Civic Renewal Archives - Minnesota Humanities Center

Where two worlds and waters meet

June 30, 2026 - By Angie Hong

From freshwater springs in the forests of northern Minnesota, water bubbles out of the ground, forms a lake, and then a river. At its start in Lake Itasca, the water is clear and clean.

America at 250

March 5, 2026 - By Kevin Lindsey

While the Declaration of Independence is not law, its impact is monumental as it serves as a vital foundational document that outlines the principles of natural rights – equality and liberty – that underpins the United States government and influenced the creation of the Constitution and Bill of Rights.

2025 Wrap Up: On the Road with Sketches of Minnesota

December 9, 2025 - By Tane Danger

A confession: when we started Sketches of Minnesota, I secretly expected that at once or twice…it wouldn’t work.

2025 Wrap Up: Statewide Tour Stop in Fergus Falls

December 9, 2025 - By Rebecca Peterson

With book-end visits in October, Otter Tail County had the good fortune to participate in MHC’s Minnesota Sketches program, not just once but TWICE!

Continuing the Work

March 5, 2025 - By Kevin Lindsey

In response to questions about how threatened cuts to the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and how a possible federal government shutdown might impact MHC, let me share some information about our grant making process and grant administration work. MHC grantees can rest assured that their grant…

A More Perfect Union

February 3, 2025 - By Kevin Lindsey

President Abraham Lincoln, in commemorating the lives lost during the Civil War, at the Gettysburg Address noted that the United States of America is a “government of the people, by the people, for the people.”

Sketches of Minnesota

January 6, 2025 - By Kevin Lindsey

Partnering with Danger Boat Productions, we conceived the idea of hosting a humanities comedy tour in response to news of people in Minnesota feeling disconnected and unwilling to talk to their neighbors.

Our House: The Capitol Project Podcast

February 26, 2024 - By Alan Berks

When thinking of the Minnesota State Capitol, it may be helpful to recall The Wizard of Oz. From a distance, we see a majestic and imposing facade, a place where it seems power is wielded as though by magic.