WINNER: 2018 NNPA MERIT AWARDS: 3RD PLACE BES T COLUMN WRITING
WINNER: 2019 GENERAL EXCELLENCE, 3RD PLACE, COLUMN WRITING, 2ND PLACE
Insight News
January 13, 2020 - January 19, 2020
Vol. 47 No. 2• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
ENOUGH! Illustration by Donald Walker
STORY ON PAGE 2
Page 2 • January 13, 2020 - January 19, 2020 • Insight News
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Black lives matter … all the time By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor harry@insightnews.com There were 48 killings in Minneapolis in 2019. Monique Baugh, 28, was the last. There were 30 killings in St. Paul in 2019. Sadly, New Year’s Day brought the capital city its first of 2020. Hopefully it will be the last. Just a decade ago in 2009 Minneapolis was site to 19 murders; St. Paul 13. Collectively that’s 32 too many. And while 32 killings are too many, 78 – 48 in Minneapolis and 30 in St. Paul – is not only too many, it’s a crisis. Nothing underscored the crisis level of violence more than the senseless and brutal slaying of Baugh. A 28-year-old realtor, Baugh was kidnapped, tortured and killed as part of an elaborate, yet ill-conceived robbery plot, according to police. Believing she was showing a home to a potential buyer on New Year’s Eve, the mother of two was gunned down – her body dumped in an alley – as the father of her children suffered from multiple gun shots at the couple’s home. It is alleged that one of Baugh’s children witnessed the shooting of the father. A vivacious and hardworking mother and realtor trying to earn an honest living was killed in the most heinous of ways and her child had to bear witness to the attempted murder of his father. And for what? This wave of violence cannot become the new norm. Thankfully, we broke from the ways of the 1990s when the area was hit with an influx of drugs and guns in an era that’s referred to as “Murderapolis.” We cannot … must not … allow for the moniker to return. These are not just numbers – 48 and 30 – these
Harry Colbert, Jr.
Flanked by leaders and community organizers, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey speaks out against the senseless killing of Monique Baugh during a Jan. 3 press conference at Minneapolis City Hall. are people no longer with us in the flesh. They were sons, daughters, brothers, sisters and best friends. They were fathers and mothers. Monique’s two children are now motherless. No more. We are beyond enough is enough. The same way we stand up against out of control police brutalizing our community we stand up against everyone victimizing our community. It’s not enough to just “see something, say something” it’s time … past time … that we do something. We must be present in our schools. We must be present at our neighborhood association meetings. We must be present at city council meetings. We must be present at our mayors’ offices. Most important, we must be present on the streets, building authentic connections with those most apt to perpetrate (and therefore, most apt to come victim to) acts of violence. And understand, all are not suited for the latter, thus, we must support those who are. We have organizations working at the most intimate level to stem the tide of violence, but these individuals and organizations need our support, including monetary support. Why fund some of these large, often
disconnect philanthropic organizations when we can cut out the middleman and go directly to the source? Again, we are at crisis level. All hands must be on deck. Whether we live in Plymouth, Maplewood, Maple Grove, East St. Paul or North Minneapolis, this is our community, and all are too valuable to lose. Intergenerational Healing Circle: Addressing and healing from generational trauma Dr. BraVada GarrettAkinsanya of the Brakins Consulting/African American Child Wellness Institute will facilitate a healing circle this Wednesday (Jan. 15) from 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the University of Minnesota Research and Outreach-Engagement Center (UROC), 2001 Plymouth Ave. N. Minneapolis. The community roundtable addresses the generational trauma that is so prominent in the AfricanAmerican community. Conversations on where we’ve been and suggestions on how to implement solutions that address generational concerns will be discussed. Admission is free and dinner is provided. RSVP online at https://tinyurl.com/syb6mmk.
