‘Cover Stories’ Archives
Never Homeless Before 1492
By Carz Nelson On November 3, a new art installation was unveiled at the Wall of Forgotten Natives, the location of the 2018 homeless encampment on Franklin Avenue. Twenty-three boards wired to the chain-link fence spell out: “Never Homeless Before 1492”. Each panel includes images and symbols that are relevant to the American Indian community. Artist Courtney Cochran led the design. Many community members contributed to the work, including people who have experienced homelessness themselves. The project is sponsored by the Native American Community Development Institute and the Minnesota Department of Transportation. It will remain in place on Franklin Avenue for two years. 1492: The year it all started Looking west down Franklin An additional panel provides space for community members to leave their thoughts. Various letters from the wall highlighting art and issues.
City Council Committee Votes to Halt Hiawatha Public Works Expansion, Future of Urban Farm Uncertain
By LINDSEY FENNER In a confusing and close vote, on August 18 the Policy and Government Oversight (POGO) Committee partially approved a staff directive authored by CMs Cano, Jenkins, Gordon, and Johnson, that halts the planned expansion of the Hiawatha Public Works Maintenance Facility at the Roof Depot Site at 1860 E 28th Street in East Phillips. However, an abstention by CM Ellison on the part of the directive which would have given the East Phillips Neighborhood Institute (EPNI) exclusive development rights to the property tied the vote 6-6, so that provision did not pass. This means the future of the East Phillips Urban Farm project proposed by EPNI is uncertain. The partially approved staff directive passed by a 7-6 vote, with Council Members Reich, Fletcher, Cunningham, Osman, Goodman, and Bender voting no. The POGO Committee is expected to receive a financial report on the city costs of maintaining the Roof Depot site until development, as well as a “racial [...]
Help for Voters Living with Disabilities
The fifth in a series of articles about the 2021 Municipal Elections brought to you by the League of Women Voters Minneapolis. journalistresources.com The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), landmark legislation that prohibits discrimination against individuals living with disabilities, has put the force of law behind mandates for equal access in all areas of civic life, including access for voting. Voting accessibility is essential to ensure that all people have the right and ability to vote, regardless of their mobility or their physical, communication or other limitations. Minnesota has made strides in improving access to voting for all. In addition to the requirement that polling places be physically accessible, here are a few accommodations that may provide individuals living with disabilities better access to the ballot box: ASSISTANCE: You can bring anyone to assist you while you vote, except your employer or union rep, or you can get assistance from election [...]
