In the November 2012 election, Minnesota voters will be asked to decide on two major Constitutional amendments: one would require that all voters produce a photo ID at the polls; the other would limit the status of marriage to opposite sex couples by defining marriage as solely between one man and one woman.

Minnesota Department of Human Rights Commissioner Kevin Lindsey will explore both amendments at a public meeting of Albert Lea Human Rights Commission on Sept. 27 from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. Commissioner Lindsey will analyze the arguments pro and con, and discuss why the debate over both amendments matters for our democracy.

In addition, Commissioner Lindsey will discuss how our state's demographics have changed dramatically over the past decade. This trend will accelerate in the years ahead, and as the predominantly white workers of the baby boom generation retire, the share of people of color in the workforce will more than double. Commissioner Lindsey will discuss the implications for jobs, education, and our state's economic future.

Commissioner Lindsey will also provide an overview the Department of Human Rights wide-ranging activities to end discrimination in Minnesota and the Department's goals and new initiatives for the year.

A public comment and question-and-answer session will follow the presentations. Audience members will be encouraged to offer their viewpoints on the topics discussed, or raise other human rights concerns.

What: Albert Lea Human Rights Commission Public Forum with Commissioner Kevin Lindsey

When: Thursday, September 27, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Where: Albert Lea City Hall, 221 East Clark Street Albert Lea, MN 56007

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