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Insight News • January 13, 2020 - January 19, 2020 • Page 3
Insight News
WINNER: 2019 GENERAL EXCELLENCE, 3RD PLACE, COLUMN WRITING, 2ND PLACE
WINNER: 2018 NNPA MERIT AWARDS: 3RD PLACE BES T COLUMN WRITING
January 13, 2020 - January 19, 2020
Vol. 47 No. 2• The Journal For Community News, Business & The Arts • insightnews.com
Community leaders react to footage of alleged police brutality where a young woman was tasered nearly a minute and a half
‘A police riot’ By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor harry@insightnews.com Disturbing and hard to watch. That was the reaction from most in the room when video footage of an Aug. 11, 2019 incident involving Minneapolis Police and a North Minneapolis family was shown to media and community members during a Jan. 7 press conference at the Minneapolis Urban League. The video shows police tasering Champaign Hale, 28, for nearly one minute straight as Hale is on the ground pleading with the officer to stop. Her brother, Lee Evans, 29, already in handcuffs (Evans was immediately cuffed when Hale was initially tasered, even though he had not at that moment tried to intervene in the confrontation), was also tasered multiple times as he tried to shield his sister from the agonizing jolts of electricity. Now with Hale, Evans and a third sister, Brandy Adams, 33, facing 18 counts in total including felony assault on a police officer (Hale and Evans), community leaders and activists are calling for those charges to be dropped and instead have the officers involved brought up on criminal charges. “What we saw was misconduct,” said Michelle Gross of Communities United Against Police Brutality. “These were long, uninterrupted (streams of electricity) meant only to inflict maximum pain. And let’s remember, a taser isn’t a non-lethal weapon, it’s a less lethal weapon. Countless people have died from being tasered.
Again, this was criminal conduct on behalf of the officers.” Officers Sean Hyman and Ty Jindra both deployed tasers – Hyman on Hale and Evans and Jindra on Hale. According to Hyman’s taser log, he actively deployed his weapon for a total of 88 seconds – most directed at Hale. In another jarring segment, Adams is taken from inside the home and then – while handcuffed – shoved off the elevated porch, being hurled face-first into a chain-link fence. The officer who shoved Adams off the elevated porch, Jindra, wrote in his sworn statement that, “As we walked up the stairs and got to the top, (Adams) began kicking her feet back into me, kicking me several times in the shins. I then pushed her away from me, and as she was extremely intoxicated she fell forward out off the house and onto the ground.” Upon review of body-camera footage from both Jindra and Hyman his statement appears to be contradicted with the footage; especially his own, which shows Adams’ feet walking forward up the stairs and not kicking back as Jindra wrote. Community organizer Al Flowers was visibly emotional when discussing the incident. “I could only watch three minutes,” said Flowers, of the videos, which are more than 16 minutes in duration. “And Lee … Lee was trying to protect his sister. He did nothing wrong. Now y’all see the video to prove it.” Flowers said the incident captured on camera brought back painful
Toni Carter
Toni Carter elected Chair of Ramsey County Board of Commissioners Minneapolis Police Department
Lee Evans was tasered multiple times by Minneapolis Police during an Aug. 11, 2019 incident. Evans, who said he was protecting his sister from police abuse, is now charged with assault on a police officer. memories of his encounter with Minneapolis Police. In July of 2014 Flowers said he was beaten unconscious by Minneapolis police attempting to serve a search warrant on his then minor daughter. In that incident Flowers was charged with assault on an officer, but the Hennepin County attorney refused to try the case. Flowers later settled a civil suit against the department. Gross said the prosecution against the three siblings in the Aug. 11 incident is malicious and an effort to avoid another costly city payout. “According to law, if they (Adams, Evans and Hale) are convicted in the incident then they can’t bring forth a civil lawsuit,” said Gross. “So this is a risk management strategy.” According the Flowers the officer in his brutality incident was fired and that is what he wants to happen to Hyman and Jindra.
Community organizer Spike Moss agreed. “What you saw here was a police riot,” said Moss. “A riot filled with hate and racism. When they (officers) saw the children were AfricanAmerican their hate began to show. If you look at the tape you see how they talk to the mother (who is white) and how it immediately changed when they encountered the children.” In a shocking development, hours after the Jan. 7 press conference and after the online publication of this news article, Hennepin County Attorney Mike Freeman announced he would not pursue the case against the siblings. “In the interest of justice, the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office today has dismissed three cases involving Champaigne Hale, Leonadis (Lee) Evans and Brandy Adams,” said Freeman in the one sentence press release.
