02034News640NewsThis past weekend, Minnesota's Ombudsperson for Asian and Pacific Families, Manuel B. Zuniga Jr., spent two days immersed in the kind of coalition-building and storytelling work that sits at the heart of his office's mission — meeting one of the Asian American movement's most influential voices along the way.eng641673156Helen Zia, an older Asian American woman and civil rights icon, smiles next to Ombudsperson Zuniga, a Filipino American man wearing traditional attire./ombudfam/assets/Manuel%20Zuniga%20and%20Helen%20Zia_tcm1105-758589.jpgHelen Zia, an older Asian American woman and civil rights icon, smiles next to Ombudsperson Zuniga, a Filipino American man wearing traditional attire./ombudfam/assets/Manuel%20Zuniga%20and%20Helen%20Zia_tcm1105-758589.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-758587" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-07-07T13:59:31ZThis past weekend, Minnesota's Ombudsperson for Asian and Pacific Families, Manuel B. Zuniga Jr., spent two days immersed in the kind of coalition-building and storytelling work that sits at the heart of his office's mission — meeting one of the Asian American movement's most influential voices along the way.June 27-28, 20261105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Over the weekend of June 27, Minnesota's Ombudsperson for Asian and Pacific Families, Manuel B. Zuniga Jr., spent two days immersed in the kind of coalition-building and storytelling work that sits at the heart of his office's mission — meeting one of the Asian American movement's most influential voices along the way.</p> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">A Conversation at Diane's Place</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">On Saturday, June 27, Zuniga attended a gathering at Diane's Place in Northeast Minneapolis, held as part of the Asian American Journalists Association's national convention, AAJA26, which brought thousands of journalists and media professionals to the Twin Cities for the week. Rather than a panel or press briefing, the event was structured as an open conversation between community leaders and journalists, with tables intentionally mixing the two groups to close the gap between the people who report on communities and the communities themselves.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The gathering was organized by author and activist Helen Zia, a central figure in the fight for justice following the 1982 murder of Vincent Chin, alongside Minnesota advocate KaYing Yang. Zia helped found American Citizens for Justice, the Detroit-based group whose organizing led to a federal civil rights trial in the case — a campaign widely credited with helping galvanize the modern Asian American civil rights movement. For Zuniga, whose work centers on advocating for Asian and Pacific families across Minnesota, the chance to speak directly with Zia offered a firsthand link to that history and its lessons for community organizing today.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">KaYing Yang, a Twin Cities-based advocate who arrived in Minnesota as a Hmong refugee, brings her own decades of leadership to that work. She was appointed to President Biden's Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders in 2022, where she helped advise the federal government on issues ranging from anti-Asian hate crimes to language access and economic equity for AA and NHPI communities. Her long career in Minnesota — including roles with the Coalition of Asian American Leaders and Southeast Asia Resource Action Center — has centered on lifting up the voices of the state's Southeast Asian communities.</p> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">AAUC's Unity Summit</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Zuniga's weekend also included the Asian American Unity Coalition's 2026 Unity Summit, held in the Twin Cities under the theme "From Crisis to Coalition: Lessons from the Front Lines." The two-day summit paired a Saturday of visits with Southeast Asian, Somali, and Latino community leaders directly affected by recent federal immigration enforcement actions with a Sunday of panels and coalition-building sessions at the University of Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Between the two events, Zuniga's weekend reflected a throughline in his work as Ombudsperson: building relationships across communities, media, and advocacy organizations so that the concerns of Asian and Pacific families in Minnesota are heard, understood, and acted upon.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">"During times of crisis within the AANHPI community, it is important to lead with courage, love, and integrity to defend our neighbors, to protect immigrants, and collaborate to build the neighborhood communities we envision," Zuniga said.</p> <hr xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" /> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The Office of Ombudsperson for Families advocates for the rights and well-being of Minnesota families, including through the work of the Ombudsperson for Asian and Pacific Families</em>.</p>7585876717102026-07-07T14:31:49ZNews640NewsA Call to Protect AANHPI Children and Familieseng641a black and white photo of a Chinese man, Vincent Chin, smiling at the camera/ombudfam/assets/Vincent_Jen_Chin_tcm1105-756409.jpga black and white photo of a Chinese man, Vincent Chin, smiling at the camera/ombudfam/assets/Vincent_Jen_Chin_tcm1105-756409.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-756405" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-06-24T14:35:09ZThis case exposed how invisible Asian American harm could be to public institutions. June 23, 20261105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>June 23, 2026</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Forty-four years ago today, <a href="https://www.nps.gov/people/vincent-chin.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="Who Was Vincent Chin">Vincent Chin died in a Detroit hospital</a>, four days after he was beaten with a baseball bat by two men who blamed him for the struggles of the American auto industry. He was 27 years old, days away from his wedding. His killers, Ronald Ebens and Michael Nitz, never spent a day in jail. A judge explained the $3,000 fine and probation he handed down by saying, "These weren't the kind of men you send to jail."</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">That sentence — and the silence that might have followed it — became instead the spark for a national movement. Vincent Chin's mother, Lily Chin, and a small group of Detroit activists refused to let his death be quietly absorbed into the city's racial unrest. They organized, testified, and pushed the U.S. Department of Justice to bring the first federal civil rights prosecution on behalf of an Asian American victim. In doing so, they helped build the modern pan-Asian American civil rights movement — uniting Chinese, Japanese, Filipino, Korean, South Asian, and other communities that, until then, had often organized separately.</p> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Why This Anniversary Belongs on a Child Welfare Website</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Office of Ombudsperson for Families exists to make sure children and families — especially families of color, including Asian-Pacific Minnesotan families — are treated fairly within Minnesota's child protection system. Vincent Chin's story is not, on its surface, a child welfare case. But its legacy reaches directly into the lives of the immigrant and AANHPI (Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander) families our office serves, in ways that are easy to overlook and important to name.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chin was killed because he was mistaken for someone else</strong>. Ebens and Nitz, autoworkers angry about layoffs they blamed on Japanese competition, attacked a Chinese American man as a stand-in for a country he had no connection to. That collapsing of distinct ethnicities, languages, and immigration histories into a single undifferentiated "other" did not end in 1982. It shapes how AANHPI children are perceived in schools, how immigrant parents are read by systems that don't share their language or context, and how quickly a family's culture can be misjudged as a risk factor rather than a strength. For caseworkers, teachers, and mandated reporters, the lesson of Chin's case is a caution against flattening difference — a Hmong family, a Filipino family, and a South Korean family are not interchangeable, and treating them as such can lead to misunderstanding that affects real decisions about real children.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>The case exposed how invisible Asian American harm could be to public institutions</strong>. Before 1983, no federal civil rights case had ever been brought on behalf of an Asian American victim — a fact that startled even the activists who pursued it. AANHPI communities had been treated as outside the conversation about racial justice altogether. That same invisibility shows up today in child welfare data. Asian-Pacific children and families are often the smallest, least-disaggregated category in state reporting, which can mask real disparities in how families are screened, investigated, or referred for services — and can leave specific subgroups, such as refugee or recently arrived immigrant families, without the targeted support they need.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Chin's case began with assumptions, not facts</strong>. Witnesses later testified that his killers never asked who he was or where his family came from — only what he appeared to be. Immigrant families navigating child protection systems today often face a related dynamic: practices like corporal punishment, multigenerational households, language used at home, or unfamiliarity with American parenting norms can be misread as neglect or harm rather than understood within their cultural context. A culturally and linguistically competent child welfare system — one of the explicit goals of this office — is the direct opposite of the assumption-driven violence that took Vincent Chin's life. It asks who a family actually is before deciding what their behavior means.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>The silence Chin's case broke is the same silence that can isolate families today</strong>. In Detroit in 1982, many in the Asian American community held what was described at the time as a "don't make waves" attitude, born of fear that speaking up would invite more hostility. Immigrant and refugee families today can carry a similar caution into encounters with child protection systems — worried that disclosing a struggle, a cultural practice, or even abuse within their own family might expose them to deportation risk, language-access barriers, or judgment they don't have the standing to contest. Lily Chin's decision to speak out, despite grief and unfamiliarity with the American legal system, is a reminder of how much courage it takes for any parent to engage with a system that holds power over their family — and how much responsibility sits with that system to make engagement safe.</p> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">What This Means for Our Work</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Office of Ombudsperson for Families is statutorily charged with reducing racial and ethnic disparities in Minnesota's child protection system and ensuring that laws protecting children and families are carried out in a culturally and linguistically competent way. Vincent Chin's case, and the 44 years of organizing it sparked, offer concrete guidance:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>See families as they are, not as a category</strong>. AANHPI is not one community; it is dozens of languages, immigration histories, and relationships to American institutions. Effective casework starts with specificity.</li> <li><strong>Build language and cultural access into the front door of the system</strong>, not as an afterthought once a case is already open.</li> <li><strong>Make space for families to come forward without fear</strong> — whether the fear is of deportation, of cultural judgment, or of a system that has historically overlooked them.</li> <li><strong>Disaggregate the data</strong>. A community that is undercounted is a community whose needs are invisible to the systems meant to serve it.