FMR Updates

A call for justice, equity and inclusion in our 2020 special sessions

by Trevor Russell

update

June 16, 2020

At FMR, we believe that the Mississippi River belongs to all of us. As long as people of color live in fear of police violence and are made to feel unwelcome or unsafe in public spaces, the river does not belong to them. That must change. And we need to support this change during Minnesota's special session. Learn more and take action >>

Say 'Yes!' to Dakota County parks and natural areas

by Betsy Daub

update

June 12, 2020

If you live in Dakota County or use and value its parks, you now have the opportunity (through July 3) to advocate for protecting and restoring additional parks, natural areas and greenways. Learn about and give the county a thumbs-up for their draft conservation plan. >>

Local storytelling legend Loren Niemi on the power of stories and how the river changed him

by Sara DeKok

article

June 4, 2020

We're thrilled to engage noted local storyteller Loren Niemi in planning and curating Our Storied River: An Evening Celebrating the Mississippi River this fall. In a recent interview, we learned more about his life as a storyteller, how the river has changed him, and how he plans to work with our story-sharers. (Will you be one of them?) >>

Minneapolis park board cuts ties with Minneapolis Police

by Colleen O'Connor Toberman

update

June 3, 2020

In recognition of our commitment to public spaces that are safe and welcoming to all, we applaud the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board's recent decisions to reduce its relationship with the Minneapolis Police Department. Read more, including our letter of support. >>

In support of justice for George Floyd: Ways you can help

by Sophie Downey

article

June 1, 2020

As we listen to Black voices, it's clear that statements of support are only the start of the work we need to do to make sure our public spaces are safe and welcoming to all people. This work is crucial to our vision for the river and its communities. And right now, our communities are overwhelmed with need. Here are some ways you can help. >>

article

May 28, 2020

Justice for George Floyd

article

May 28, 2020

We are deeply saddened and outraged by the brutal killing of George Floyd, an unarmed Black man, at the hands of the Minneapolis Police. We stand in solidarity with those who seek justice for his murder.

As long as people of color live in fear of police violence, environmental justice is not possible. And as long as people of color are made unwelcome or unsafe, we cannot have truly public spaces.

Read more, including ways you can help. >>