Corey Day named Biden’s Minnesota senior advisor Biden for President is hiring more staff to build out its Super Tuesday efforts, adding Corey Day as Minnesota senior advisor and Rachel Caine as Colorado state director. “We are building a talented and dynamic Super Tuesday team across the country and are excited to welcome Rachel and Corey to Team Joe as we strengthen the diverse coalition Joe Biden is building across the country,” said Molly Ritner, director of Super Tuesday States, Biden for President. “Rachel and Corey are respected leaders in these states and have propelled Democrats to victory up and down the ballot. Colorado and Minnesota are not only key to winning the Democratic nomination, but will be pivotal battlegrounds to ensure we defeat Donald Trump.” Biden for President
has now hired state directors and senior advisors in Super Tuesday and battleground states across the country, including California, Massachusetts, Texas, Virginia, North Carolina and Florida. The campaign also has paid staff in key battleground and delegaterich states like Illinois and Missouri. Day served as the longtime executive director of the Minnesota DemocraticFamer-Labor ( D F L ) , overseeing the party’s local, state and federal election campaigns. He has directed state and field operations for the presidential campaigns of John Kerry, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. Recently, Day served as CEO of Blue Ox Strategies. The strategist lives in the Twin Cities where he manages the Minneapolis office of New Partners.
Harry Colbert, Jr.
Corey Day
News
Minnesota African American Heritage Calendar celebrates current honorees
PAGE 5
The Ramsey County Board of Commissioners elected Toni Carter as Chair of the Board for 2020 during its Jan. 7 meeting. Since 2005 Carter has represented Ramsey County District 4, made up of the St. Paul neighborhoods of Crocus Hill, Desnoyer Park, LexingtonHamline, Merriam Park, SnellingHamline, Summit Hill, St. Anthony Park, SummitUniversity and parts of Hamline-Midway, Highland Park and Macalester-Groveland. “It is a deep honor and privilege to serve the people of Ramsey County in this role. This is a pivotal time in our organization as we advance our Residents First approach to improving service delivery, reducing disparities and deepening engagement with our communities,” said Carter. “I’d like to thank Commissioner McDonough for his service as Chair for the past two years and look forward to continuing working together with my colleagues on the board to
move our county forward.” Carter, mother to St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter, has led several Ramsey County systems change efforts during her tenure, including the nationally recognized Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative that has reduced the number of youth held in detention and increased system and community alternatives for lowrisk youth. She serves as the chief local elected official on the Workforce Innovation Board of Ramsey County. Carter is also active in the Association of Minnesota Counties– previously serving as president – and a member of the board of directors of the National Association of Counties. Carter was the first African-American to be elected as county commissioner in Minnesota and is now the first AfricanAmerican in state history to serve as a county board chair. The seven-member board voted unanimously for the appointment.
Liberians rejoice over path to U.S. citizenship Global Information Network – As the Trump administration turns down an ever-growing number of applications for asylum, it surprised many that some 5,000 Liberians in the United States have been granted a path to citizenship. In fact, it was the product of decades of effort by the Liberian community and its allies. “This has been a 20-plus-year fight where people have not known their fate,” said Abena Abraham, co-founder of the Black Immigrant Collective, speaking to Sahan Journal in Minnesota. “The passage of this is a relief. It assures Liberians that the U.S. is their home.” The provision was buried in the $738 billion defense appropriation bill for fiscal year 2020 under “Other Matters.” It will allow Liberians to apply for green cards under the National Defense Authorization Act titled “Liberian refugee immigration fairness.” Under the provision, about 4,000 Liberians living in the U.S. can apply for permanent residence within one year of the legislation’s enactment. Qualified Liberian nationals will have lived in the U.S. continuously since Nov. 20, 2014 and not absent for more than 180 days in total. Anyone convicted of a violent crime, or an individual who has participated in the persecution of any person on account of race, religion, nationality or political opinion would be prohibited. Only one year ago, scores of Liberians in the U.S. feared deportation
Jubilant Liberians celebrate passage of legislation that allows for permanent U.S. citizenship for up to 5,000 currently living here. after President Trump set an expiration date of March 2019 for Deferred Enforcement Departure. But just days before the deadline, the administration quietly issued an executive order extending the program until March 30, 2020. And now, Liberians can apply for permanent residency before the expiration of their current statuses. “This breakthrough is a testament to the power of organizing, and what a focused movement can do,” said Patrice Lawrence, the National Policy and Advocacy Director for the UndocuBlack Network. “Our pleas have been heard,” Democratic Councilwoman Debi Rose of North Shore said. “When this bill is signed by the President, hundreds of our neighbors will no longer be living in limbo.”