</li> </ul> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Carrying the Commemoration Forward</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Each June, AANHPI communities across the country mark Vincent Chin's death not as a single tragedy frozen in 1982, but as a living reminder of what happens when institutions fail to see people clearly — and what becomes possible when families and communities refuse to stay silent. For the Office of Ombudsperson for Families, that is not an abstract lesson. It is the work itself: making sure every child and family who comes into contact with Minnesota's child protection system is seen, heard, and treated with the fairness Vincent Chin and his family were denied.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">If you are an immigrant or AANHPI family in Minnesota navigating a child welfare concern and have questions about your rights, or wish to file a complaint about how your family has been treated within the child protection system, you can contact our office directly. Support is also available through the Refugee and Immigrant Helpline at 1-800-814-4806.</p> <hr xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" /> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>The Office of Ombudsperson for Families is an independent Minnesota state agency working to reduce racial and ethnic disparities in the child welfare system and ensure all families are protected by law in child placement proceedings</em>.</p>7564056717102026-06-24T14:50:48ZNews640NewsMay is Older Americans Month. It is a time to thank older adults in Minnesota for everything they do for our state.eng671705641673155A grandfather and his grandchild sharing pizza at an outdoor picnic table./ombudfam/assets/Family%20eating%20pizza_tcm1105-746352.jpgA grandfather and his grandchild sharing pizza at an outdoor picnic table./ombudfam/assets/Family%20eating%20pizza_tcm1105-746352.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-745539" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-05-11T15:21:59ZMay is Older Americans Month. It is a time to thank older adults in Minnesota for everything they do for our state.May 20261105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">May is Older Americans Month. It is a time to thank older adults in Minnesota for everything they do for our state.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">One important way they help is by caring for children. When children cannot stay with their parents, grandparents and other relatives often step in to help. They provide a safe and loving home so children can stay connected to their family and community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Did you know</strong>?</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>About 66% of children in family foster care in Minnesota are placed with relatives or other kin, according to <a href="https://mn.gov/ombudfam/news/community.jsp?id=1105-682748" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports from the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF)</a>.</li> <li>Between 2023 and 2025, 28,000 children in Minnesota were in kinship care (<a href="https://datacenter.aecf.org/data/customreports/25/10455,108" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annie E. Casey Foundation report</a>).</li> <li>In 2024, 17,000 children are being raised by grandparents (<a href="https://datacenter.aecf.org/data/customreports/25/10455,108" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Annie. E Casey Foundation report</a>).</li> <li>Many of these caregivers are <strong>over age 60</strong>, continuing a trend of older adults stepping up to support the next generation (<a href="https://www.gksnetwork.org/kinship-data/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kinship and Grandparents Data report</a>).</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This May, we honor these older caregivers. Their hard work and love keep families together in our communities. They deserve our deepest thanks and our strongest support.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota offers several resources to support kinship caregivers, including many specifically designed for older adults and grandparents.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Statewide Support &amp; Navigation</strong></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><a href="https://dcyf.mn.gov/kinship-navigator-programs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Minnesota Kinship Navigator Program</a>: This program connects relatives and close friends raising children with legal, financial, and emotional support.</li> <li><a href="https://www.lssmn.org/services/families/kinship" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kinship Warmline (Lutheran Social Service of MN)</a>: A dedicated phone line (877-917-4640) providing one-to-one support and referrals to local medical, financial, and legal services.</li> <li><a href="https://mn.gov/aging-pathways/caregivers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Senior LinkAge Line</a>: A free statewide service (800-333-2433) that helps older adults find community resources, including specific support for grandparents raising grandchildren.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Financial Assistance</strong></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><a href="https://dcyf.mn.gov/programs-directory/minnesota-family-investment-program-mfip" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP) - Child Only Grant</a>: Provides monthly cash and food assistance for children living with relatives. The caregiver's income is often not counted for this specific grant.</li> <li><a href="https://dcyf.mn.gov/individuals-and-families/family-services/adoption-foster-care-and-kinship-supports/northstar-kinship-assistance" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Northstar Kinship Assistance</a>: Financial support for relatives who take permanent legal and physical custody of children previously in foster care.</li> <li><a href="https://www.bridgetobenefits.org/Senior_Citizens2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bridge to Benefits</a>: An online tool to see if your family is eligible for public programs like energy assistance, health care, or tax credits.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Legal &amp; Specialized Resources</strong></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><a href="https://kfcmn.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Keeping Families Connected Minnesota</a>: A nonprofit providing legal help for kinship caregivers navigating family court and custody issues.</li> <li><a href="https://www.lawhelpmn.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LawHelp MN</a>: Offers legal information and helps you find free or low-cost legal clinics based on your zip code.</li> <li><a href="https://www.diw-mn.org/elders" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Division of Indian Work</a>: Provides specialized support groups and services for Native American elders and grandparents acting as caregivers.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Local Navigator Offices</strong></p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>St. Paul: <a href="https://www.lssmn.org/services/families/kinship" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lutheran Social Service</a>, 651-917-4640</li> <li>Twin Cities: <a href="https://ultcmn.org/center-for-the-advancement-of-the-black-family/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Urban League Twin Cities</a>, 612-302-3100</li> <li>Rochester Area: <a href="https://familyresourcecentermn.org/Kinship-Care" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Family Service Rochester</a>, 507-218-3255</li> <li>St. Cloud Area: <a href="https://www.nexusfamilyhealing.org/foster-care-adoption/minnesota" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nexus-Kindred Family Healing</a>, 320-200-2442</li> </ul>7455392026-05-11T15:24:39ZNews640NewsMay is Foster Care Advocacy and Awareness Month in Minnesota.eng673155671705Two girls lying on picnic blankets and smiling./ombudfam/assets/Girls%20smiling%20picnic%20blanket_tcm1105-711933.jpgTwo girls lying on picnic blankets and smiling./ombudfam/assets/Girls%20smiling%20picnic%20blanket_tcm1105-711933.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-746336" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-05-07T14:57:19ZMay is Foster Care Advocacy and Awareness Month in Minnesota.May 20261105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">May is <strong>Foster Care Advocacy and Awareness Month</strong> in Minnesota. It’s a vital time to honor the children that spend time in foster care every year. While Minnesota has seen a <a href="https://mn.gov/ombudfam/news/community.jsp?id=1105-682748" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">31% decrease</a> in the number of children in care over the past five years, the need for stable, caring homes remains urgent, especially for sibling groups and teens. As of <a href="https://dcyf.mn.gov/sites/default/files/2025-09/permanency-services-foster-care-2025.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">early 2025 reporting</a>, approximately 5,865 children were in foster care in Minnesota on an average day, based on 2024 year-end data.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This month, we celebrate the families and professionals working toward the goal of "relational permanency" in family foster care were children are placed with relatives, a significant step in keeping kids connected to their communities and heritage.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Key Data &amp; Trends</strong>:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>Declining Numbers</strong>: The average daily number of children in out-of-home placement has <a href="https://www.dhs.state.mn.us/main/groups/county_access/documents/twocolumns/mndhs-070074.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dropped from 8,499 in 2020 to roughly 5,865</a> in 2024/2025.</li> <li><strong>Placements by Type</strong>: In 2024, <a href="https://mn.gov/ombudfam/news/community.jsp?id=1105-682748" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">66% of children in family foster care</a> were placed with relatives.</li> <li><strong>Demographics</strong>: As of the <a href="https://dcyf.mn.gov/sites/default/files/2025-09/permanency-services-foster-care-2025.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2025 report</a>, approximately 37% of children in care were white, 26% two or more races, 18% American Indian/Alaska Native, 15% African American/Black, 2% Asian/Pacific Islander, 11% Hispanic or Latino ethnicity, of any race.</li> <li><strong>Placement Entries</strong>: <a href="https://imprintnews.org/child-welfare-2/when-minnesota-parents-give-up-their-kids-to-foster-care-an-imprint-look-at-a-nationwide-predicament/261820#:~:text=Cases%20of%20Foster%20Care%20'Placement%20for%20Treatment',(4%2C166)%20(489)%20Data%20retrieved%20in%20March%202025." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">According to <em>The Imprint</em></a>, in 2024, there were 4,166 new entries into foster care, and roughly 11% of these were for "placement for treatment".</li> <li><strong>Age Profile</strong>: <a href="https://dcyf.mn.gov/sites/default/files/2025-09/permanency-services-foster-care-2025.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Youth ages 14-21</a> account for over one-quarter of children in foster care.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>How You Can Support Minnesota Children and Youth</strong>:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>Mentor or Volunteer</strong>: <a href="https://nationalcasagal.org/celebrating-national-foster-care-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Become a CASA/GAL volunteer</a> to advocate for a child's best interests in court.</li> <li><strong>Support Local Families</strong>: Organizations like <a href="https://www.fosteradoptmn.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Foster Adopt Minnesota</a> and <a href="https://www.fostertogethermn.org/how-to-help" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Foster Together MN</a> provide essential resources, from toiletries to respite care, for families in our community.