Duluth - Sketches of Minnesota
2024-07-10 17:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Zeitgeist Center for Arts, 222 East Superior Street, Duluth, MN, 55802, United States
Join the Minnesota Humanities Center, Danger Boat Productions, and local host partners for the inaugural Sketches of Minnesota civic improv comedy tour! These free events will use laughter and comedy to celebrate Minnesota communities, promote dialogue, bridge divides, and help find ways to work constructively across differences in today’s political environment.
Beginning with a catered meal, these gatherings will invite audience members to share what makes their town great, what they think people get wrong about it, what local divisions concern them, and what future they imagine. An improv comedy troupe will listen in on the conversations, taking everything they heard from residents and bringing it to life on stage through entirely unscripted improv comedy theater.
This event is one of the first seven tour stops. A culminating performance will take place later in 2024, sharing stories from around the state. Visit host partner and/or venue site for details and registration specific to this event.
The work of the Minnesota Humanities Center is to create a stronger Minnesota by increasing our understanding of the beauty, wisdom and stories of its people. Through partnerships, we facilitate the spaces, like Sketches of Minnesota, that seek to build connections and deepen understanding of ourselves and our communities in pursuit of a more just society.
Host Partner: Zeitgeist Center for Arts
Registration
This event is free but registration is required. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. If you would like to attend the show only, please select the 7:30pm time slot. If you would like to attend a free pre-show dinner at Zeitgeist Restaurant + Bar, please select your desired time slot from 5:00pm-6:15pm. Approximate show runtime is 60-75 min, including Q&A.
Registration Questions: jessica@zeitgeistarts.com
Register Now

Glencoe - Sketches of Minnesota
2024-07-16 17:30 - 20:00 | Glencoe City Center, 1107 11th Street East, Glencoe, 55336, United States
Join the Minnesota Humanities Center, Danger Boat Productions, and local host partners for the inaugural Sketches of Minnesota civic improv comedy tour! These free events will use laughter and comedy to celebrate Minnesota communities, promote dialogue, bridge divides, and help find ways to work constructively across differences in today’s political environment.
Beginning with a catered meal, these gatherings will invite audience members to share what makes their town great, what they think people get wrong about it, what local divisions concern them, and what future they imagine. An improv comedy troupe will listen in on the conversations, taking everything they heard from residents and bringing it to life on stage through entirely unscripted improv comedy theater.
This event is one of the first seven tour stops. A culminating performance will take place later in 2024, sharing stories from around the state. Visit host partner and/or venue site for details and registration specific to this event.
The work of the Minnesota Humanities Center is to create a stronger Minnesota by increasing our understanding of the beauty, wisdom and stories of its people. Through partnerships, we facilitate the spaces, like Sketches of Minnesota, that seek to build connections and deepen understanding of ourselves and our communities in pursuit of a more just society.
Host Partner: McLeod for Tomorrow
Registration
This event is free but registration is required.
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org
Register Now

Onamia - American Indian Education in Minnesota 101
2024-07-23 08:00 - 2024-07-24 16:00 | Grand Casino Mille Lacs, 777 Grand Avenue, Onamia, MN, 56359, United States
In April 2019 Governor Tim Walz and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan performed a ceremonial signing of Executive Order 19-24 (which came into law in 2023) with several Tribal leaders and officials. Photo by Melanie Franks
The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) is pleased to announce a significant training opportunity designed in collaboration with Tribal Nations and the urban American Indian community in Minnesota. This training program is specifically tailored for school district administrators, staff, school board members, and educators to enhance their understanding and engagement with Native learners and families.
The primary goal of this training is to equip K-12 educators, staff, and administrators with the knowledge and tools necessary to serve American Indian students and foster positive relationships effectively. Participants will gain insights that they can apply directly in their teaching practices and community interactions.
This training has been developed in partnership with MDE, University of Minnesota Duluth – Tribal Sovereignty Institute, the Minnesota Department of Transportation – Tribal State Relations Training, and the Minnesota Humanities Center.
We look forward to welcoming you to this important initiative aimed at strengthening our collective commitment to Native education and community engagement.
Visit the MDE Tribal Relations Training web page to learn more and to access the two free pre-requisite online courses.
Lodging
Lodging is recommended at Grand Casino Mille Lacs (777 Grand Avenue, Onamia, MN 56359 – same location of the two-day training). Rooms are $99.00 – 109.00 per night plus taxes and fees until July 8, 2024. Call Grand Casino Mille Lacs at 800-626-5825 and mention code TDE722M for the training block (or enter the code when you register online).
District Reimbursement
District Reimbursement Application – MDE Tribal Relations Training – District Reimbursement Application (office.com)
This form must be completed if a district would like to receive the reimbursement of $500 per participant. The payments will be processed by MDE after the training.
Registration
This event is free but registration is required. Please complete the registration form for each individual attending.
K-12 educators, staff, and administrators will receive 13.5 clock hours upon completion of the training.
Registration Questions: Contact Melanie Franks — MDE Tribal Liaison at melanie.franks@state.mn.us.
REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT HAS CLOSED