I2H
Majority Whip Clyburn hails passage legislation to lower prescription drug costs
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Page 4 • January 13, 2020 - January 19, 2020 • Insight News
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Selected nonprofits will receive $125,000 in grants and expert consulting to support new ideas
Greater Twin Cities United Way invites local nonprofits to apply for community impact accelerator grants Greater Twin Cities United Way (United Way) announced today it is accepting applications for the Community Impact Accelerator. This grant will catalyze local nonprofits that are looking to bring innovative ideas to life through funding from United Way and expert consulting from Boston Consulting Group (BCG). The Community Impact Accelerator grants will be
given to pioneering nonprofits to support initiatives that build equity and enable sustainable growth and success. The Request for Proposals (RFP) is open online through February 14. “Innovation plays a critical role in addressing and solving our community’s most-pressing challenges, and big challenges require big ideas,” said John Wilgers, president and CEO of Greater Twin Cities United Way. “I’m
looking forward to hearing new ideas from local nonprofit leaders through United Way’s Community Impact Accelerator.” The RFP is open to any 501(c)(3) in the Greater Twin Cities nine-county metro area that meets the eligibility requirements. Qualifying nonprofits will present projects that bring forward innovative products or services, build equity by promoting just and fair inclusion, deliver prosperity with
societal value that has enduring social impact (positive impact on the community), have a sustainable economic model and are scalable to impact more people in the community, region and beyond. “As our office has grown, investing our team’s additional capacity alongside the most innovative and impactful nonprofits in the community has been incredibly rewarding and fun for our team,”
said Jennifer Bratton, managing director and senior partner at BCG. “With United Way, we share a desire to recognize and support these organizations, and we look forward to our next round of applications.” Following the initial application review, United Way and BCG will select six to eight semi-finalists who will present their ideas to a panel of diverse community leaders. The panel will then determine three
finalists who will present their ideas at United Way’s Together We Thrive event on May 7 at U.S. Bank Stadium. The audience will vote to determine the winners, who will be announced and awarded at the event. The first-place winner will receive $75,000 plus inkind expert consulting from BCG, and second- and thirdplace runners-up will each receive $25,000.
Science Fusion celebrates diversity in science achievement On four Saturday afternoons in January and February, science, culture and opportunity will meet during the Science Museum of Minnesota’s popular Science Fusion event series. This long-running event series focuses on the accomplishments of members of the Twin Cities’ AfricanAmerican, Asian-American, Native-American, and LatinxAmerican communities in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). During each Science Fusion event, science and education professionals from leading Twin Cities companies will present displays that demonstrate their passion for their
work and highlight the contributions they’ve made to science and innovation. Visitors will get a hands-on look at the scientists’ areas of expertise in a science fair-style setting. In addition, at each event Science Fusion event, the Science Museum and Donaldson Company will recognize a high-achieving Minnesota high school student with the 2020 Donaldson STEM Award. The 2020 Science Fusion events are African-Americans in Science, Jan. 18, LatinxAmericans in Science, Jan. 25, Native-Americans in Science, Feb. 1 and Asian-Americans in Science, Feb. 8. All events are from noon to 4 p.m. Science Fu-
sion activities are free with the purchase of general exhibit admission. Special rates are available for individuals with limited incomes; visit www.smm.org/ tickets for more information. In conjunction with the 2020 Science Fusion event series, four students from around Minnesota will be formally recognized and awarded the Donaldson STEM Award. The award recognizes Minnesota high-school students who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in or passion for a STEM discipline, either in the classroom or outside of school, as well as a commitment to giving back to the organizations and people who support them.
Students are nominated for the award by teachers or mentors. All winners receive $500, a Year of Science package to the Science Museum, and an invitation to the event for which they were nominated. Award ceremonies will take place at 11:45 a.m. on the Atrium Stage on level 3. The 2020 Donaldson STEM Award winners are Lydia Ato, a senior at Tartan High School, Erykah Camacho-Stewart, a junior at Virginia High School, Marcy Ferriere, a senior at Cloquet Senior High School and Maggie Wussow, a senior at Visitation School.
