the alley Newspaper | News & Views of Phillips Since 1976

Letter from Journalism of Color Training Center

Written by the alley on 05 November 2024

Dear Phillips Community –

My name is Cirien Saadeh and I am a community journalist and community journalism educator. I am also the founder of the Journalism of Color Training Center (JCTC). At the JCTC, we teach community journalism and we work with community outlets, like the alley, to make community journalism education accessible to folks at the community level.

The insert you’re about to read is a publication culminating after nearly 18 months of planning and conducting community journalism training workshops. We are SO excited for you to read it. This project came together through a partnership between the Phillips West Neighborhood Organization (PWNO), the official neighborhood organization for the Phillips West Neighborhood and community partner Alley Communications, the nonprofit and community-governed publisher of the alley, as well as JCTC.
I want to let you know what to expect.

The “community journalists-in-training” who published with us came from all walks of life – all focused on lifting up and centering the Phillips Community and its residents. Some community members came to us because they read the alley and they learned about the opportunity to receive professional-level community journalism training through workshops and mentorship. Others came to us through organizational relationships that we maintain and develop.… Read the rest “Letter from Journalism of Color Training Center”

Community, Health, Education, and Labor Leaders Unite in Call at City Council to Close HERC Trash Burner Hearing

Written by the alley on 01 November 2024

Newly proposed resolution would call for a shutdown date for the facility and seeks restitution for residents impacted by the incinerator

By ZERO BURN COALITION

Attendees at an October 10th hearing on the permanent closure of Minneapolis’ HERC trash incinerator. PHOTO: Devon Young Cupery

The Minneapolis City Council’s Climate & Infrastructure Committee held a public hearing on October 10 focusing on a resolution to support the permanent closure of the Hennepin Energy Recovery Center (HERC). The resolution marks a significant step in addressing decades of environmental and health concerns raised by local residents, scientists, and environmental advocates.

The resolution calls for a definitive closure date for HERC, restitution for communities impacted by the facility’s 35 years of operation, and frontline community leadership in determining the future of the site. It also urges the City to implement its 2017 Zero Waste Plan, aiming to reduce waste and promote sustainability.

For over three decades, local residents and health experts have been vocal about the harmful effects of waste incineration at HERC, which disproportionately affects low-income and marginalized communities. The closure of HERC is seen by many as a crucial step toward environmental justice and a healthier future for Minneapolis.

“I am honored to represent a Ward who cares so deeply about the health of their children, neighbors, and elderly, and who are showing us how we move beyond our current systems of waste and pollution.… Read the rest “Community, Health, Education, and Labor Leaders Unite in Call at City Council to Close HERC Trash Burner Hearing”

Election Information You Need

Written by the alley on 01 November 2024

By LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS MINNEAPOLIS

VOTE ON TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5th!

Residents of Minnesota for 20 days who are at least 18 years old and have affirmed US citizenship are able to vote now until 8 pm on November 5. Minnesotans who are living in their communities and are not currently incarcerated for a felony conviction are eligible to vote. In addition, 16-and-17-year-olds can pre-register so that they will be automatically registered on their 18th birthday.
For Minnesota to regain our top voter turnout spot, voters must get the trusted election information they need. As a voter, you have the right to time off work and can still vote from the comfort of your home. You can also now enter your ballot directly into the tabulating machine beginning 18 days before election day.

DID YOU KNOW? The Office of the Secretary of State is introducing a free SMS text service to text all your questions to. You will not be added to any lists or signed up for any reminders. This number is part of the Office’s Call Center, with real people on the line who will answer any questions you have.
Text: 651-217-3862. Make sure you have all the info you need right at your fingertips.

… Read the rest