Waite Park - Sketches of Minnesota
2024-07-25 17:30 - 20:00 | GREAT Theatre, 710 Sundial Drive, Waite Park, MN, 56387, United States
Join the Minnesota Humanities Center, Danger Boat Productions, and local host partners for the inaugural Sketches of Minnesota civic improv comedy tour! These free events will use laughter and comedy to celebrate Minnesota communities, promote dialogue, bridge divides, and help find ways to work constructively across differences in today’s political environment.
Beginning with a catered meal, these gatherings will invite audience members to share what makes their town great, what they think people get wrong about it, what local divisions concern them, and what future they imagine. An improv comedy troupe will listen in on the conversations, taking everything they heard from residents and bringing it to life on stage through entirely unscripted improv comedy theater.
This event is one of the first seven tour stops. A culminating performance will take place later in 2024, sharing stories from around the state. Visit host partner and/or venue site for details and registration specific to this event.
The work of the Minnesota Humanities Center is to create a stronger Minnesota by increasing our understanding of the beauty, wisdom and stories of its people. Through partnerships, we facilitate the spaces, like Sketches of Minnesota, that seek to build connections and deepen understanding of ourselves and our communities in pursuit of a more just society.
Host Partner: Paramount Center for the Arts and GREAT Theatre
Registration
This event is free but registration is required.
Register Now

Emily - Sketches of Minnesota
2024-07-26 17:30 - 20:00 | Emily City Hall, 44483 State Hwy 6, Emily, 56447, United States
Join the Minnesota Humanities Center, Danger Boat Productions, and local host partners for the inaugural Sketches of Minnesota civic improv comedy tour! These free events will use laughter and comedy to celebrate Minnesota communities, promote dialogue, bridge divides, and help find ways to work constructively across differences in today’s political environment.
Beginning with a catered meal, these gatherings will invite audience members to share what makes their town great, what they think people get wrong about it, what local divisions concern them, and what future they imagine. An improv comedy troupe will listen in on the conversations, taking everything they heard from residents and bringing it to life on stage through entirely unscripted improv comedy theater.
This event is one of the first seven tour stops. A culminating performance will take place later in 2024, sharing stories from around the state. Visit host partner and/or venue site for details and registration specific to this event.
The work of the Minnesota Humanities Center is to create a stronger Minnesota by increasing our understanding of the beauty, wisdom and stories of its people. Through partnerships, we facilitate the spaces, like Sketches of Minnesota, that seek to build connections and deepen understanding of ourselves and our communities in pursuit of a more just society.
Host Partner: GoNorth MN
Registration
This event is free but registration is required.
Register Now

Morris - Sketches of Minnesota
2024-08-08 17:30 - 20:00 | University of Minnesota Morris, 600 East 4th Street, Morris, MN, 56267, United States
Join the Minnesota Humanities Center, Danger Boat Productions, and local host partners for the inaugural Sketches of Minnesota civic improv comedy tour! These free events will use laughter and comedy to celebrate Minnesota communities, promote dialogue, bridge divides, and help find ways to work constructively across differences in today’s political environment.
Beginning with a catered meal, these gatherings will invite audience members to share what makes their town great, what they think people get wrong about it, what local divisions concern them, and what future they imagine. An improv comedy troupe will listen in on the conversations, taking everything they heard from residents and bringing it to life on stage through entirely unscripted improv comedy theater.
This event is one of the first seven tour stops. A culminating performance will take place later in 2024, sharing stories from around the state. Visit host partner and/or venue site for details and registration specific to this event.
The work of the Minnesota Humanities Center is to create a stronger Minnesota by increasing our understanding of the beauty, wisdom and stories of its people. Through partnerships, we facilitate the spaces, like Sketches of Minnesota, that seek to build connections and deepen understanding of ourselves and our communities in pursuit of a more just society.
Host Partner: West Central Initiative Foundation and University of Minnesota Morris
Registration
This event is free but registration is required.
Register Now

Little Falls - Sketches of Minnesota
2024-08-13 17:30 - 20:00 | Great River Arts, 122 1st Street SE, Little Falls, MN, 56345, United States
Join the Minnesota Humanities Center, Danger Boat Productions, and local host partners for the inaugural Sketches of Minnesota civic improv comedy tour! These free events will use laughter and comedy to celebrate Minnesota communities, promote dialogue, bridge divides, and help find ways to work constructively across differences in today’s political environment.
Beginning with a catered meal, these gatherings will invite audience members to share what makes their town great, what they think people get wrong about it, what local divisions concern them, and what future they imagine. An improv comedy troupe will listen in on the conversations, taking everything they heard from residents and bringing it to life on stage through entirely unscripted improv comedy theater.
This event is one of the first seven tour stops. A culminating performance will take place later in 2024, sharing stories from around the state. Visit host partner and/or venue site for details and registration specific to this event.
The work of the Minnesota Humanities Center is to create a stronger Minnesota by increasing our understanding of the beauty, wisdom and stories of its people. Through partnerships, we facilitate the spaces, like Sketches of Minnesota, that seek to build connections and deepen understanding of ourselves and our communities in pursuit of a more just society.
Host Partner: Great River Arts
Registration
Register Now