Lydia Ato
Grantees are a collection of grassroots organizations working across the United States, with a focus on youth, educational justice, and racial justice
Twin Cities Innovation Alliance receives Edward W. Hazen Foundation grant NEW YORK – The Edward W. Hazen Foundation, a private foundation supporting communities of color fighting for educational equity and racial justice, announced grants totaling $5.45 million to 18 organizations and four collaborative and coalition groups, as part of their fall 2019 grantmaking, with some grants deploying over four years. These grants are part of the Hazen Foundation’s commitment announced in March to spend out their full assets over the next five years to take advantage of the current political and cultural momentum for social and racial justice.
“The organizations selected for funding this year are among the most passionate and effective grassroots groups operating in the country today,” said Lori Villarosa, chair of the Hazen Foundation Board of Trustees. “Our nation is in a moment of crisis, and we must rise to meet the unique challenges of the day by supporting outstanding advocates for racial, educational and social justice. The young people who lead these organizations and are fighting for change in their communities will continue the legacy of the Hazen Foundation long after the funds are spent.” This year the
Marika Pfefferkorn
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Insight News is published weekly, every Monday by McFarlane Media Interests. Editor-In-Chief Al McFarlane Publisher Batala-Ra McFarlane Associate Editor & Associate Publisher B.P. Ford Managing Editor Harry Colbert, Jr. Culture and Education Editor Dr. Irma McClaurin Associate Editor Afrodescendientes Carmen Robles Associate Editor Nigeria & West Africa Chief Folarin Ero-Phillips Director of Content & Production Patricia Weaver Content & Production Coordinator Sunny Thongthi Yang Distribution/Facilities Manager Jamal Mohamed Receptionist Lue B. Lampley Intern Kelvin Kuria
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foundation shifted its application process, replacing written proposals with an interview protocol designed to gather the required data in combination with site visits and a review of materials submitted by the organizations, including newsletters, social and earned media, reports, videos, and podcasts. The foundation spoke with more than 70 organizations before selecting the final grantees. “Throughout our relationship, I have sincerely appreciated The Hazen Foundation›s steadfast commitment to us and other grantees. The level of responsiveness regarding the process and direct feedback regarding our organization›s
work this year was refreshing and something I wish more funders would do,” said Rapheal Randall, executive director of Youth United for Change who received $500,000 in this round of funding, divided over four years. “Having a funder who is so deeply committed to our mission and practices what they preach when it comes to racial equity is crucial to continuing our work in Philadelphia.” “The Hazen Foundation’s commitment to their grantees is unparalleled. This year’s new grantmaking process really centered around building on our relationship and the impact of our work. It was straightforward and transparent,” said Ashley McKay-Dandridge, founder of Tunica Teens in Action who received $400,000 in this round of funding, spread over four years. Of this year’s grantees, 82 percent are led by people of color. In addition, the organizations are all grassroots, community-based groups, with 77 percent operating on less than $1 million per year. Three quarters of the organizations received multi-year grants of two, three, or four years. These longer-term grants allow the groups to invest in infrastructure and strategies to build their communities and grow their organizations in a sustainable, durable way. “Our goal at the Hazen Foundation is to fund truly transformational work that supports young people, parents, and communities of color in their fight for racial and educational justice. In order to achieve this and live up to our ideals, we knew we had to interrogate our own grantmaking practices,” said Lori Bezahler, president of the Edward W. Hazen Foundation. “By striving to operationalize anti-oppressive practices in our own process, we hope to serve as a guide for others in the field who share our commitment to justice and to transparency in philanthropy.” Grantees include Twin Cities Innovation Alliance, a nonprofit run by Marika Pfefferkorn designed as a social venture, “intended to spark, resource and guide entrepreneurs as they grow and scale their businesses across the Twin Cities.” Others receiving grants include Kids RETHINK New Orleans, Arkansas Public Policy Panel, Youth on Board (BSAC), Youth United for Change and Baltimore Algebra Project.
