Minnesota Department of Human Rights Commissioner Kevin Lindsey will explore our state's changing demographics and what these trends mean for jobs, education, and our economic future in a public forum in the Large Community Outreach Room at Ridgewater College in Willmar, MN from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, Oct. 25.

In addition, Commissioner Lindsey will discuss the impact of the proposed Voter ID and Marriage Amendments to Minnesota's Constitution, and provide an overview of the Department of Human Rights' role in ending discrimination in Minnesota.

The Commissioner will discuss how Minnesota's demographics have shifted dramatically over the past decade, a trend that will accelerate and change the makeup of our workforce. As predominantly white workers of the baby boom generation retire in increasing numbers, the share of people of color in the workforce is expected to more than double.

Minnesota will not have the highly skilled workers it will need in 2020 and beyond unless we find ways to include more minorities in the workforce today, and provide training and education for the workforce of tomorrow, Commissioner Lindsey said.

The Commissioner will explain why the Governor's initiatives in education are important, and discuss the efforts of the Department of Human Rights, working in collaboration with other organizations, to ensure that all Minnesotans have a chance to compete for job opportunities as our economy regains strength.

In addressing the Voter ID and Marriage Amendments, Commissioner Lindsey will analyze the arguments pro and con, and explain why the Department of Human Rights opposes the Amendments.

A public comment and question-and-answer session will follow the Commissioner's presentation.

The forum is hosted by the Department of Multicultural Affairs, Ridgewater College.

What: Willmar Public Forum with Commissioner Kevin Lindsey

When: Thursday, October 25, 6 PM - 8 PM

Where: Large Community Outreach Room , Ridgewater College, 2101 15th Avenue NW, Willmar, MN 56201

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For more information please contact: Jeff Holman, Minnesota Department of Human Rights, 651.539.1090, jeff.holman@state.mn.us