Cass Lake - We Are Water MN
2024-08-15 - 2024-10-07 | Leech Lake Tribal College, 6945 Little Wolf Rd NW, Cass Lake, MN, 56633, United States
The We Are Water MN traveling exhibit examines water issues statewide and in local communities through personal stories, histories, and scientific information. It strengthens Minnesotans’ relationships with water, exposes visitors to new perspectives, and increases participation in water stewardship activities.
Host Partner: Leech Lake Tribal College
Want to know more about We Are Water MN?
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Austin - Sketches of Minnesota
2024-09-16 17:30 - 20:00 | Hormel Historic Home, 208 4th Ave NW, Austin, MN, 55912, United States
Join the Minnesota Humanities Center, Danger Boat Productions, and local host partners for the inaugural Sketches of Minnesota civic improv comedy tour! These free events will use laughter and comedy to celebrate Minnesota communities, promote dialogue, bridge divides, and help find ways to work constructively across differences in today’s political environment.
Beginning with a catered meal, these gatherings will invite audience members to share what makes their town great, what they think people get wrong about it, what local divisions concern them, and what future they imagine. An improv comedy troupe will listen in on the conversations, taking everything they heard from residents and bringing it to life on stage through entirely unscripted improv comedy theater.
Host Partner: Discover Austin
The work of the Minnesota Humanities Center is to create a stronger Minnesota by increasing our understanding of the beauty, wisdom and stories of its people. Through partnerships, we facilitate the spaces, like Sketches of Minnesota, that seek to build connections and deepen understanding of ourselves and our communities in pursuit of a more just society.
Registration
This event is free but registration is required.
Register Now

Mankato - Minnesota Writers Series: It Took Courage
2024-09-21 13:00 - 15:00 | Blue Earth County Historical Society, 424 Warren Street, Mankato, MN, 56001, United States
Join us at the Blue Earth County Historical Society in Mankato as we welcome acclaimed scholar Dr. Christopher P. Lehman, author of the recently published “It Took Courage: Eliza Winston’s Quest for Freedom” (Minnesota Historical Society Press, 2024). Dr. Lehman will discuss the moving and impactful life of Eliza Winston with the event moderator, Stacy Wells.
Dr. Lehman will be available for book signing and conversation after the event. Be sure to show up early for the event – the first 25 attendees will receive a complimentary copy of “It Took Courage” or “Slavery’s Reach: Southern Slaveholders in the North Star State,” also by Dr. Lehman and the winner of the 2020 Minnesota Book Award for Minnesota Nonfiction.
About the book:
“It Took Courage” examines the life of Eliza Winston, an enslaved woman from Mississippi who, in 1860, appealed for her freedom before a judge in Minnesota and won. Previous research and considerations of Winston have examined her life and the impact of her case from other perspectives, including the abolitionists who helped Winston petition for her freedom and then claimed more credit than they were due, as well as white Minnesotans who reacted violently after learning the decision of the case. While these accounts have centered on the effect of Winston’s freedom on Minnesota politics, “It Took Courage” uncovers the life of Eliza Winston, her resilience, and her powerful self-advocacy. Dr. Lehman’s book offers us a new account of Eliza Winston, from the tragedies of her youth to her enslavement by the family of President Andrew Jackson, to her journey from the American South to Minnesota and the aftermath of the trial.
About the author:
Christopher P. Lehman is a professor of ethnic studies at St. Cloud State University, where he has been a faculty member since 2002. An historian, Dr. Lehman’s research focuses on American popular culture, representation of African Americans throughout U.S. history, and the struggle of African American equality. He is the author of seven historical nonfiction books and his most recent works, “It Took Courage” and “Slavery’s Reach” investigate the profound impact that slavery had in Minnesota and across the United States.
About the moderator:
Stacy Wells is a dedicated educator and equity thought leader with experience as a leader in the public and private sectors, K-12 teacher and administrator, higher education faculty member, and consultant. She is the co-founder of Love & Struggle, LLC, which consults with organizations to embed equity and create racially just environments, and co-author of “WRITE on RACE to Be RIGHT on RACE Resource Journaling Guide.” Stacy is the Chief Health Equity Director-Direct Care & Treatment at the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
Registration
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org
Register Now

International Falls - Sketches of Minnesota
2024-10-23 17:30 - 20:00 | Minnesota North College – Rainy River Campus, 1501 Highway 71, International Falls, MN, 56649, United States
Join the Minnesota Humanities Center, Danger Boat Productions, and local host partners for the inaugural Sketches of Minnesota civic improv comedy tour! These free events will use laughter and comedy to celebrate Minnesota communities, promote dialogue, bridge divides, and help find ways to work constructively across differences in today’s political environment.
Beginning with a catered meal, these gatherings will invite audience members to share what makes their town great, what they think people get wrong about it, what local divisions concern them, and what future they imagine. An improv comedy troupe will listen in on the conversations, taking everything they heard from residents and bringing it to life on stage through entirely unscripted improv comedy theater.
The work of the Minnesota Humanities Center is to create a stronger Minnesota by increasing our understanding of the beauty, wisdom and stories of its people. Through partnerships, we facilitate the spaces, like Sketches of Minnesota, that seek to build connections and deepen understanding of ourselves and our communities in pursuit of a more just society.
If you have questions about accessibility or childcare for this event, please email Kristi Huffaker at kristi.huffaker@minnesotanorth.edu.
Registration
This event is free but registration is required.
Register Now