</li> <li><strong>Consider Fostering</strong>: There is an ongoing shortage of foster families in Minnesota. You can learn more about the licensing process through the <a href="https://dcyf.mn.gov/adoption-foster-care-and-kinship-supports" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Minnesota Department of Children, Youth, and Families</a>.</li> </ul>7463362026-05-07T15:14:02ZNews640NewsOBFF celebrates Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month!eng641A flag in colors of gold, blue, green, and red, symbolizing Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander heritage month/ombudfam/assets/2025%20AANHPI%20Unity%20and%20Resistance%20Flag_tcm1105-745228.jpgA flag in colors of gold, blue, green, and red, symbolizing Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander heritage month/ombudfam/assets/2025%20AANHPI%20Unity%20and%20Resistance%20Flag_tcm1105-745228.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-745200" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-04-30T18:48:42ZOBFF celebrates Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month!May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month in Minnesota</strong>! This month commemorates the arrival of the first recorded Japanese immigrant to the United States on May 7, 1843. The Office of Ombudsperson for Families honors the AANHPI community and the contributions they have made to the state of Minnesota throughout its history.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition to various proclamations honoring this important recognition of AANHPI Heritage, there will be two commemorative bridge lightings in the colors of the AANHPI Unity and Resistance Flag: the I-35W St. Anthony Falls Bridge will be lit on May 2, and the Lowry Avenue Bridge will be lit on May 5.</p> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">AANHPI Unity and Resistance Flag</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The flag contains the following colors:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Deep blue: represents the ocean and the unity of AANHPI communities</li> <li>Gold: honors prosperity and resilience</li> <li>Green: symbolizes land, growth, and the environment</li> <li>Red: acknowledges prosperity, joy, and the strength of resistance in times of adversity</li> </ul> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Proclamations in honor of AANHPI Month</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="/ombudfam/assets/05.01.26%20Asian%20American%2C%20Native%20Hawaiian%2C%20and%20Pacific%20Islander%20Heritage%20Month_tcm1105-745195.pdf" title="State of Minnesota AANHPI Month 2026" target="_blank" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:title="State of Minnesota AANHPI Month 2026">State of Minnesota proclamation</a>, signed by Governor Tim Walz</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="/ombudfam/assets/AANHPI%20Proclamation_tcm1105-745196.pdf" title="City of Saint Paul AANHPI Month Proclamation 2026" target="_blank" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" xlink:title="City of Saint Paul AANHPI Month Proclamation 2026">City of Saint Paul proclamation</a>, signed by Mayor Kaohly Her</p>7452006717102026-04-30T19:36:12ZNews640NewsOBFF celebrates International Women's Day on March 8 by honoring Minnesotan women who have worked to make our state better.eng641A banner depicting animated versions of different women, with Women's History Month in white text overlayed./ombudfam/assets/Womens%20History%20Month_tcm1105-672173.jpgA banner depicting animated versions of different women, with Women's History Month in white text overlayed./ombudfam/assets/Womens%20History%20Month_tcm1105-672173.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-728910" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-03-05T17:15:25ZOBFF celebrates International Women's Day on March 8 by honoring Minnesotan women who have worked to make our state better.OBFF Honors Minnesota Women1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Happy International Women's Day, March 8</strong>!</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Office of Ombudsperson for Families recognizes and honors courageous women of Minnesota, past and present, who have dedicated their time, talent, and at times, unfortunately, even their lives in the pursuit of justice. This Women's History Month, OBFF would especially like to remember and honor:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>Representative Melissa Hortman</strong>: Speaker Emerita of the House of Representatives</li> <li><strong>Renee Good</strong>: killed by ICE</li> <li><strong>Nekima Levy Armstrong</strong>: Civil Rights Attorney</li> <li><strong>Mayor Kaohly Her</strong>: Mayor of Saint Paul</li> <li><strong>Rosa Tock</strong>: Former Executive Director of the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs</li> </ul>7289102026-03-06T21:41:28ZNews640NewsThe Office of Ombudsperson for Families has openings on the Asian Pacific Families Board.eng671704671707Minnesota Office of Ombudsperson for Families Logo/ombudfam/assets/OBFF-Logo-Vertical_tcm1105-670791.jpgMinnesota Office of Ombudsperson for Families Logo/ombudfam/assets/OBFF-Logo-Vertical_tcm1105-670791.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-728225" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-02-27T21:31:02ZOBFF has openings for new board members on the Asian Pacific Families Board!Openings starting February 20261105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ombudsperson Board For Asian-Pacific Families</strong> is looking for interested candidates to fill open board member seats.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">This is an advisory board that meets on a regular basis to advise and provide support to the <strong>Ombudsperson for Asian-Pacific Families</strong> on matters that are important and related to their duties and activities, and to help advocate for better outcomes for Minnesotan Asian-Pacific families and children in the child welfare system mostly due to poverty, cultural and background differences, linguistic barriers, lack of culturally responsive and appropriate services to meet their needs, lack of understanding the child protection laws; just to name a few.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>The Board plays a critical advisory and governance role</strong>. Its duties include:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Assisting the Ombudsperson in identifying priority issues and selecting matters for attention;</li> <li>Helping develop policies, plans, and programs that support the Ombudsperson’s functions;</li> <li>Establishing culturally grounded protocols for engaging with communities of color;</li> <li>Advising on procedures for the Ombudsperson’s statutory <strong>subpoena power</strong> to compel testimony or evidence;</li> <li>Providing reports and recommendations aimed at improving competence, efficiency, justice, and the protection of families’ rights.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Board service is a volunteer leadership commitment that provides a meaningful opportunity to influence statewide equity and family well-being. Board Members typically serve a <strong>four-year term</strong> and may be reappointed. The Asian Pacific Families Board meets virtually <strong>every third Tuesday of even-numbered months from 5:00 – 6:30pm</strong>. Members also participate in <strong>joint community-specific board meetings</strong> throughout the year, as well as periodic committee work or community engagement activities.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">If you would like to learn more or be considered for appointment, you can send an inquiry to <a href="mailto:Thanh.L.Glasco@state.mn.us">Thanh.L.Glasco@state.mn.us</a>, or you may also apply directly through the <a href="https://commissionsandappointments.sos.mn.gov/Agency/Details/167" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="Ombudsperson Board for Asian Pacific Families Application">Office of the Secretary of State website</a>.</p>7282256717102026-02-27T21:48:51ZNews640News641Minnesota Office of Ombudsperson for Families Logo/ombudfam/assets/OBFF-Logo-Vertical_tcm1105-670791.jpgMinnesota Office of Ombudsperson for Families Logo/ombudfam/assets/OBFF-Logo-Vertical_tcm1105-670791.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-719135" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2026-01-09T16:24:03ZOBFF invites Minnesotans to join in a Day of Unity on January 9.January 9, 20261105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Office of Ombudsperson for Families joins Minnesotans in mourning the murder of <strong>Renee Nicole Good</strong> on January 7, 2026. This tragedy is the result of governance designed to generate fear, headlines, and conflict — not public safety. Right now, the top priority for state and local leaders is keeping residents safe. If you plan to protest, please exercise your First Amendment rights safely and peacefully.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">OBFF asks Minnesotans to join Governor Walz in a <strong>Day of Unity</strong> today, January 9. This is a great opportunity to help fellow Minnesotans in acts of service and come together for peace and healing. Read Governor Walz's full <a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/attachments/MNGOV/2026/01/08/file_attachments/3515513/01.9.2026%20Day%20of%20Unity.Signed.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="Day of Unity January 9">Day of Unity Proclamation</a>.</p>7191352026-01-09T16:37:46ZNews640News673155671704/ombudfam/assets/SmilingBlackFamily_tcm1105-619514.jpeg/ombudfam/assets/SmilingBlackFamily_tcm1105-619514.jpeg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-717430" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-12-24T14:43:11ZA message from Dr. Joan Blakey, PhD, MSW, LMSW, on the Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act.from the University of Minnesota College of Education and Human Development Burton Brief1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Dr. Joan Blakey, PhD, MSW, LMSW</strong>, and director of the School of Social Work at the University of Minnesota, recently posted her thoughts on the importance of the <strong>Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act (MAAFPACWDA)</strong>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">"At its core, the act strengthens expectations for <strong>family preservation and reunification</strong>," Dr. Blakey writes. "It requires active efforts—meaning meaningful, culturally responsive actions—to keep children safely with their families whenever possible and to reunify families when removal does occur. The law shifts the focus from surveillance and punishment to prevention, partnership, and support."</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://view.ecommunications2.umn.edu/?qs=3c8ac941d8b87bf6be773e96d946e912da5c40bfb14b318e2715ec94b95096faa30b3e093d3cacbc6381aa19e708798c5db4149778d9ee83c273b700ab30315efbe486ef41bcb67a9d484f56523064e1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="Message from Joan Blakey">Read Dr. Blakey's full message in the Burton Brief</a> from the University of Minnesota College of Education and Human Development.</p>7174306717112025-12-24T15:12:06ZNews640News673156Minnesota Office of Ombudsperson for Families Logo/ombudfam/assets/OBFF-Logo-Vertical_tcm1105-670791.jpgMinnesota Office of Ombudsperson for Families Logo/ombudfam/assets/OBFF-Logo-Vertical_tcm1105-670791.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-714392" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-11-25T19:41:16ZInformation for those affected by the ending of Temporary Protected Status.News update1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The federal government recently ended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for refugees from Myanmar, which will directly affect Minnesota's Karen community by risking their deportation back to Myanmar. Alicia Buckner, the executive director of the Karen Organization of Minnesota, told the Minnesota Star Tribune about her concerns regarding the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Myanmar.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced its intention to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somali Minnesotans before the current expiration date of March 2026. Minnesota is home to the largest Somali population in the United States, with the majority being U.S. citizens or legal residents. Currently, just over 400 Somalis in Minnesota hold TPS, which is a protection offered to foreign-born individuals who cannot return to their home country safely. This status provides various benefits for a limited time, including the ability to obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), travel authorization, and protection from detention by DHS based solely on their immigration status in the United States.