Facing Race Idea Challenge Produces Winning Ideas for Reducing Racism

Hundreds of Minnesotans vote for ideas that engage youth

Nearly 50 Minnesotans submitted ideas to reduce racism in their communities in the 2011 Facing Race Idea Challenge. A panel of judges narrowed the entries to five finalists, which were put to a public vote at the Facing Race Idea Challenge website, hosted by InCommons. 

When the online polls closed on June 30, the top two vote-winning ideas had two things in common: both ideas engaged youth in work to reduce racism - and both ideas have a connection to Hamline University. Congratulations to the winning ideas, each slated to receive $2,500 grants for implementation:

• Project s.t.a.r.t Leadership will engage youth in racial justice and equity work, helping them become leaders in creating cultural awareness and respect within Minneapolis public schools. Kate Towle, a Hamline University alumnae, is an active racial justice facilitator who volunteers for the YWCA and consults with the Minneapolis Public Schools.

• Youth Peacekeepers will bring together a group of diverse high school students and provide them with conflict resolution and communication training for use in facilitating conversations about race with younger peer groups. Current Hamline University student Jake Branchaud-Linsk submitted this winning idea.

The Facing Race Idea Challenge generated dozens of inspiring ideas for creating communities where everyone feels safe, valued and respected. View all of the entries and add your comments to the conversation by visiting the Challenge website.