Winona - Examining Military Service From the Margins
2024-11-02 13:00 - 15:00 | Winona County Historical Society, 160 Johnson Street, Winona, MN, 55987, United States
Session 1: Introduction/What motivates people to serve?
Veterans, active service members, and civilians are invited to contribute to the “Examining Military Service From the Margins” discussion series. Facilitated by pairs of Discussion Leaders, each session will use guiding questions, and a set of core-shared resources like oral histories and films, to better understand how race, class, gender, sexuality, religion, and other factors have caused the military service of some individuals to be devalued or limited in some capacity. All Discussion Leaders are either active service members or Veterans.
Consideration of central topics and themes, and discussion of key moments from military history, such as self-emancipation among the U.S. Colored Troops members in the Civil War, or the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell more recently, will spark greater conversations about service, democracy, citizenship, equality and more. Additional resources will be offered for those with extra time wanting to explore even further.
Session One of “Examining Military Service From the Margins” will introduce participants to core concepts of the discussion series and consider the guiding questions, “What do we mean by ‘Examining Military Service From the Margins?’” and “What motivates people to serve?”
What you can expect from this series:

Discussion Leaders, Veterans, active service members, and civilians will share information on military service, as well as talk about their personal experiences and perspectives.
Each session will have a resource list of articles, books, and organizations to help you gain a deeper understanding of the issues at hand.
Engage in small and large group discussions.

Registration
Registration is required. There is no cost to attend; sign up for one or two sessions.
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org
Register Now

Duluth - Reckoning With Slavery: MN African American History Film Screening & “Where Do We Go From Here?” Community Talk
2024-11-09 13:00 - 15:00 | Marcus Duluth Cinema, 300 Harbor Dr, Duluth, MN, 55802, United States
Award-Winning MN African American History Film Announces Fall 2024 Tour
“Best Short Documentary” (Santa Barbara International Movie Awards) and “Best Producer” (Hollywood Discovery Awards) film, Juneteenth Reckoning with Slavery: MN African American History, announces a 5-city tour happening this Fall.
About the Film
This documentary challenges our understanding of slavery, its impact on Minnesota, and how we reconcile our past by taking viewers on a present-day journey to Ghana, to the quarters of Harriet and Dred Scott at Fort Snelling, and into conversations with current and future scholars about where we go from here.
Co-produced by: OMG Studios and Minnesota Humanities Center Featuring: King Odeneho Kwafo Akoto, III & Queen Mother Nana Afrakoma, II (Akwamu Traditional Area, Ghana, AF); Melvin Carter, III (Mayor, St. Paul); Kevin Lindsey (CEO, Minnesota Humanities Center); Dr. Christopher Lehman (Ethnic Studies Chair, Ethnic, Gender, and Women’s Studies, St. Cloud State University); T. Mychael Rambo; Thomasina Petrus; and Voices from Black Youth Healing Arts Center
About OMG Studios
OMG Studios is a multidisciplinary media and production studio located in the Raymond-University district of Saint Paul. Our mission is to build cultural sustainability and community, where music and art are essential to human survival and development. We are driven by love for humanity and a desire to empower, nurture, and improve the health and wellness of youth and families in under-invested communities.
About Minnesota Humanities Center
The Minnesota Humanities Center (MHC) collaborates with individuals, organizations, and communities to bring transformational humanities programming into the lives of Minnesotans throughout the state.
Registration
Admission is free. This screening features a post-screening discussion with appearances by those featured in the film.
Register Now

Winona - Examining Military Service From the Margins
2024-11-10 13:00 - 15:00 | Winona County Historical Society, 160 Johnson Street, Winona, MN, 55987, United States
Session 2: How has the military service of certain populations been hidden devalued, limited, or discriminated against?
Veterans, active service members, and civilians are invited to contribute to the “Examining Military Service From the Margins” discussion series. Facilitated by pairs of Discussion Leaders, each session will use guiding questions, and a set of core-shared resources like oral histories and films, to better understand how race, class, gender, sexuality, religion, and other factors have caused the military service of some individuals to be devalued or limited in some capacity. All Discussion Leaders are either active service members or Veterans.
Consideration of central topics and themes, and discussion of key moments from military history, such as self-emancipation among the U.S. Colored Troops members in the Civil War, or the repeal of Don’t Ask Don’t Tell more recently, will spark greater conversations about service, democracy, citizenship, equality and more. Additional resources will be offered for those with extra time wanting to explore even further.
Session One of “Examining Military Service From the Margins” will introduce participants to core concepts of the discussion series and consider the guiding questions, “What do we mean by ‘Examining Military Service From the Margins?’” and “What motivates people to serve?”
What you can expect from this series:

Discussion Leaders, Veterans, active service members, and civilians will share information on military service, as well as talk about their personal experiences and perspectives.
Each session will have a resource list of articles, books, and organizations to help you gain a deeper understanding of the issues at hand.
Engage in small and large group discussions.