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">These decisions will significantly affect families and the community. If you have questions about your rights or need to know what to do in case of an immigration encounter, there are resources to help you:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li><strong>Free Legal Clinics</strong>: Immigration attorneys are available through Community Clinics, Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid, and Volunteer Lawyers Network.</li> <li><strong>Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs</strong>: Drop-in hours are held every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 2:00 - 4:00pm at 777 E. Lake St., Minneapolis, MN</li> </ul>7143926717116717102025-12-09T20:19:25ZNews640News641A glass plaque honoring Ombudsperson Ann Hill for her 35 years service to Black families in Minnesota./ombudfam/assets/AH%20MNABSW%20Award_tcm1105-710394.jpgA glass plaque honoring Ombudsperson Ann Hill for her 35 years service to Black families in Minnesota./ombudfam/assets/AH%20MNABSW%20Award_tcm1105-710394.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-710392" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-27T15:47:07ZAnn Hill, Ombudsperson for African American Families, was honored by the Minnesota Association of Black Social Workers on Friday, October 3, 2025.1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Ann Hill, Ombudsperson for African American Families</strong>, was honored by the <strong>Minnesota Association of Black Social Workers</strong> on Friday, October 3, 2025. Ombudsperson Hill expressed her gratitude, saying she was “humbled and honored” to receive this award after 35 years of service to Black families in Minnesota. She also thanked the Minnesota Association of Black Social Workers, both past and present, for their support and encouragement. Although progress has been made, she acknowledged that there is still much work to do.</p>7103926717112025-10-27T13:00:07ZNews640News641Minnesota Office of Ombudsperson for Families Logo/ombudfam/assets/OBFF-Logo-Vertical_tcm1105-670791.jpgMinnesota Office of Ombudsperson for Families Logo/ombudfam/assets/OBFF-Logo-Vertical_tcm1105-670791.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-710393" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-22T15:48:41ZThe Office of Ombudsperson for Families welcomes Josephine Dickson, who joins the OBFF team as the office’s investigator.OBFF's team is expanding!1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Office of Ombudsperson for Families welcomes <strong>Josephine Dickson</strong>, who joins the OBFF team as the office’s investigator.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Josephine comes to the OBFF with a wealth of experience in child protection, having worked as an Assessment Family Case Manager for the Indiana Department of Child Services. Josephine also has experience working in health care and is currently studying to complete a Master of Social Work degree (MSW). Josephine is also, most importantly, the proud mother of an almost-10 year old.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The OBFF is excited to welcome Josephine to the team in this new role, and we look forward to the addition of her position helping us increase the office’s capacity and ability to serve Minnesotans across the state.</p>7103932025-10-22T15:51:41ZNews640News671705641A woman with dark hair smiles at her phone./ombudfam/assets/Woman%20Smiling%20at%20Phone_tcm1105-708796.jpgA woman with dark hair smiles at her phone./ombudfam/assets/Woman%20Smiling%20at%20Phone_tcm1105-708796.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-708785" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-10T16:51:41ZTaking care of mental health is important. Here are a few resources to help today and always.October 10 is World Mental Health Day!1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">October 10 is <strong>World Mental Health Day</strong>. Taking care of one's mental health is vital, and this day acknowledges the importance of mental health and addressing stigmas around it.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Below are a few resources you can check out to learn more about mental health, find help, and advocate for stronger mental health access in your community (listed in alphabetical order):</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>The Center for Advanced Studies in Child Welfare (CASCW) <a href="https://cascw.umn.edu/professional-development/podcasts/chemical-and-mental-health-podcast-series" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">podcast series on Chemical and Mental Health</a></li> <li><a href="https://mhanational.org/bipoc-mental-health/bipoc-mental-health-month/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mental Health America's BIPOC Mental Health Toolkit</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/mentalhealth.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Minnesota Department of Health information on Mental Health and Well-being</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nami.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)</a></li> <li>The National Council for Mental Wellbeing <a href="https://www.thenationalcouncil.org/mental-health-awareness-month/mham-toolkit-checklist/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mental Health Awareness Checklist</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.ramseycountymn.gov/residents/health-medical/clinics-services/mental-health-crisis-services/mental-health-urgent-care" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ramsey County Mental Health Urgent Care</a></li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Remember, you are not alone</strong>.</p>7087852025-10-09T19:25:26ZNews640News673155Keeping Families Connected Minnesota Logo/ombudfam/assets/KFCMN%20Logo_tcm1105-704127.pngKeeping Families Connected Minnesota Logo/ombudfam/assets/KFCMN%20Logo_tcm1105-704127.png<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-708543" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-10-07T14:02:51ZKeeping Families Together Minnesota is a community nonprofit created to bridge the gaps in legal services to families impacted by Minnesota's child welfare system.A new resource for families impacted by child welfare1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Keeping Families Connected Minnesota (KFCMN)</strong> is a community nonprofit created to bridge the gaps in legal services to families, including relatives and kin, impacted by Minnesota's child welfare system.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">KFCMN works to prevent family separation by providing legal services and equity-based child welfare policy reform. The organization uses an interdisciplinary model, with a team including attorneys, a social worker, and a case navigator with lived experience in the child welfare system. KFCMN provides the following legal services in a holistic manner: prevention-based advocacy (delegations of parental authority, eviction expungement, public benefits support, etc.), child protection-related advocacy (foster care licensing, adoptions, etc.), and advocacy after child protection case (visitation and contact advocacy, support for compliance with contact agreements, transfers of custody). In certain cases, KFCMN attorneys can provide full representation to relatives.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For urgent advice, you can reach the KFCMN hotline at <strong>+1 (612) 424-6958</strong>. Otherwise, <a href="https://kfcmn.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learn more on their website</a> or email <a href="mailto:info@kfcmn.org">info@kfcmn.org</a> with questions.</p>7085432025-10-07T14:20:56ZNews640News641Facing Race, Changing the Narrative logo/ombudfam/assets/Facing%20Race%20Logo_tcm1105-706298.pngFacing Race, Changing the Narrative logo/ombudfam/assets/Facing%20Race%20Logo_tcm1105-706298.png<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-706187" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-18T19:02:36ZCongratulations to former senator Patricia Torres Ray!The Saint Paul & Minnesota Facing Race Awards1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <strong>Saint Paul &amp; Minnesota Foundation</strong> has awarded former Minnesota Senator <strong>Patricia Torres Ray</strong> with a <strong>2025 Facing Race Award</strong>! The Facing Race Award recognizes Minnesotans who advocate for anti-racism, including challenging harmful narratives, working towards unity instead of division, and pushing for racial justice and equity.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Patricia Torres Ray has been involved in public service to Minnesota for 35 years, including serving as the first Ombudsperson for Families for 7 years after advocating for the agency's creation. In 2006, she became the first Latina elected to the Minnesota Senate, and after 16 years serving in the senate, Patricia opened her own firm, PTR Associates.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Join the Saint Paul &amp; Minnesota Foundation on Thursday, October 16, at 6:00pm for a virtual celebration of the Facing Race Award winners! <a href="https://spmcf.zoom.us/webinar/register/7117576095304/WN_7_qCHuXnQ2Gguf9lxsQXJg#/registration" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Register for the online celebration</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://spmcf.org/what-we-do/facing-race-awards" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Read about the other winners</a> of the 2025 Facing Race Awards, and congratulations to Patricia Torres Ray!</p>7061872025-09-19T20:46:14ZNews640News641671709Hispanic Heritage Month banner containing flags from Spanish-speaking countries/ombudfam/assets/Hispanic%20Heritage%20Month%20Banner_tcm1105-644661.jpgHispanic Heritage Month banner containing flags from Spanish-speaking countries/ombudfam/assets/Hispanic%20Heritage%20Month%20Banner_tcm1105-644661.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-705424" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-09-12T16:19:30ZThe Office of Ombudsperson for Families recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 - October 15, 2025.September 15 - October 15, 20251105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Office of Ombudsperson for Families recognizes <strong>Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15 - October 15, 2025</strong>!</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">There are many events happening throughout Minnesota in celebration of Hispanic and Latine heritage and culture. Here are a few events to check out!</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Saturday, September 20: Latino Fest, Rochester - <a href="https://www.achla-mn.org/latino-fest" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Event Information</a></li> <li>Sunday, September 21: <span lang="es" xml:lang="es">Celebrando Juntos: Celebración del Mes de la Herencia Hispana</span>, Bloomington - <a href="https://www.bloomingtonmn.gov/equity/briefing/celebrating-hispanic-heritage-month-2025-09-03" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Event Information</a></li> <li>Thursday, September 25: La Familia Latino Heritage Celebration, Saint Paul - <a href="https://www.aguilarproductions.com/home.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Event Information</a></li> <li>Saturday, September 27: Learning from Place: 100 Years of Mexican American Culture on St. Paul's West Side, St. Paul - <a href="https://www.mnhum.org/event/learning-from-place-100-years-of-mexican-american-culture-on-st-pauls-west-side/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Event Information</a></li> <li>October 8 - 12: Cine Latino Film Festival, Minneapolis - <a href="https://mspfilm.org/cine-latino/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Event Information</a></li> <li>Friday, October 17: CLUES Gala Latina, Minneapolis - <a href="https://clues.org/get-involved/events/gala-latina/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Event Information</a></li> </ul>7054246717122025-09-16T14:08:55ZNews640News671704671709671706Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs logo/ombudfam/assets/MCLA-logo_tcm1105-668921.pngMinnesota Council on Latino Affairs logo/ombudfam/assets/MCLA-logo_tcm1105-668921.png<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-700646" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-08-04T17:43:59ZThe Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs is conducting a community needs survey.Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <strong>Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs (MCLA)</strong> is partnering with <strong>Management Analysis and Development (MAD)</strong>, a separate state government division, to <strong>conduct a community needs survey</strong> in Minnesota. The goal of the survey is to understand the most important issues currently affecting our communities, to have a better sense of how existing state programs benefit Latinos/es, and to learn what more the state should be doing to ensure Latino/e prosperity and wellbeing.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Your response to this survey is completely confidential and anonymous, but your voice will help MCLA more authentically educate and advise legislators on the aspirations of our communities. <a href="https://mad.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0pLwEH2NqzszgNw" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Complete the survey online</strong></a>!</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">For questions, please contact Aaron Sepulveda, Legislative and Policy Director in Education, at <a href="mailto:aaron.sepulveda@state.mn.us">aaron.sepulveda@state.mn.us</a>.</p>7006466717122025-08-08T13:58:53ZNews640News671704673155Minnesota Judicial Branch logo/ombudfam/assets/MJBLogo_Color_WhtBkgrd_tcm1105-685757.jpgMinnesota Judicial Branch logo/ombudfam/assets/MJBLogo_Color_WhtBkgrd_tcm1105-685757.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-698721" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-18T14:17:20ZThe Supreme Court Council on Child Protection and Maltreatment Prevention is developing recommendations to improve Minnesota’s child protection system and prevent maltreatment. The Council is seeking your input to help develop these recommendations, which will be provided in a report to the Minnesota Legislature, the Governor, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.Minnesota Supreme Court Council1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <strong>Supreme Court Council on Child Protection and Maltreatment Prevention</strong> is developing recommendations to improve Minnesota’s child protection system and prevent maltreatment. The Council seeks your input to help develop these recommendations, which will be provided in a report to the Minnesota Legislature, the Governor, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Council is looking for input from the following groups:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>those who are impacted by the child protection system,</li> <li>those who work in the system, and</li> <li>the broader community around families in the system.</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Council encourages anyone with a perspective on child protection and the prevention of child maltreatment to take this survey, which is relatively short. <strong><a href="https://surveys.questionpro.com/a/TakeSurvey?tt=pl9tQTLWRr4ECHrPeIW9eQ%3D%3D" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Access the survey</a> and complete it by Monday, August 18</strong>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Responses to this survey are voluntary and anonymous. Your response will be combined with others and shared with the Council and the wider public at a summary level. Any written comments you provide on this survey may be quoted, unless they identify you. Comments that directly or indirectly identify you or others are confidential under Minnesota Supreme Court Order ADM24-8001 and will not be shared.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Please contact staff to the Supreme Court Council on Child Protection with any questions: <a href="mailto:SCCPC@courts.state.mn.us">SCCPC@courts.state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Thank you for taking the time to share your perspective with the Council.</p>6987212025-08-29T18:26:52ZNews640News641Three members of OBFF staff in purple t-shirts smiling next to the MNclusive banner at Twin Cities Pride./ombudfam/assets/OBFF%20at%20Pride%202025_tcm1105-695710.jpgThree members of OBFF staff in purple t-shirts smiling next to the MNclusive banner at Twin Cities Pride./ombudfam/assets/OBFF%20at%20Pride%202025_tcm1105-695710.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-695706" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-07-01T15:14:02ZOBFF staff tabled at Twin Cities Pride over the weekend!OBFF in the Community1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">OBFF staff tabled with the State of Minnesota's LGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group, MNclusive, at <strong>Twin Cities Pride</strong>! Ombudsperson Manuel Zuniga, Deputy Ombudsperson Beth Chaplin, and Office Manager Katie Heilman helped spread the word about the Council on LGBTQIA2S+ Minnesotans Community Needs Survey and ran trivia games for members of the community.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Twin Cities Pride Festival is held at the end of June every year to commemorate the Stonewall Riots and celebrate the LGBTQIA2S+ community in Minnesota. Thank you to everyone who stopped by the MNclusive booth!</p>6957062025-08-29T18:30:02ZNews640News641Manuel Zuniga smiles while standing next to the information table for OBFF at the Anika Foundation Juneteenth celebration./ombudfam/assets/MBZ%20at%20Juneteenth%202025_tcm1105-694607.jpgManuel Zuniga smiles while standing next to the information table for OBFF at the Anika Foundation Juneteenth celebration./ombudfam/assets/MBZ%20at%20Juneteenth%202025_tcm1105-694607.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-694605" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-25T14:39:32ZThe Office of Ombudsperson for Families shared resources with the community at the State Capitol's Juneteenth celebration on June 21.OBFF in the Community1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Office of Ombudsperson for Families had a table at the State Capitol's <strong>Juneteenth</strong> celebration on June 21. Despite the heat that day, Ombudsperson Manuel Zuniga was able to share information about OBFF with members of the community on the Capitol lawn, as part of the event's Career and Resource Fair!</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The State Capitol's Juneteenth celebration is done through the <a href="https://www.theanikafoundation.org/juneteenth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ANIKA Foundation</a> and brings together members of the community and organizations to celebrate Juneteenth and the culture, journey, and contributions of people of African descent.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Thank you to everyone who came out and braved the heat!</p>6946056717112025-08-29T18:29:46ZNews640News641<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-694293" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-23T16:09:37ZLast weekend, our state experienced an unimaginable tragedy when a gunman killed Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and seriously wounded Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette.OBFF Statement1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Last weekend, our state experienced an unimaginable tragedy when a gunman killed Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and seriously wounded Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota state troopers, in partnership with local, state, and federal partners, have the suspect in custody.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Representative Melissa Hortman</strong> worked alongside Representative Rena Moran and Representative Esther Agbaje to finally find a pathway for passing the <strong><a href="https://dcyf.mn.gov/partners-and-providers/child-safety-and-permanency/minnesota-african-american-family-preservation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act (MAAFPACWDA)</a></strong>. She also appointed Rep. Moran as Chair of the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, the first person of color to chair that committee.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Senator John Hoffman</strong> has long been a respected and deeply valued member of the <strong><a href="https://mn.gov/dhs/general-public/about-dhs/advisory-councils-task-forces/cultural-ethnic-communities-council.jsp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cultural and Ethnic Communities Leadership Council (CECLC)</a></strong> and has supported the mission and vision of OBFF. His passionate and unwavering advocacy for the council’s and Agency’s mission—to reduce disparities and promote equity across communities—has strengthened our collective voice. In addition, Senator Hoffman serves as co-vice chair of the <strong><a href="https://www.lcc.mn.gov/tfcp/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Legislative Task Force on Child Protection</a></strong>. His commitment to systems change and the amplification of diverse community perspectives has had meaningful impact on our work and the lives of countless Minnesotans.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">We wish to extend a heartfelt thank you the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, including the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the State Patrol, and Capitol Security, for their continued diligence in keeping employees and the public safe. We also want to thank the hundreds of local, state and federal officials for their efforts to keep Minnesotans safe.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Thank you for your dedication and resilience as we ensure the commitment to public service exemplified by Speaker Emerita Hortman and Senator Hoffman continues in all of us.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rep. Hortman and her husband Mark, along with their dog Gilbert, will lie in state at the Capitol on Friday, June 27, from 12:00 - 5:00pm. <a href="https://www.startribune.com/melissa-and-mark-hortman-will-lie-in-state-at-capitol-friday-private-funeral-to-be-held-saturday/601378016" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Read more details from the Minnesota Star Tribune</a>.</p>6942932025-08-29T18:32:47ZNews640News671704641Minnesota Office of Ombudsperson for Families Logo/ombudfam/assets/OBFF-Logo-Vertical_tcm1105-670791.jpgMinnesota Office of Ombudsperson for Families Logo/ombudfam/assets/OBFF-Logo-Vertical_tcm1105-670791.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-693937" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-06-17T21:02:15ZThe Office of the Ombudsperson for Families is looking for an Investigator. Come work with OBFF!OBFF job opportunity1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Office of Ombudsperson for Families (OBFF) is hiring!</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The OBFF is seeking qualified applicants for the position of <strong>Investigator</strong>. This newly created position will fill the important role of investigating complaints made by the family or loved ones of children in out-of-home placement (foster care/kinship care) due to a child protection matter. The investigator will work with the Ombudspersons of OBFF to ensure that the laws of Minnesota are being followed without the impact of racism or bias, and that the families are treated in a fair and reasonable manner.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">If you know anyone that may be interested in applying for this position, please direct them to the job posting on the <a href="https://mn.gov/mmb/careers/search-for-jobs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">State of Minnesota Careers website</a> (search for <strong>Job ID 86904</strong>). If you or a potential applicant have any questions, please contact <a href="mailto:obff.info@state.mn.us">obff.info@state.mn.us</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Applications will be accepted now through Tuesday, July 8. <strong><a href="https://careers.mn.gov/psp/mnjob/MNCAREERS/HRCR/c/HRS_HRAM_FL.HRS_CG_SEARCH_FL.GBL?Page=HRS_APP_JBPST_FL&amp;Action=U&amp;FOCUS=Applicant&amp;SiteId=1001&amp;JobOpeningId=86904&amp;PostingSeq=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apply online today</a></strong>!