Week of Events Celebrates Human Rights Achievements, Explores Issues of Equality, Social Justice

Governor Mark Dayton has proclaimed the week of December 2-8 as Human Rights Week in Minnesota.  A week-long celebration of human rights events have been planned by the Minnesota Department of Human Rights to recognize work being done, and challenges remaining, in addressing disparities, removing barriers of discrimination, and ensuring equal opportunity.

The Governor's proclamation reminds Minnesotans of our state's rich diversity of races, cultures, beliefs and ways of life, and of the need to secure freedom from discrimination for all people.“We're honored that Governor Dayton, through this proclamation, has recognized the role of the Department of Human Rights, as well as that of community-based partners and all Minnesotans concerned with human rights and social justice,” said Kevin Lindsey, Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Human Rights.

“We have worked with partners to ensure that Human Rights Week provides opportunities for Minnesotans to learn about the latest human rights developments, and participate in ongoing conversations about critical issues,” Lindsey said.

PLANNED HUMAN RIGHTS EVENTS THIS WEEK IN MINNESOTA:

The Minnesota Department of Human Rights will be kicking off the week with an all-day symposium in St. Paul today for individuals who registered for the ticketed event prior to the deadline on Friday, Nov. 30, 2012. (More Information)

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THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM IN MINNESOTA: YOUTH AND EMPLOYMENT

Date: Tuesday, December 4
Time: 12:30-2 pm
Location: University of St. Thomas Law School

Minnesota Department of Human Rights Commissioner Kevin Lindsey and the University of St. Thomas Law School Professor Nekima Levy-Pounds will discuss efforts to reduce the barriers to employment for those with prior conviction records. Professor Levy-Pounds will also discuss a recent report from the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, "On The Level," which found that Minnesota's juvenile justice system is rife with racial inequalities. 

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AN EVENT TO HONOR DR. JOSIE JOHNSON

Date: Wednesday, December 5
Time: 8:30-10 am
Location: Minneapolis Urban League

Minnesota Department of Human Rights Commissioner Kevin Lindsey will honor Dr. Josie Johnson with the Humanitarian Service Award.  Dr. Johnson has shown outstanding character, commitment to equity, social justice, and human dignity. The public is invited to join us in honoring her with this award.

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BUSINESS INCLUSION: ENSURING OPPORTUNITIES FOR MINORITY ENTERPRISES

Date: Wednesday, December 5
Time: 5:15 PM - 6:30 PM-1:30 pm
Location: Humphrey Forum at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs

A panel discussion focuses on business inclusion and strategies to expand opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses to participate in our economy. Panelists include Kevin Lindsey, Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Human Rights; Craig Taylor, Director for the Office of Business and Community Economic Development at the University of Minnesota; and Dr. Sam Myers, Professor at the University of Minnesota's Humphrey School of Public Affairs.  

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OTHER NOTABLE HUMAN RIGHTS EVENTS THIS WEEK

In addition to the public events, several organizations are sponsoring events during Human Rights Week:

• On TUESDAY, DEC. 4, Carlson Chairman Marilyn Carlson Nelson will host Commissioner Kevin Lindsey at an invitation only event at Carlson world headquarters in Minnetonka.
  
  
• On THURSDAY, DEC. 6, Commissioner Lindsey will speak at the Hennepin County Bar Association (HBCA) in Minneapolis on current trends in bullying, intimidation and harassment in Minnesota schools, and review existing Minnesota law. Commissioner Lindsey served as a member of the Prevention of Bullying Task Force, which was formed by Governor Dayton earlier this year to ensure that all students have a safe learning environment. 
  
  
  For more information please contact: Jeff Holman, Minnesota Department of Human Rights, 651.539.1090, jeff.holman@state.mn.us