Registration
Registration is required. There is no cost to attend; sign up for one or two sessions.
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org
Register Now

Marshall - National History Day: Honoring Histories with Care
2024-12-04 10:00 - 15:00 | Southwest West Central Service Cooperative, 1420 East College Drive, Marshall, MN, 56258, United States
Curious about National History Day and how to present historical content in ways that honor and respect diverse communities? Join the Minnesota Humanities Center, in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society, for a workshop designed for 6-12th grade educators. This session will spotlight Minnesota’s Indigenous communities, featuring an update from the Minnesota Department of Education on the recently passed Indigenous Education for All legislation, a presentation from the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition on the history and legacy of residential boarding schools, an introduction to National History Day by the Minnesota Historical Society, and a curated overview of high-quality educator resources. Educators will gain practical strategies and resources to guide students in creating projects with honor, respect, and cultural sensitivity.
Educators will receive a $75 stipend and 4.5 clock hours following their participation in the workshop.
Registration
Registration Questions: Dawn Christensen, dawn.christensen@swsc.org
Register Now

Bemidji - Winter Rural Indian Education Gathering
2025-02-12 10:00 - 14:00 | Beltrami Electric Cooperative Inc., 4111 Technology Dr NW, Bemidji, MN, 56601, United States
Join us for the American Indian Education Networking Winter Gathering hosted by Bemidji Area Schools. District leadership teams, Site leadership teams, School leadership teams, and leaders regarding American Indian and Indigenous Education are encouraged to attend. Lunch will be served onsite. Please register by Wednesday, January 29, 2025, so we can plan accordingly for space and meals.
If you have questions, please contact Sonia Wadena at sonia_wadena@isd31.net.
About the American Indian Education Networking Group
Purpose: Bringing American Indian and Indigenous Education school leaders together to provide opportunities for collaboration and support.
The American Indian Education Networking group is made up of rural statewide and regional American Indian Directors, School Leaders and Educators that come together on a monthly basis to share ideas and discuss challenges while celebrating successes. We create a space for networking and access to practitioners in the field who can help navigate district roles and responsibilities with Tribal partnerships governing American Indian Education programs.
We are also seeking your feedback on the types of professional development and community of practice opportunities you’d like to see from the AIE Networking Group in the future. Please fill out our survey to inform our future programming.
CEUs will be provided.
Registration
Registration is now closed and event is full.
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org

St. Cloud - Minnesota Civics Summit: Civics Organizations and Civics Education Professionals
2025-02-22 09:00 - 11:00 | Atwood Memorial Center, St. Cloud University, 720 4th Ave. South, St. Cloud, MN, 56301, United States
Come join us to showcase your civics program or offering, with a goal to provide a comprehensive directory of civics resources for teachers to engage 11th -12th grade students in their learning. Can’t attend? Email information about your civics offering for our statewide directory of civics resources to civics@lwvmn.org.

11:30am – Lunch & Networking
9:00am – Coffee, Bagels, and Networking
9:30am – Welcome – MN Representative Dean Urdahl (Ret) and Senator Steve Cwodsinski Introduction to MN Civics Summit Civics and Program Sharing by All
11:00am – Wrap-Up and break before lunch

Register for this morning session to gather and help get our directory of civics resources started!
Sponsored by: MINNESOTA CIVICS SUMMIT – A new, collaborative effort to jumpstart the new civics standards for 11th and 12th graders in Minnesota, to support teachers in their engagement of students in civics and voting. Organizing partners include the Minnesota Humanities Center, MN Department of Education, League of Women Voters of MN, YMCA Center for Youth Voice, Federal Bar Association, MN Council on the Social Studies, TeachingCivics.org, and other interested teachers, community members and civics organizations. More information at lwvmn.org/civics.
Registration
This event is free, however registration is required. Please register by Friday, February 14, 2025.
Register Now

St. Cloud - Minnesota Civics Summit: Pre-Conference Professional Development
2025-02-22 11:30 - 15:00 | Atwood Memorial Center, St. Cloud University, 720 4th Ave. South, St. Cloud, MN, 56301, United States
What does it look like to build a classroom where students have productive discussions on challenging topics? A key evidence-based practice in civics education is the discussion of current events and controversial issues, but in today’s polarized political climate, many students are experiencing fewer opportunities to engage in these kinds of essential discussions in their classrooms. Spend the first half of the session exploring a method for building student capacity for civic discussion in ways that allow them to cultivate empathy and develop their own voice. Then, share your thoughts and needs about the resources and support you need to teach the new Academic Standards in Social Studies, and meet the new legislative requirement that students take a course for credit in citizenship and government in 11th or 12th grade.

11:30am – Lunch & Networking
12:00pm – Welcome & Introduction to MN Civics Summit
12:15pm – Professional Development Workshopon Respectful Conversations in Schools™ A highly interactive workshop where educators will learn about and practice a strategy for having challenging, respectful conversations in class about important, sometimes divisive, issues. Led by Amy Anderson, YMCA Center for Youth Voice.
1:45pm – Short Break
2:00pm – Listening & Sharing Session to Support Teachers in Implementing Anchor Standards Small and large group discussions on current tools being used, existing gaps, needed supports, and new efforts to help teachers. Led by Brittany Rawson-Haeg, MN Department of Education.
2:45pm – Large group report out, wrap-up, summary and adjourn by 3:00pm