</p>6939372025-08-29T18:30:22ZNews640News641Three new appointees to the City of Saint Paul Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity Commission, all smiling./ombudfam/assets/Screenshot%202025-05-21%20082508_tcm1105-685752.jpgThree new appointees to the City of Saint Paul Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity Commission, all smiling./ombudfam/assets/Screenshot%202025-05-21%20082508_tcm1105-685752.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-685745" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-05-22T13:47:13ZAs part of his community outreach initiatives, Ombudsperson Manuel Zuniga has been appointed as a commissioner of the City of Saint Paul HREEO Commission.Ombudsperson Update1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Ombudsperson Manuel Zuniga has been appointed as a commissioner to the City of Saint Paul <strong>Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity (HREEO) Commission</strong>. This commission is responsible for monitoring and advising the department on promoting justice and equity and fostering hiring policies that maximize the diversity of the city's workforce. The members of this council are appointed by the mayor.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The commissioner appointment began on May 14, with the swearing-in ceremony on May 20. Ombudsperson Zuniga plans to use the opportunity as a commissioner to connect with residents of the City of Saint Paul as part of his community outreach initiatives.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Congratulations to Ombudsperson Zuniga for this great opportunity!</p>6857452025-08-29T18:28:06ZNews640News671704Three members of the Asian American community smiling at an AAPI Leadership Conference/ombudfam/assets/API%20Board%20at%20AAPI%20Rising%20Summit_smaller_tcm1105-681603.jpgThree members of the Asian American community smiling at an AAPI Leadership Conference/ombudfam/assets/API%20Board%20at%20AAPI%20Rising%20Summit_smaller_tcm1105-681603.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-680245" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-04-24T15:45:00ZOmbudsperson Manuel Zuniga and OBFF Board Members attended the CAPI AAPI Rising Leadership Summit on April 21.OBFF in the Community1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Ombudsperson Manuel Zuniga, OBFF API Board Chair Brook Mallak, and OBFF Board Member Thanh Glasco attended the <strong>CAPI AAPI Rising Leadership Summit</strong> on April 21. This event brought together leaders in the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community for a day of networking, panel discussions, and leadership development.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The event featured the following speakers:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>Christine Chen, Executive Director for APIA Vote</li> <li>Michelle Li, Cofounder of Very Asian Foundation</li> <li>Sam Hyun, Director of Government Relations at The Asian American Foundation</li> <li>Asma Mohammed, Director of Advocacy at Reviving the Islamic Sisterhood for Empowerment</li> <li>Kao Kalia Yang, Award winning Hmong writer, speaker, and teacher</li> <li>Dr. Bruce Corrie, Professor of Economics at Concordia University</li> <li>Chenue Her, anchor at FOX9 News, who served as the event's emcee</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://www.capiusa.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Learn more about the work CAPI does in the community</a>. Thank you to CAPI for putting on such a great event!</p>6802456717102025-08-29T18:29:30ZNews640News671705A banner depicting animated versions of different women, with Women's History Month in white text overlayed./ombudfam/assets/Womens%20History%20Month_tcm1105-672173.jpgA banner depicting animated versions of different women, with Women's History Month in white text overlayed./ombudfam/assets/Womens%20History%20Month_tcm1105-672173.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-672178" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-03-17T19:36:32ZThe OBFF honors six women who have fought for equity, tolerance, and more.OBFF Statement1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>The Office of Ombudsperson for Families celebrates Women's History Month in March!</strong> The office would like to highlight the following women and their contributions to equity, tolerance, and more:</p> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Titilayo Bediako</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Titilayo Bediako is an educator and founder of We Win Institute, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening educational outcomes for Black children in the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area. She was an advisor and founding member of the Minnesota Department of Human Services CECLC. Bediako served as a public school teacher in Minneapolis and in 2002 received the National Education Association Trensholm Award for her work in educational innovation and dedication to at-risk youth. Through WE WIN, Bediako also educates members of the community about Kwanzaa and organizes a community Kwanzaa event where students can showcase the Seven Principles and collaborate with local performers and community leaders. <a href="https://www.we-win.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Learn more about WE WIN Institute</a>.</p> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Dolores Huerta</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Dolores Clara Fernandez Huerta is a founder of the United Farm Workers Association and a labor rights and Chicano civil rights activist. Huerta began her career in activism in 1955 by cofounding the Stockton Chapter of the Community Service Organization, working to increase voter registration and fight for Hispanic economic improvement. She eventually met César Chávez, and the two founded the National Farm Workers Association, which later became the United Farm Workers' Union. Huerta served as vice president of this organization until 1999. In 1965, Huerta helped organize the Delano strike of 5,000 grape workers. She continued to fight for labor rights in the farm workers' industry, including a 1973 national grape boycott that led to the implementation of the California Agricultural Labor Relations Act of 1975. In addition to her work as a lobbyist for workers' legislative representation, Huerta worked to elect more Latinos and women to public office in the 1990s and 2000s, as well as championing women's issues. Among her many honors, Huerta was awarded Eleanor Roosevelt Human Rights Award in 1998 and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2012. <a href="https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/dolores-huerta" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Read more about Dolores Huerta</a> and <a href="https://doloreshuerta.org/dolores-huerta/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">learn about the Dolores Huerta Foundation</a>.</p> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Yuri Kochiyama</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Yuri Kochiyama was an activist who worked with Malcolm X. After her experiences in a Japanese internment camp during World War II and later moving to Harlem in the 1960s, she became an advocate for civil rights and political prisoners. The apartment she shared with her husband and children became a gathering space for prominent thinkers and Civil Rights leaders, granting it the nickname, "Grand Central Station." She was present at the assassination of Malcolm X and continued fighting for the rights of the Black and Puerto Rican communities. After the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, she condemned the rise in Islamophobia, comparing it to her experiences in the internment camps after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. </p> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Patricia Torres Ray</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Patricia Torres Ray is a former Minnesota State Senator and the first Latina to serve in the Minnesota Senate. In 2010 she was the first woman of color to run as Lieutenant Governor in Minnesota. Among her major policy accomplishments, she authored the Minnesota Homeowners' Bill of Rights, proposed and chaired a committee to address needs of Minnesota parks and trails to create a mapping system used by the DNR to manage and allocate resources, and authored the LEAPS act to update policy for the education of students with limited English proficiency. She represented Minnesota's 62nd and 63rd districts from 2007-2023. Before serving as a state senator, Torres Ray served in other government agencies, including the Office of Ombudsperson for Families and the Department of Human Services. Torres Ray has been a champion for education, environmental issues, health and human services, and economic development.</p> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">KaYing Yang</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">KaYing Yang is a Hmong-American advocate for social justice. Yang was the executive director of the first Hmong women's organization in St. Paul by age 25, and she organized a group of Hmong women to attend the United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women in China in 1995. This was the first time Hmong women had participated in an international conference. She then went to Washington, DC, to head the Southeast Asia Resource Action Center (SERAC) to advocate for civil rights for Asian Americans. In that role she founded many advocacy organizations, as well as working with the White House Initiative on Asian American and Pacific Islanders (WHIAAPI). She then spent a decade in Thailand and Laos, helping to resettle Hmong, Karen, and Burmese refugees. She served as the director of programs and partnerships for the Coalition of Asian American Leaders (CAAL) until 2021. She now serves as the president of RedGreen Rivers, LLC. <a href="https://www.kaying.co/mystory" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Read more about Yang on her website</a>.</p> <h2 xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Nothando Zulu</h2> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Nothando Zulu was a Master Storyteller based in Minnesota. The daughter of Virginia sharecroppers, she moved to Minnesota when she was 16. For much of her career, she served as a drug rehabilitation counselor and program director at Ruth Hawkins YWCA in North Minneapolis. She founded the Black Storytellers Alliance, becoming a Master Storyteller and championing the importance of African oral storytelling. Through this organization, she held a three-day festival of storytelling called "Singin' and Testifyin'." Zulu performed both nationally and internationally, bringing African folk characters and African American sheroes to life. In 2023, Northando and her husband Vusumuzi were awarded one of four 2023 McKnight Culture Bearer Fellowships for their work in sharing cultural practices across generations. <a href="https://nzulu.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Learn more about Zulu</a> on her website.</p>6721782025-08-29T18:33:23ZNews640News671704673155Minnesota Guardian ad Litem Board logo/ombudfam/assets/MN%20GaL%20Logo_tcm1105-669046.PNGMinnesota Guardian ad Litem Board logo/ombudfam/assets/MN%20GaL%20Logo_tcm1105-669046.PNG<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-670025" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-14T20:32:07ZThe Minnesota Guardian ad Litem Program has several job opportunities!State job opportunities1105The <a href="https://mn.gov/guardian-ad-litem/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Minnesota Guardian ad Litem Program</a> has several job opportunities available! <a href="https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/guardianadlitem?" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Read more and apply online</a>.6700252025-08-29T18:26:52ZNews640News671706671709Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs logo/ombudfam/assets/MCLA-logo_tcm1105-668921.png/ombudfam/assets/MCLA%20Logo%20RGB_tcm1105-321082.png<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-668917" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-02-11T15:48:35ZA message from Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs Executive Director Rosa Tock on the myths surrounding undocumented immigrants.Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>This statement originally appears in the February 2025 newsletter for the Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs:</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">As an immigrant to this country, and a resident in the state of Minnesota for twenty years, I am saddened and extremely worried about the immigration policies being implemented by the current administration in Washington. At MCLA, we work for the betterment of Latinos in our state, regardless of immigration status. The policies, legislation, and programs that we analyze and the recommendations we suggest impact all Minnesotans, including those of us who were born in other countries. MCLA embraces the long standing tradition of welcoming and integrating everyone into the social and economic fabric of our state and nation.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Myths continue to prevail regarding undocumented immigrants. One of the most common myths is that immigrants, and the undocumented in particular, commit more crimes than people who are born here. This is not supported by evidence. As the American Immigration Council explained in a 2024 <a href="https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/research/debunking-myth-immigrants-and-crime" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study</a>: "a robust body of research shows that welcoming immigrants into American communities not only does not increase crime, but can actually strengthen public safety. In fact, immigrants—including undocumented immigrants—are less likely to commit crimes than the U.S.-born. This is true at the national, state, county, and neighborhood levels, and for both violent and non-violent crime."</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">At the same time, there is the misperception that undocumented immigrants steal jobs or take public services for free. Actually, <a href="https://minnesotareformer.com/2024/07/30/study-undocumented-immigrants-paid-222-million-in-minnesota-taxes-in-2022/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">as reported by the Minnesota Reformer</a>, undocumented migrants contribute to the fiscal base of the state far more than they take. Undocumented immigrants pay more than $200 million in Minnesota taxes each year, according to a July 2024 report from the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. Nationwide, undocumented migrants pay close to $100 billion in taxes annually when including federal receipts.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">“For every 1 million undocumented immigrants who reside in the country, public services receive $8.9 billion in additional tax revenue,” the analysts explain.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In addition, the Hispanic Advocacy and Economic Empowerment through Research (HACER) <a href="https://hacer-mn.org/undocumented-latino-workers-in-mn/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a> that in Southern Minnesota, the direct economic generation by undocumented Latino workers amounts to $4.1 billion and $5.8 billion. Also, their overall economic production ranges from $6.5 billion to $9.3 billion. For every 10 employed undocumented Latino workers, approximately eight jobs are created in Southern Minnesota.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">MCLA stands in solidarity with our immigrant communities and invites the public to dispel myths with facts and evidence, and to base policy decisions and public statements on accurate, fact based information that will be helpful as our neighbors, friends, and family members navigate this new climate.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Supporters of strict immigration enforcement say that they do not want to see raids in workplaces that indiscriminately target all immigrants. But there has already been racial profiling and unfair detentions, as we saw in New Jersey, where a <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/ice-raids-us-military-veteran-detained-warrant-2020137" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. citizen and veteran</a> was wrongly detained by ICE on January 23rd.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Right now, we all know someone who knows someone that has been directly affected and impacted by the ICE detentions in the Twin Cities. I often think that as a U.S. citizen I will be spared from these detentions. But that is not the case anymore. I fear these random arrests, confusion, or just an escalation of detentions so that <a href="https://www.tcinsider.com/p/1-31-2025-ice-increases-arrests-in-st-paul" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ICE can meet their daily quotas</a>.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Just in case, I am carrying with me my Global Entry Card, showing that I have a U.S. passport. <em>Just in case</em>, but none of us should have to live in fear because of who we are.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em>Rosa Tock, Executive Director, Minnesota Council on Latino Affairs</em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/MNMCLA/bulletins/3d09b70#Hiring10" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Read the full MCLA February newsletter online</a>.</p>6689176717122025-08-29T18:28:43ZNews640News673156671705Two men smiling with the OBFF information table in the background./ombudfam/assets/Tet%20Festival%202025%20TG%20and%20MBZ_tcm1105-665104.jpgTwo men smiling with the OBFF information table in the background./ombudfam/assets/Tet%20Festival%202025%20TG%20and%20MBZ_tcm1105-665104.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-665174" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2025-01-14T15:04:55ZThe OBFF sponsored a table at the 2025 Tết Festival on January 11-12.OBFF in the Community1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The OBFF sponsored a table at the <strong>2025 Tết Festival</strong> on January 11-12, and it was a great opportunity to meet members of the Vietnamese community in Minnesota! <strong>Ombudsperson Zuniga and members of the OBFF's Asian Pacific Advisory Board</strong> were available throughout the weekend to share information about the agency with the community. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><img src="/ombudfam/assets/Tet%20Festival%202025%20Table%20Display_tcm1105-665103.jpg" title="Tet Festival 2025 OBFF Table" alt="Tet Festival 2025 OBFF Table" style="float: left; width: 200px; height: 200px; margin-right: 20px;" xlink:title="Tet Festival 2025 OBFF Table" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" />The Tết Festival at Burnsville Center is the largest celebration of Tết in Minnesota. <a href="https://vietnam-minnesota.org" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="Vietnamese Community of Minnesota">Read more about the Vietnamese Community of Minnesota</a> and the work they do. Happy New Year!</p>6651746717102025-08-29T18:30:54ZNews640News641A diverse group of people smiling, nominees for the Islamic Resource Group's Building Bridges Award./ombudfam/assets/3288c857-_tcm1105-653425.jpgA diverse group of people smiling, nominees for the Islamic Resource Group's Building Bridges Award./ombudfam/assets/3288c857-_tcm1105-653425.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-665172" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-13T15:00:44ZOmbudsperson Zuniga was nominated to receive a Building Bridges Award.Ombudsperson Update1105Ombudsperson Zuniga was nominated to receive a <strong xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Building Bridges Award: Special Recognition</strong> from the Islamic Resource Group for his work with Minnesota Employees of Asian Descent (MEAD).6651722025-08-29T18:31:23ZNews640News671705A diverse group of adults smiling on a stage, with various tribal nation flags in the background./ombudfam/assets/TSRT%20Conference%20Photo_tcm1105-650693.jpgA diverse group of adults smiling on a stage, with various tribal nation flags in the background./ombudfam/assets/TSRT%20Conference%20Photo_tcm1105-650693.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-665131" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-11-04T20:55:52ZOmbudsperson Manuel Zuniga attended the annual Tribal-State Relations Training at Treasure Island Resort on October 23-24Ombudsperson Update1105Ombudsperson Manuel Zuniga attended the annual Tribal-State Relations Training at Treasure Island Resort on October 23-24. This training event was sponsored by the Tinta Wita (Prairie Island Indian Community).6651312025-08-29T18:32:17ZNews640News671704671705673155Program page from the Friday, September 27 keynote speech, featuring headshots of Misty Coonce, Jill Kehaulani Esch, and Manuel Zuniga./ombudfam/assets/2024%20GAL%20Keynote%20Page_tcm1105-647319.jpgCover page of the 2024 Guardian ad Litem Training Institute program, featuring an image of Mystic Lake Casino/ombudfam/assets/2024%20GAL%20Training_tcm1105-647317.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-665146" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2024-10-02T21:04:10ZOBFF at the Guardian ad Litem Training Institute.OBFF in the Community1105<strong xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">OBFF at the Guardian ad Litem Training Institute:</strong> Ombudsperson Zuniga represented the OBFF in the ombudsperson panel at the 2024 Guardian ad Litem Training Institute on September 27. <a href="https://mn.gov/guardian-ad-litem" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="Guardian ad Litem Board" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Read more about the Minnesota Guardian ad Litem Board</a>6651462025-08-29T18:31:48ZNews640News671705/ombudfam/assets/MLK%20Coretta%20King%20non%20violence%20activists%20Banner_tcm1105-593742.JPG/ombudfam/assets/Patrick%20Dowd%20and%20Robin%20Matsunaga_tcm1105-593722.jpg<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-665179" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-09-27T14:41:07ZThe 42nd Annual Conference of the United States Ombudsman Association (USOA) was held the 3rd week of September 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia.OBFF in the Community1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The <strong>42nd Annual Conference of the United States Ombudsman Association (USOA)</strong> was held the 3rd week of September 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. Minnesota Ombudsperson for Spanish Speaking Families, Muriel Gubasta, JD, with Ombudsperson Manuel B. Zuniga, Jr. MPP attended the week's festivities on behalf of the Minnesota Office of Ombudsperson for Families (OBFF). The conference's theme, <em>A Stone of Hope</em>, rallied the practitioners in child protection to connect with one another. A record number of registrants attended the USOA's annual gathering. The Conference's planning committee drew inspiration from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. In his 'I Have a Dream' speech. Atlanta's famous Nobel Prize laureate, preacher and activist said, "This is our hope. This is the faith that I go back to the South with. With this faith, <strong>we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope.</strong>"</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">OBFF's conference participation centered on networking nationally; to grow the OBFF agency's capacity in meeting, addressing and ultimately eliminating child welfare disparities for the state of Minnesota. "This felt like an opportunity. (For example,) I obtained invaluable training on bias. Dr. Bryant Marks, the National Training Institute on Race and Equity's (NTIRE) founder conducted a session titled, "Brake Your Bias: Implicit Bias Awareness" which I think should be held in Minnesota," Zuniga said. [<a href="https://morehouse.edu/marks-bryant-t/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="Dr. Marks - Associate Professor, Psychology">Learn more about NTIRE and Dr. Marks by visiting the Morehouse professor's website</a>. <a href="https://youtu.be/l3FnXD79HrE?si=CtWEi2O95VdevkPH&amp;t=5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="Implicit Bias Keynote by Dr. Bryant Marks to My Brother's Keeper, New York State">View Dr. Mark's presentation to My Brother's Keeper</a>, New York State in 2022].