[#mnrising Dispatch] May 2023

May bloomed with the beginnings of transitions to be fully realized in June with the Solstice, end of the academic calendar year, and arrival hot summer weather that creates new and familiar opportunities to experience and enjoy Mni Sota Makoce. Pride Month kicks off to commemorate the riotous spirit of protest and advocacy as well as celebrate and uplift LGBTQIA2S+ community members, including events shared in this month's Dispatch. Happy Pride!

2023-2024 Leadership Twin Cities

Leadership Twin Cities develops individuals into civic and community leaders. This nine-month long program provides a deep dive into the critical issues impacting the Minneapolis-Saint Paul region with a focus on awareness, systems thinking, and civic action to foster inclusive regional growth. This program is invaluable for individuals seeking to build their understanding of our community’s greatest challenges, develop a robust network of cross-sector civic leaders, and build their own capacity to influence systemic change. The deadline to apply for the 2023-2024 class is Friday, June 16, 2023. [Read more.]

Twin Cities Pride Festival

The Twin Cities Pride Festival is a CELEBRATION of the LGBTQ+ Community. This year’s Festival and parade theme is Elevate and Amplify: "It is more important than ever to act with intentionality, purpose and to highlight different voices while bringing other marginalized communities with us." Throughout the month of June, the Twin Cities Pride line-up includes Cheers to Pride, Grand Marshal Reception, Family Fun Day, Pride Festival, Rainbow Run 5K My Way, and the Pride March. Twin Cities is seeking volunteers as well as clothing donations for the Rainbow Wardrobe. [Learn more.]

Respectful Conversations Lead Facilitator Application

Minnesota Council of Churches Respectful Conversations are structured, facilitated conversations designed not to change minds but soften hearts. Empathy is built and relationships are strengthened in faith communities, community organizations, institutes of higher education, membership associations and municipalities through facilitator training and conversation experiences. This year MCC is planning to train a diverse cohort of MCC Respectful Conversations Lead Facilitators. Doing so will expand the base of cultural assumptions and competencies from which they help to depolarize communities. [Learn more.]

Neighborhood Leadership Program (NLP)

The NLP is a seven-month program that brings a cohort of up to 20, 18 years of age or older, in Dakota and Anishinaabe territory, also known as the Greater Twin Cities area. NLP aims to grow people’s capacity to practice self-awareness, working across differences, and value-based action. The program runs September 2023 - April 2024 and is open to applicants who are both early and seasoned in their leadership journey. Everyone has something to learn and share from and with one another. [Apply online.]