Sponsored by: MINNESOTA CIVICS SUMMIT – A new, collaborative effort to jumpstart the new civics standards for 11th and 12th graders in Minnesota, to support teachers in their engagement of students in civics and voting. Organizing partners include the Minnesota Humanities Center, MN Department of Education, League of Women Voters of MN, YMCA Center for Youth Voice, Federal Bar Association, MN Council on the Social Studies, TeachingCivics.org, and other interested teachers, community members and civics organizations. More information at lwvmn.org/civics.
CEUs will be provided.
Registration
This event is free, however registration is required. Please register by Friday, February 14, 2025.
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org
Register Now

Rochester - Headscarf Story Circle Gathering
2025-03-08 11:00 - 14:00 | Griot Arts, 115 N Broadway Ave, Rochester, MN, 55906, United States
The Minnesota Humanities Center often hosts Headscarf Story Circles – a series of offerings that recognize the strength and resiliency of women. Our community of Rochester is pleased to announce that on Saturday March 8, 2025, we will gather through shared connections of the headscarf and its complexity. Guests are encouraged to wear a headscarf or head dress that is symbolic of anything from a fashion statement, cultural identity, health related, or memories, and beliefs.
The community event host is Tawonda Burks, Founder and Executive Director of ELOCINA.
Learn More About Headscarf Story Circles
Learn more about Headscarf Story Circles program in this video produced by the Minnesota Humanities Center.

Registration
Registration for this event is closed. To be added to the waitlist, please contact Jessica Rust at jessica@mnhum.org.

Ortonville - We Are Water MN
2025-03-15 - 2025-04-21 | Ortonville High School, 200 Trojan Dr, Ortonville, MN, 56278, United States
The We Are Water MN traveling exhibit examines water issues statewide and in local communities through personal stories, histories, and scientific information. It strengthens Minnesotans’ relationships with water, exposes visitors to new perspectives, and increases participation in water stewardship activities.
Host Partner: Big Stone Arts Council
Want to know more about We Are Water MN?
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Ortonville - Spring Expo and Water Bar
2025-03-15 10:00 - 17:00 | Ortonville High School, 200 Trojan Dr, Ortonville, MN, 56278, United States
Visit the nationally acclaimed We Are Water MN traveling exhibit in the Ortonville High School Commons! Then head downstairs to the Spring Expo (formerly Sports and Leisure Show), where you can chat with local exhibit hosts, get your well water tested for nitrates, and refresh yourself at the Water Bar (where “water is all we have”).
Host Partner: Big Stone Arts Council
Want to know more about We Are Water MN?
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Erskine - National History Day Educator Workshop
2025-03-17 10:00 - 15:00 | Garden Valley Technologies, 206 Vance Ave. S., Erskine, 56535, United States
Curious about National History Day and how to present historical content in ways that honor and respect diverse communities? Join the Minnesota Humanities Center, in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society, for a workshop designed for 6-12th grade educators. Hosted by the Northwest Service Cooperative, this session will spotlight Minnesota’s Indigenous communities, featuring an update from the Minnesota Department of Education on the recently passed Indigenous Education for All legislation, a presentation from the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition on the history and legacy of residential boarding schools, an introduction to National History Day by the Minnesota Historical Society, and a curated overview of high-quality educator resources. Educators will gain practical strategies and resources to guide students in creating projects with honor, respect, and cultural sensitivity.
Educators will receive 4.5 clock hours and a $75 stipend following their participation in the workshop.
Registration
This event is free but registration is required.
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org
Register Now

Rochester - Resistance, Voice, and Verse: A Latino Poetry Reading
2025-04-10 18:00 - 19:00 | Rochester Public Library, 101 2nd St SE, Rochester, 55904, United States
Join us for a special Poetry Month celebration of Latino poetry at the Rochester Public Library! This engaging event will feature readings of powerful poems, and opportunities for discussion and reflection. Students from Rochester Public Schools will read poems from the recently released anthology, “Latino Poetry: The Library of America Anthology” as well as their original work, and the event will be emceed by City of Rochester Poet Laureate, Jean Prokott.
Attendees will have a chance to win a copy of “Latino Poetry: Library of America Anthology” – come celebrate the rich tradition of Latino poetry, connect with fellow poetry lovers, and share in the beauty of language and storytelling. Free to attend, light refreshments provided. All are welcome!
Latino Poetry: Places We Call Home is a major public humanities initiative, planned for 2024–25, that celebrates and explores the multifaceted legacy of Latino poetry. It is directed by Library of America and funded with generous support from the National Endowment for the Humanities and Emerson Collective.
Latino Poetry: Places We Call Home es una iniciativa de gran alcance en el campo de las humanidades públicas que celebra el legado multifacético de la poesía latina. Esta iniciativa de realiza bajo el auspicio de Library of America con el generoso financiamiento del Fondo Nacional para las Humanidades y Emerson Collective.