</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The USOA conference committee wrote, "The proliferation of ombudsman offices across the country and beyond is emblematic of the public's search for hope....Hope that systems may be held accountable and improved. Hope that they will be heard. Hope that they can drive change."  Being in Atlanta, which is home to The King Center - the Center for Non-violent and Social Change as well as <a href="http://" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="National Center for Education Statistics - Dept. of Education">Historically Black Colleges and Universities (<strong>HBCUs</strong>)</a> like Morehouse and Spellman Colleges, conference attendees were encouraged to explore the city's attractions that spoke to ombudsperson work.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">"I had the opportunity to visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. I was specifically moved by the <a href="https://www.civilandhumanrights.org/exhibit/lunch-counter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="Lunch counter sit-in exhibit">Lunch Counter Sit-In exhibit</a>. I found it to be life changing and an affirmation of why we must continue the living struggle to fight for civil rights in Minnesota and our nation as a whole," Zuniga, Jr. said. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><img src="/ombudfam/assets/lunch%20counter%20NCCHR_tcm1105-593670.JPG" title="Lunch Counter exhibit at NCCHR" alt="Lunch Counter exhibit at NCCHR" longdesc="https://www.civilandhumanrights.org/exhibit/lunch-counter/" style="width: 750px; height: 397px;" xlink:title="Lunch Counter exhibit at NCCHR" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" /> <br /> <img src="/ombudfam/assets/National%20Center%20Civil%20Human%20Rights%20virtual%20logo_tcm1105-593602.JPG" title="National Ctr Civil and Human Rights" alt="National Ctr Civil and Human Rights" longdesc="https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=BtX33TV5_28NyxKj&amp;v=iOAOpjUuF90&amp;feature=youtu.be" style="width: 750px; height: 243px;" xlink:title="National Ctr Civil and Human Rights" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" /> <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">USOA plenary sessions offered training opportunities that spanned from the technical to the topical: Antidotes to compassion fatigue; Crisis De-Escalation, Mentoring, and Effective Communications. Sessions were led by real-world practitioners from across the country. Each session represented best-practices and successful techniques employed throughout the nation. The yearly gathering recognizes leaders for extraordinary service and in celebration of their retirement from the work. Here are some of this year's USOA retirees and honorees:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><img src="/ombudfam/assets/Patrick%20Dowd%20and%20Robin%20Matsunaga_tcm1105-593722.jpg" title="USOA Patrick Dowd and Robin Matsunaga" alt="USOA Patrick Dowd and Robin Matsunaga" style="width: 750px; height: 689px;" xlink:title="USOA Patrick Dowd and Robin Matsunaga" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" /> <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>RECOGNITION OF SERVICE:</strong> At the end of their terms of service, <strong>Patrick Dowd</strong>, left, USOA Vice President claps and <strong>Robin Matsunaga</strong>, right, President of <a href="https://www.ombudsman.hawaii.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="USOA Ombudsman State of Hawaii">USOA - Ombudsman for the State of Hawaii</a> are acknowledged by conference attendees. Dowd is the Director of the <a href="https://ofco.wa.gov/about-us/office-family-and-childrens-ombuds-staff" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="OFCO serving child, youth and families in Washington State">Office of Family and Children for the State of Washington</a>. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><img src="/ombudfam/assets/MBZuniga%20Jr.%20and%20Gerald%20R.%20Papica_tcm1105-593531.jpg" title="Gerald R. Papica with Ombudsperson Zuniga, Jr." alt="Gerald R. Papica with Ombudsperson Zuniga, Jr." style="width: 334px; height: 250px; margin-right: 10px" xlink:title="Gerald R. Papica with Ombudsperson Zuniga, Jr." xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" /> <img src="/ombudfam/assets/Zuniga%20with%20USOA%20conference%20attendees_tcm1105-593729.png" title="Nosh and Network ATL" alt="Nosh and Network ATL" style="width: 403px; height: 250px;" xlink:title="Nosh and Network ATL" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" /> <br /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Zuniga, Jr., OBFF's Ombudsperson for Asian American Families, above, made it his goal to immerse himself on emergent and critical issues facing ombudsmen across the country and to network. Why? What does it mean to be engaged and inspired by hope for children and families? Zuniga, Jr. shared that it is about the struggle to see problems where they are and what they are. From this, there will be growth for all ombudspersons by acknowledging data-defined disproportionality in child welfare, and taking action to combat it. OBFF's goal is to enact inclusive, comprehensive care for children and families.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><img src="/ombudfam/assets/National%20Center%20Civil%20Human%20Rights%20justice%20artwork_tcm1105-593604.JPG" title="National Ctr Civil Rights Justice artwork" alt="National Ctr Civil Rights Justice artwork" style="width: 521px; height: 108px;" xlink:title="National Ctr Civil Rights Justice artwork" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" /></p>6651792025-08-29T18:33:08ZNews640News671704673155/ombudfam/assets/GroupwithMaxie_tcm1105-579132.png/ombudfam/assets/GroupwithMaxie_tcm1105-579132.png<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-665188" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2023-05-24T15:17:11ZIn recognition of years of service to the community, and of her effective, impactful strides to improve the general welfare of Minnesota’s children and families.May 2023 Joint Board Meeting1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In recognition of years of service to the community, and of her effective, impactful strides to improve the general welfare of Minnesota’s children and families,</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">The Office of Ombudsperson for Families (OBFF) recognizes</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><em><strong>Maxie Rockymore</strong></em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">for providing the State of Minnesota:</p> <ul xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> <li>groundbreaking,</li> <li>inclusive,</li> <li>equality-driven,</li> <li>equity-giving work</li> </ul> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><img src="/ombudfam/assets/Maxie%20with%20award%201_tcm1105-579133.jpg" title="Ombudsperson Ann Hill presents Maxie Rockymore with OBFF award" alt="Ombudsperson Ann Hill presents Maxie Rockymore with OBFF award" style="width: 333px; height: 221px;" xlink:title="Maxie Rockymore 1" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" /></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>At the OBFF May 2023 Joint Meeting of Community Boards, Maxie Rockymore, MSW, MFA was celebrated for dedicating 25 years to the children and families of Minnesota.</strong> Gina Washington, representing the African American Advisory Board and who chaired the meeting, introduced Rockymore: "I remember... years ago, in 1998 when I first met Maxie and I fell in love with her from the onset. I have such great memories of working with her at DHS. She is a cherished mentor."</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rockymore, <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/ssact/title04/0475.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="Social Security Act Sec. 475">whose expertise in foster care is cited nationally</a>, shared highlights of her work that spans almost three decades. <a href="https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/children-and-families/services/foster-care/programs-services/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="MN-DHS - Foster Care programs and services">Read about foster parent services in Minnesota</a>, as well as the <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/OP_Home/ssact/title04/0471.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="State Plan for Foster Care and Adoption Assistance">State Plan for Foster Care and Adoption Assistance</a>.</p> <img src="/ombudfam/assets/Maxie%20with%20award_tcm1105-579134.jpg" title="Maxie Rockymore 2" alt="Maxie Rockymore 2" style="float: left; width: 150px; height: 178px; margin-right: 10px;" xlink:title="Maxie Rockymore 2" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" />  <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">Rockymore reported on behalf of the MN-Department of Human Services to the joint board: "I don't want to start crying... we worked with so many people across the years. I look back and we know people who gave their lives to this cause," she began. "(A) key point I'd like to highlight, you know, we had the African American disparities advisory committee. The African American children out-of-home placement rate was 4.2 and now it is 2.9 (<a href="https://assets.aecf.org/m/resourcedoc/aecf-fosteringyouth-executivesummary-2023.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" title="State and National Foster Care Data - Annie E Casey Foundation">read more from the Annie E. Casey Foundation</a>). <a href="https://minnesota.webex.com/recordingservice/sites/minnesota/recording/e7e7d328dbde103bbb3b00505681855f/playback" title="DHS report starts at 35:39 mark">We worked diligently</a> for 10 years," Rockymore said.</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">"(It's) so important for all of us to partner together, to make sure that the families are getting the best outcomes that they can have and that the children remain safe."</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><img src="/ombudfam/assets/Maxieanddude_tcm1105-579137.jpg" title="Rockymore reminisces with cohort" alt="Rockymore reminisces with cohort" style="font-family: Verdana; width: 266px; height: 160px;" xlink:title="Maxie Rockymore 4" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" /></p>6651882025-08-29T18:27:38ZNews640News671704673155/ombudfam/assets/2022%20Awards%20Meeting_tcm1105-551354.JPG/ombudfam/assets/2022%20Awards%20Meeting_tcm1105-551354.JPG<custom:Link urlOnly="true" type="Component" destination="tcm:1105-665177" templateURI="tcm:0-0-0" origin="tcm:0-0-0" />2022-12-07T15:21:53ZThe Office of Ombudsperson for Families (OBFF) recognized 3 Minnesota trailblazers in child welfare at our year-end meeting.Each award is for excellence in serving Minnesota's children and families1105<p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">In recognition of years of service to the community, and their collective strides to improve the general welfare of Minnesota’s children and families. The Office of Ombudsperson for Families (OBFF) recognizes 3 Minnesota trailblazers in child welfare at our year-end meeting. Each award is for excellence in serving Minnesota's children and families:</p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Senator Patricia Torres-Ray <br /> <img src="/ombudfam/assets/Sen%20Torres%20Ray%20and%20Ann_tcm1105-551359.jpg" title="Sen. Torres and Ann" alt="Sen. Torres and Ann" style="width: 250px; height: 364px; margin-top: 10px;" xlink:title="Sen. Torres and Ann" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" /> <br /></strong></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><strong>Representative Rena Moran</strong> <em>(accepted by daughter, Silver Moran) <br /> <img src="/ombudfam/assets/Silver%20Moran%20and%20Ann_tcm1105-551360.jpg" title="Silver Moran accepts on behalf of mom" alt="Silver Moran accepts on behalf of mom" style="width: 250px; height: 212px; margin-top: 10px;" xlink:title="Silver Moran accepts on behalf of mom" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" /> <br /></em></p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">and <strong>Dr. Elvira Barnes-Caldwell <br /> <img src="/ombudfam/assets/Elvira%20and%20Ann_tcm1105-551358.jpg" title="Dr. Elvira" alt="Dr. Elvira" style="width: 250px; height: 348px; margin-top: 10px;" xlink:title="Dr. Elvira" xmlns:xlink="http://www.w3.org/1999/xlink" /></strong></p>6651772025-08-29T18:26:52Z