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Insight News • January 13, 2020 - January 19, 2020 • Page 5
Minnesota African American Heritage Calendar celebrates current honorees The Minnesota African American Heritage Calendar Committee (MAAHC) has announced its 2020 honorees. “This Class is a combination of individuals who have enormous gifts, talents and span of service in Minnesota. These qualities have enabled them to grace our culture with such intelligence, wisdom, humility, and determination, making an indelible mark on history,” said Kim White of MAACH. “We are celebrating these individuals who have shared their visions, wisdom, imagination, and have demonstrated their persistence to lead and to be a catalyst for desirable change for society.” The year’s theme is entitled “The Visionaries.” “We recognize these honorees for the sharing of their visions and knowledge to improve the Minnesota landscape that inspire all Minnesotans,” said White. “Each member has sought opportunities to ensure the growth and development of various communities’ to prolong their longevity.” The honorees are Chanda Smith-Baker, senior vice president, Minneapolis Foundation, Richard Coleman, professor- College
of St Scholastica, Kim Ellison, Minneapolis Public Schools, Shirley Hughes English, retired senior executive, John Harrington, commissioner, Minnesota Department of Public Safety, Sen. Jeff Hayden, Minnesota State Senate, the Rev. Melvin Miller, Pastor, Progressive Baptist Church, Dr. Charles Morgan, CEO, Union Gospel Mission, Sameerah BilalRoby, director- African American Babies Project and Coalition, Artika Roller, executive director, Minnesota Coalition Against Sexual Assault, Justin Terrell, executive director, Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage and Derek Turner, product manager, US Bank. Lifetime Achievement honoree is Marvin Roger Anderson with historical recognition given to Phyllis Wheatley Community Center and Roy Wilkins. The unveiling calendar ceremony will be held on Jan. 31 at Progressive Family Life Center, 1505 Burns Ave. St. Paul. The calendars are available for purchase by emailing maahc2007@gmail.com or wh6k@aol.com. The price: $20 each or 10 or more for $17 each.
Shirley Hughes English
Artika Roller
Dr. Charles Morgan
Chanda Smith-Baker
Rev. Melvin Miller
Derek Turner
John Harrington
Sen. Jeff Hayden
Justin Terrell
Kim Ellison
Marvin Roger Anderson
Roy Wilkins
Sameerah Bilal-Roby
Richard Coleman
Meeting on Upper Harbor to take place at Minneapolis Urban League The Minneapolis Urban League will be the site for the next Upper Harbor Terminal Learning Table. Wednesday’s (Jan. 15) meeting takes place from 4
p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Minneapolis Urban League, 2100 Plymouth Ave. N. The seventh in a series, the interactive discussions allow residents to learn about and offer opinions
and suggestions for the nearly 49-acre site proposed for residential, commercial and entertainment development along the Mississippi River in North Minneapolis.
February’s Learning Table takes place Feb. 18 from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the offices of NorthPoint Health & Wellness, 1256 Penn Ave. N. – across the street from the Minneapolis
Urban League. For more information about the Upper Harbor Terminal development visit www.upperharbormpls. com. For information of
the Learning Tables email DeVon Nolen at devonn@ pillsburyunited.org.
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Page 6 • January 13, 2020 - January 19, 2020 • Insight News
Insight 2 Health
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Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota awards nearly $2.5 million to build community capacity and advance health equity The Center for Prevention at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota has awarded nearly $2 million in funding to 15 organizations from across Minnesota as a part of the Health POWER (People Organizing and Working for Equitable Results) program, and nearly $500,000 to three organizations working towards systems change related to health equity. Six Health POWER projects will be working in communities in greater Minnesota; nine projects are in the Twin Cities metro area and one project is striving for statewide reach. Two Tribal Nations will work with their communities including a project that will address Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
in three Tribal communities. The populations served through these 15 projects includes African-Americans, Asian-Americans, African immigrants/refugees; Latinos, Native-Americans and people living with mental illness and substance use providers. Three projects focus on youth leadership development. All 15 organizations are partnering with stakeholders such as other community groups, tribal departments, public health organizations, and youth groups. “Health POWER supports community-led organizations as they create solutions for their own health. We are excited to work these organizations as they engage community members and work
to create long-term, systemic change,” said Carolyn Link, senior director, community health partnerships, Blue Cross and Blue Shield. As a new component of the Center for Prevention funding model, the Health POWER funded organizations will regularly come together as a cohort to network, share successes and challenges, and identify opportunities to collaborate with peers. The Center for Prevention will host quarterly convenings and facilitate collective learning opportunities for the participants. “These organizations have proposed bold ideas that will promote leadership development, community-led solutions, and collaborations