Ely - We Are Water MN
2025-04-24 - 2025-06-16 | Ely Area Community Hub, 760 Miners Drive E, Ely, MN, 55731, United States
The We Are Water MN traveling exhibit examines water issues statewide and in local communities through personal stories, histories, and scientific information. It strengthens Minnesotans’ relationships with water, exposes visitors to new perspectives, and increases participation in water stewardship activities.
Host Partner: Ely Folk School
Want to know more about We Are Water MN?
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
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Ely - We Are Water MN Opening Celebration
2025-04-24 17:30 - 20:00 | Ely Area Community Hub, 760 Miners Drive E, Ely, MN, 55731, United States
Celebrate the opening night of the We Are Water MN exhibit at the Ely Area Community Hub by joining the Ely Folk School and Reflections Dance Company for this interactive performance! The exhibit will be open for guests to peruse and enjoy and will feature a “Water Bar” for folks to sample different drinking water from our area. After a brief introduction to the exhibit, Reflections Dance Company will perform several dances that will be featured in their August summer showcase; Water 2.0. Dancers will then lead interested participants in a brief movement exercise in understanding how dancers emulate and understand the movement of water in their performances.
Host Partner: Ely Folk School
Want to know more about We Are Water MN?
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Marshall - The Power of Poetry: A Social Studies Bundling Workshop
2025-05-09 10:00 - 14:00 | Southwest West Central Service Cooperative, 1420 East College Drive, Marshall, MN, 56258, United States
Are you interested in teaching poetry to your students? Would you like to learn more about aligning poetry to academic standards and benchmarks? If so, this workshop is for you! The first part of this workshop will include an overview of two poetry programs, Poetry Sparks!, intended for K-8th grades, developed by the Minnesota Poet Laureate, Gwen Nell Westerman, and the Latino Poetry Anthology, intended for 6-12th grades, published by the Library of America. The overview will also include viewing some of the primary sources associated with each program.
In the second half of the workshop, Brittany Rawson-Haeg, Social Studies Specialist with MDE, will walk participants through interdisciplinary bundling, what bundling is, and how both the poetry writing process and individual poems can be used to create a bundle for use with students in the classroom. Standards across Social Studies will be addressed.
This workshop is best suited for elementary generalists, social studies classroom teachers, or anyone working in curriculum instruction supporting social studies. Lunch will be provided, and all participants will receive a complimentary copy of “Songs, Blood Deep” by Minnesota Poet Laureate Gwen Nell Westerman, or the Latino Poetry Anthology.
Pending funding, educators who participate in this workshop will have first access to the Poetry Pathways Programs for the 2025-2026 academic year. Poetry Pathways is a mini-grant opportunity that brings poets and teaching artists directly into classrooms to work with students to foster creativity and writing and exposes them to the power of poetry, using their voices for expression.
About Poetry Pathways
Poetry Pathways is a collaboration between the Minnesota Humanities Center, and The Friends of the Saint Paul Public Library as the Minnesota Center for the Book. Vital to Minnesota communities, poetry is a powerful medium for cultural expression, community building, and drawing attention to important stories and issues, while also providing a space for healing and reflection. It plays a crucial role in education and youth engagement, enriching the social fabric of the state.
Registration
This event is free but registration is required. Lunch will be provided, and all participants will receive a complimentary copy of “Songs, Blood Deep” by Minnesota Poet Laureate Gwen Nell Westerman, or the Latino Poetry Anthology. K-12 Educators will receive 4 clock hours.
Registration Questions: Dawn.Christensen@swwc.org
REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT HAS CLOSED

St. Cloud - Headscarf Story Circle Gathering
2025-05-16 16:00 - 19:00 | St. Cloud Multicultural Mall, 3123 Roosevelt Rd., St. Cloud, MN, 56301, United States
The Minnesota Humanities Center Headscarf Story Circles is a series of offerings that recognize the strength and resiliency of women. Our St. Cloud community will gather through shared connections of the headscarf and engage in conversations around health and wellness. Guests are encouraged to wear a headscarf or head dress that is symbolic of anything from a fashion statement, cultural identity, health related, or memories, and beliefs. This event is hosted by Hodan Omar, Executive Director of Hooyo Hour.
Learn More About Headscarf Story Circles
Learn more about Headscarf Story Circles program in this video produced by the Minnesota Humanities Center.

Registration
This event is free but registration is required.
Register Now

Staples - K-8 Social Studies Standards Workshop
2025-07-29 09:00 - 15:00 | Sourcewell, 202 12th Street NE, Staples, MN, 56479, United States
We invite K-8 social studies educators to a workshop that will provide an overview of the new 2021 Minnesota social studies standards. This workshop includes time for teachers to work together to bundle benchmarks into cohesive, interdisciplinary instructional units. Participants will also have work time to start aligning these units with existing resources and primary sources.
A collaboration between Sourcewell and the Minnesota Humanities Center, this workshop will be led by Sourcewell education consultant Jen McLachlan and will feature Brittany Rawson Haeg, Social Studies Content Lead for the Minnesota Department of Education.
Workshop Leader
Jen McLachlan serves as an education consultant at Sourcewell, lending her expertise to programs such as ElevatePD, New Teacher Academy, and the Social Studies Network. With a background as a middle-level educator in both math and social studies, as well as serving on a school board, she is deeply passionate about empowering teachers to become innovators and catalysts for change.
Workshop Presenter
Brittany Rawson Haeg is the Social Studies Content Specialist at the Minnesota Department of Education. She began her teaching career as a high school social studies teacher in Brooklyn, New York. She taught middle and high school social studies in the Twin Cities. Prior to teaching, she was a staff assistant in the New York City Department of Education Office of Intergovernmental Affairs. She believes in the power of social studies education to help students develop greater empathy and understanding.
For more information and to register, visit the Sourcewell event listing.

