Race/Ethnicity

Following two recent incidents that occurred at Minneapolis high schools — a Black doll hung by the neck from a string at Washburn High School and a cafeteria fight at South High School — Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) Chief Communications Officer Stan Alleyne said, “There is a new level of intensity and urgency” around the importance of teaching Black history in the schools.

Marcileen Martin cheerfully declares herself "a true Minnesotan" who has spent roughly half her 67 years in each of the Twin Cities, first in St. Paul, graduating from Central High (the same school as most of the crew from Mint Condition) and, for the last three decades, in Minneapolis.

Alton Jenkins looks better at 63 than most of us ever do in our lives. Dapper, sleek, immaculately groomed, he joins us at Pow Wow Grounds in South Minneapolis to reflect on life in the Twin Cities.

So often we find ourselves involved in activities without fully understanding why, as occasionally is the case during our annual observance of Black History Month. This celebration is our most meaningful opportunity to promote cultural awareness, provide direction for our young, and take pride in our collective historical accomplishments.