to advance policy, systems and environmental change,” said Chris Matter, senior program manager, Community Health and Health Equity. “Our hope with this cohort experience is that connections, collaboration and a shared vision for healthier communities will provide the foundation for collective impact beyond any one individual project.” Organizations in the inaugural Health POWER cohort include The Alliance, American Lung Association in Minnesota, Appetite For Change, Association for Nonsmokers-Minnesota (ANSR), Communidades Latinas Unidas En Servicio (CLUES), The Food Group, Hmong American Farmers Association, Leech
Lake Band of Ojibwe, Lincoln Park Children and Families Collaborative, Lower Sioux Indian Community in the State of Minnesota, a federally recognized Indian tribe, Main Street Project, Minnesota Communities Caring for Children, NorthPoint Health and Wellness, Our Streets Minneapolis and The Trust for Public Land – Minnesota. Three organizations from diverse sectors will receive funding to address systemic issues related to health equity and community health in Minnesota. Born to Thrive will advocate for policy changes related to healthy eating in the early childcare sector through in-home childcare providers and centers throughout the
state. The Indigenous Food Network of Minneapolis will work to rebuild a sovereign food system in the Phillips neighborhood of Minneapolis. The Community Engagement for Equitable Systems Change collaborative will bring partners together to develop tools and resources to bridge the divide between systems and the communities they serve. “Collaboration is essential to achieving community health improvement goals. We are excited to work with these organizations to address some of the systemic issues impacting health throughout Minnesota,” said Link.
Majority Whip Clyburn hails passage legislation to lower prescription drug costs WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. House Majority Whip James Clyburn hailed House passage of H.R. 3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act. This landmark legislation gives Medicare the power to negotiate directly with drug companies and extends those lower prices to Americans with private insurance too. “This is an important step toward providing American consumers more accessible and affordable prescription drugs,” Clyburn said. “In the United States, our drug prices are nearly four times higher than in similar countries, and this legislation will provide real price reductions that will put significant money back in the pocket of consumers.” Negotiating lower prescription drug prices has the added benefit of cost savings to American taxpayers. A portion of
those savings will be reinvested in the National Institutes of Health to research new cures and treatments. Cost savings will also support an expansion of Medicare benefits to cover dental, vision, and hearing needs and sets a $2,000 out-of-pocket limit on prescription drug costs for those on Medicare. In addition, cost savings will be used to fund provisions of Clyburn’s H.R. 1943 – Community Health Center and Primary Care Workforce Expansion Act of 2019. H.R. 3 will provide a $10 billion funding boost to community health centers, which serve 28 million Americans in communities across the United States, including over 350,000 veterans, 8 million children, and 1.4 million homeless patients. This $10 billion includes $5 billion for capital improvements and construction
to expand the footprint of community health centers and an additional $5 billion in funding over the next five years for community health center grants, allowing them to serve more people, including Americans living in rural areas, where half of the Centers are located. “Providing robust funding to build on the success of community health centers is critically important to providing quality health care in hard-toreach communities,” Clyburn said. “In my district alone, where three rural hospitals have closed, there are eight federally-funded community health centers working to serve almost 190,000 patients.” H.R. 3 passed the House on a bipartisan vote, 230192, and was sent to the Senate for consideration.
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U.S. House Majority Whip James Clyburn hailed House passage of H.R. 3, the Elijah E. Cummings Lower Drug Costs Now Act.
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Insight News • January 13, 2020 - January 19, 2020 • Page 7
From NFL to NFL: Tyler Johnson is Northside For Life By Harry Colbert, Jr. Managing Editor harry@insightnews.com NFL. For former Minnesota Gopher star wide receiver Tyler Johnson those three letters are not just about where he is going, but they are about where he has been, who his is and the community that helped shape him. Yes, NFL is the acronym for National Football League – the assured next stop for Johnson – but ask the All-Big Ten star who holds 23 … twenty-three Gopher records … what the NFL means to him and without hesitation it’s Northside For Life. A product of North
Minneapolis and proud graduate of North Community High School, Johnson returned to his alma mater to be honored by having his high school basketball jersey number retired and the mayor proclaimed Jan. 4, 2020 as Tyler Johnson Day in the city of Minneapolis. For Johnson, the honor and his success say as much about him as they do about his beloved community. “It’s a blessing just to have a day named for you. It took a lot of hard work. But I know I have people looking up to me and every time I hear a kid say he wants to be like me I say, ‘No, be better than me,’” said Johnson. “I’m always going to be here (Northside) for them.” Johnson’s commitment
Harry Colbert, Jr.