Duluth - Minnesota Writers Off the Page: Michelle Filkins, Margret Aldrich, Julie Gard, Jennifer Hopkins & Leslie Miller
2025-08-07 18:30 - 20:30 | Wussow’s Concert Cafe, 324 N Central Ave, Duluth, MN, 55807, United States
What can we discover when we reclaim the term ‘locker room talk’ and the intimate conversations between women in personal spaces? The Minnesota Book Award winning anthology, “Locker Room Talk: Women in Private Spaces,” lays bare some of these conversations shared by women from Minnesota and beyond, demonstrating how women show up and care for each other, and the power of women to create safe and supportive spaces. Join us for a discussion with editors Michelle Filkins and Margret Aldrich, and contributing author and Duluth resident Julie Gard and contributing authors Jennifer Hopkins and Leslie Miller for readings and a conversation about the book. Following the discussion, audience members are invited to participate in a Q&A session, and have further informal conversation with the featured speakers. The café will be open during the event with food and drink available to buy. Copies of “Locker Room Talk: Women in Private Spaces” will available for purchase, and the evening will finish with a book signing.
About the Speakers
Michelle Filkins is a founding editor of Spout Press and a contributing author to “The Evolution of Human Cooperation and Community Development” (Lexington Books), and “Creating a Transformational Community: The Fundamentals of Stewardship Activities” (Lexington Books). She is a Little Free Library steward and one of the Daunte Wright Memorial caretakers. Currently she is a professor and reference and instruction librarian at Metro State University in St. Paul. She lives in Minneapolis with her husband and two teenage sons.
Margret Aldrich is the author of “The Little Free Library Book” (Coffee House Press), a ten-year veteran of the publishing industry, recipient of an Innovator Award from the Book Industry Study Group, and former Princeton University writing fellow. She has published her work with The Atlantic, Utne Reader, Huffington Post, Book Riot, and others. Today Margret is the director of communications and media relations at the Little Free Library nonprofit organization.
Julie Gard’s most recent prose poetry collection, “I Think I Know You,” won the Northeastern Minnesota Book Award and was a finalist for the INDIES Book of the Year Award. “Home Studies” (New Rivers Press) was a finalist for the Minnesota Book Award, and additional publications include “Scrap: On Louise Nevelson” (Ravenna Press) and two chapbooks. She lives in Duluth, Minnesota and is a Professor of Writing at the University of Wisconsin-Superior.
Jennifer Hopkins has a spectacular cast of characters in the story of her life. Her hope is that anyone reading her story is reminded to build communities of love, strength, and laughter. Jennifer has been in love with the ying to her yang for over twenty years, and they raised a son together. Both men impress her daily with their integrity, devotion, and comedic timing.
Leslie Adrienne Miller’s collections of poetry include “Y,” “The Resurrection Trade,” and “Eat Quite Everything You See” from Graywolf Press, and “Yesterday Had a Man In It,” “Ungodliness,” and “Staying Up For Love” from Carnegie Mellon University Press. Professor of English at the University of St. Thomas, she holds degrees in creative writing and literature from Stephens College, University of Missouri, Iowa Writers Workshop, and University of Houston.
This event is presented in partnership with Wussow’s Concert Cafe, an inclusive and supportive home for local artists, musicians, writers, and everyone in between, and Spout Press, a small, all-volunteer, non-profit literary publisher that publishes and promotes the finest in contemporary experimental writing — mentoring young writers and bringing new and/or under-appreciated voices to the attention of a larger audience. This event is part of the Minnesota Writers Off the Page series, bringing the inspirational voices of Minnesota’s writers directly to readers.
Registration
This event is free but registration is required.
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org
Register Now

New Ulm - Sketches of Minnesota
2025-08-14 17:00 - 20:30 | New Ulm Turner Hall, 102 S State St, New Ulm, MN, 56073, United States
“New Ulm: Come See What’s Brewing”
Join the Minnesota Humanities Center, Danger Boat Productions, and New Ulm Turner Hall for the Sketches of Minnesota civic improv comedy tour! These free events use laughter and comedy to celebrate Minnesota communities, promote dialogue, bridge divides, and help find ways to work constructively across differences in today’s political environment.
Beginning with a catered meal, these gatherings invite audience members to share what makes their town great, what they think people get wrong about it, what local divisions concern them, and what future they imagine. An improv comedy troupe listens in on the conversations, takes everything they heard from residents, and brings it to life on stage through entirely unscripted improv comedy theater.

5:00–6:00 PM: Doors open / Community hour
6:00–7:15 PM: Dinner
7:15–8:00 PM: Performances
8:00–8:30 PM: Talkback

Host Partner: New Ulm Turner Hall
The work of the Minnesota Humanities Center is to create a stronger Minnesota by increasing our understanding of the beauty, wisdom and stories of its people. Through partnerships, we facilitate the spaces, like Sketches of Minnesota, that seek to build connections and deepen understanding of ourselves and our communities in pursuit of a more just society.
Registration
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org
Register Now
