handicrafts, art, and books available for purchase. Art project. Videos of personal journeys of new and settled refugees in Minnesota.
The program is sponsored and supported by a number of state and local leaders from public and private sectors, including government agencies, faith communities, educational institutions, service clubs and immigrant support groups.
Your support is critical. Consider adding your name and that of your organization to our list of event sponsors. Then share the event widely with your memberships, constituencies, colleagues, friends, and family. Most importantly, join us in this important celebration and stand with us to celebrate community on April 24th.
Jessi Kingston, Director, Saint Paul Department of Human Rights and Equal Employment Opportunity
Ellen Kennedy, Executive Director, World Without Genocide at Mitchell Hamline School of Law
To add your name and that of your organization to our list of event sponsors contact:
Jef Yang
Section 3 Coordinator
CERT Certification Specialist
Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity
15 West Kellogg Blvd Suite 280
jef.yang@ci.stpaul.mn.us
Tags: Anti-Semitism, Engage Minnesota, Islamophobia, Minnesota Muslims, Syrian Refugees
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