Tyler Johnson (third left), was honored with his own day in the city of Minneapolis by Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey (second left). Alongside Johnson and the mayor are Johnson’s high school football and basketball coaches, Charles Adams, Jr. (left) and Larry McKenzie (right). to the Northside was most evident when he enrolled at
North in 2013. On the brink of closure, Johnson was one of just
56 students that year to attend the once vaunted school. In the school’s return to glory, Johnson led the Polars to state titles in both football and basketball. Clearly a standout athlete and bright academic, Johnson had his pick of high schools, but he chose North. “Actually, it was my parents,” said Johnson, who said their decision turned out to be the best for him. “We are strong believers in our Northside community. We love the Northside. I’m a proud Polar – class of ’99 – and I knew Tyler was being surrounded by all the right people at North,” said Lacreasha Johnson, Tyler Johnson’s mom. “In many ways, going to North for Tyler was like
going to a private school.” Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said Johnson’s is one of many wonderful stories coming out of North Minneapolis. “Tyler gives us a sense of pride here in Minneapolis; pride of Northside and pride of our entire city,” said Frey. “I love the Northside and spend as much time as I can here. The Northside should not get the short end of the stick. It’s a highlight and pillar of our city.” In presenting Johnson with his proclamation, Frey’s biggest applause line came when he recognized Johnson as not only a Polar for life or a Gopher for life; it came when he shouted out Johnson as NFL … Northside For Life.
Cast led by members of the Broadway revival
‘Once on This Island’ brings the Caribbean to Minnesota artistic director. Cast members from the 2017 Broadway revival lead the touring company, including “American Idol” alum Tamyra Gray as Papa Ge, Cassondra James as Erzulie, Tony Nominee Phillip Boykin as Tonton Julian, Courtnee Carter as Ti Moune and Tyler Hardwick as Daniel Beauxhomme. Completing the gods of the island are Jahmaul
Joan Marcus
Kyle Ramar Freeman as Asaka and Courtnee Carter as Ti Moune in the North American Tour of “Once on This Island.” Winner of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical, “Once on This Island” brings the Caribbean to the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts for a limited time Feb. 4 through Feb. 9. “Once on This Island” is the tale of Ti Moune, a fearless peasant girl in search of her place in the world, and ready to risk it all for love. Guided by the mighty island gods, Ti Moune sets out on a remarkable journey to reunite with the man who has captured her heart. The vision of twotime Tony Award nominated director Michael Arden (“Spring Awakening” revival) and acclaimed choreographer Camille A. Brown (NBC’s “Jesus Christ Superstar Live”) conjures up “a place where magic is possible and beauty is apparent for all to see!” according to The Huffington Post. “This revival of ‘Once on This Island’ is truly a magical theater experience like no other. I cannot wait to share this transformative production with Ordway audiences,” said Rod Kaats, the Ordway’s producing
Presented by:
A collaborative concert experience celebrating the North Minneapolis community through music.
Music by the Northside Celebration Choir, the Courtland Pickens Community Youth Choir, the SPCO, Sanford Moore, Sherri Orr and Greta Oglesby. Directed by Dennis Spears and Kevin West
Jan 25 — 2 PM & 8 PM
North Community High School 1500 James Ave N — enter door 18 on Irving Ave
Reserve your FREE tickets at: thespco.org/northside or
651.291.1144
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
Bakare as Agwe and Kyle Ramar Freeman as Asaka. Highlighting the vibrant culture of the Caribbean, the revival’s authentic set design features many natural and immersive elements rarely seen on the Broadway stage. “All the elements that were the talking points of the Broadway design have been maintained for the tour: the sand,
the rain, the fire, the wind,” said scenic designer, Dane Laffrey. “From the moment the audience walks into the theater, they get that communal feel of the Caribbean.” Audiences are advised to arrive early as the actors engage with the audience before the show’s start time.
Page 8 • January 13, 2020 - January 19, 2020 • Insight News
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