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Community Stories
Feb 2, 2024
Please take a moment to read about our Assistant Director's experience growing up in MN and the importance of honoring Black History Month:
"I celebrate Black History Month not just in February but daily because I appreciate what my ancestors have done for me. They have given people of color a voice and a seat at any table they want. This is progress, but there is a lot of work to be done.
As an African American male raised in the heart of Minneapolis, MN, I am considered a unicorn and am proud of where I am today. I appreciate the strong foundation my parents built while living in fear as I traveled to and from school or even hanging with friends in the neighborhood. Being black and living in America, I have witnessed several disadvantages people of color have just based on the tone of their skin. Despite the hardships I saw growing up, I feel everyone has a job to encourage change, equal rights, and equal opportunities.
For that reason, in unity, people of color recognize Black History Month proudly and loudly by listening to stories of black inventors, entrepreneurs, artists, and philosophers who have impacted us all. We celebrate the achievements that African Americans have accomplished in this country despite the history of racism and oppression our ancestors went through to give us the opportunities we have today." – Bonzo, The Bank of Elk River.
Interested in learning more? Check out these opportunities in the Twin Cities area:
"I celebrate Black History Month not just in February but daily because I appreciate what my ancestors have done for me. They have given people of color a voice and a seat at any table they want. This is progress, but there is a lot of work to be done.
As an African American male raised in the heart of Minneapolis, MN, I am considered a unicorn and am proud of where I am today. I appreciate the strong foundation my parents built while living in fear as I traveled to and from school or even hanging with friends in the neighborhood. Being black and living in America, I have witnessed several disadvantages people of color have just based on the tone of their skin. Despite the hardships I saw growing up, I feel everyone has a job to encourage change, equal rights, and equal opportunities.
For that reason, in unity, people of color recognize Black History Month proudly and loudly by listening to stories of black inventors, entrepreneurs, artists, and philosophers who have impacted us all. We celebrate the achievements that African Americans have accomplished in this country despite the history of racism and oppression our ancestors went through to give us the opportunities we have today." – Bonzo, The Bank of Elk River.
Interested in learning more? Check out these opportunities in the Twin Cities area:
- Black History, Black Voices | Minnesota Historical Society (mnhs.org)
- Celebrating Black History Month | Hennepin County
- Minnesota African American Heritage Museum and Gallery (maahmg.org)
- Celebrate Black History Month in Minneapolis | Meet Minneapolis | Meet Minneapolis
- Black History Month - Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board (minneapolisparks.org)
