Minnesota Humanities Center

Online Pedagogy Session – Era Nine: Contested Freedoms
2026-05-21 16:00 - 17:30 (America/Chicago) | Online
Evaluate how recent U.S. history—1990s to present—shaped American debates over democracy, rights, and responses to global and domestic crises. Using content and sources from Dr. Walter Greason, Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) Social Studies Specialist Brittany Rawson-Haeg and experienced classroom educators will lead this hands-on workshop supporting high school U.S. History teachers in designing inquiry-based, standards-aligned units.
All Pedagogy Sessions will be conducted via Zoom. Educators who participate in all Pedagogy Sessions will leave the year with a complete U.S. History course aligned to the new standards.
Educators are invited to participate in companion Content Sessions.
Registration
Pedagogy Sessions are designed for high school U.S. History teachers and may also be relevant for 5th and 7th grade educators. Educators are welcome to register for individual sessions that align with their interests and schedules. Join us for one or more sessions throughout the year.
This event is free but registration is required. Separate registration is required for each offering.
Registration Questions: Brittany.Rawson-Haeg@state.mn.us
Register Now
This offering is part of Navigating the U.S. History Eras: Content, Pedagogy, and Inquiry in the Classroom is a yearlong professional learning opportunity supporting implementation of Minnesota’s 2021 K–12 Academic Standards in Social Studies presented by MHC and MDE.

St. Paul - Learning from Place: Little Mekong Cultural District
2026-05-29 15:00 - 18:00 | XIA Books & Cafe, 422 University Ave W, St. Paul, MN, 55103, United States
St. Paul’s Little Mekong Cultural District invites participants into a vibrant Southeast Asian cultural corridor shaped by migration, resilience, and entrepreneurship along University Avenue. Beginning at XIA Books & Cafe, participants are welcomed by community leader Va-Megn Thoj, who grounds the journey in the story of the Mekong River and its connection to identity and place, while guiding the group through the neighborhood. Along the walk, participants encounter the bold, colorful murals by local artist Kao Lee Thao, hear reflections on the Vietnamese refugee experience, and learn how community-rooted organizations continue to support families across generations. The experience comes alive through the sights and smells of a Lao owned local grocery store, where participants sample exotic fruits and learn about favorite rice and fish sauce brands, along with staple ingredients. At the Hmong Cultural Center, participants deepen their understanding of heritage through storytelling and the sound of the qeej, a traditional Hmong instrument whose breath and movement carry ancestral voice and ceremony. The journey continues through local Cambodian and Thai restaurants, where dishes such as somlaw kao kou, a savory Cambodian soup with green papaya, eggplant, and pumpkin, evoke memories, family traditions, and stories of food across generations and borders. The experience closes with group reflection, inviting participants to connect these sensory and human experiences to a deeper understanding of community, culture, and belonging.
K-12 Educators will receive 3 clock hours upon completion of the event.
This experience is presented in collaboration with Asian Economic Development Association (AEDA), a non-profit organization whose mission is to create economic and cultural opportunities for Twin Cities Asian American.
Registration
To ensure that cost is not a barrier, we have a limited number of complimentary spaces available for Minnesota residents. If you would like to receive a complimentary spot, please register with the discount code FEEWAIVER.
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org | MHC Cancellation Policy
Register Now

Maplewood - Learning from Place: HmongTown Marketplace & Beyond
2026-06-05 15:00 - 18:00 | Pan Asian Center, 3001 White Bear Ave, Maplewood, 55109, United States
This Learning from Place experience offers a rare opportunity to witness the becoming of place through an inspiring vision of founder and CEO of HmongTown Marketplace and Pan Asian Center, Toua Xiong, who dreamed of having a place to call home. Beginning at the Pan Asian Center, participants are welcomed by Yao Yaj, Executive Director of HmongTown Connections who will share 50 years of Hmong resilience and economic contributions while traveling to the iconic HmongTown Marketplace. There, participants step into a vibrant marketplace rooted in culture and tradition, where many vendors and community members are from an older generation, carrying forward cultural knowledge and memories through everyday commerce. Participants experience rows of fresh herbs, traditional goods, and street foods like Hmong sausage, papaya salad, and steamed fish, while sampling exotic fruits and tri color dessert.
The journey returns to Pan Asian Center, where participants will have the opportunity to hear Toua Xiong share his inspiring story surviving the jungles of Laos to mastering English and the hard lessons navigating city codes and permits in his pursuit to create a place to call home. The program ends just in time for participants to experience the full flair of Asian Street Food Night Market.
Through this experience, participants gain tangible insight into how communities evolve over time, how cultural assets can drive economic development, and how investing in place can strengthen identity, expand opportunity, and shape the future for the next generation.
K-12 Educators will receive 3 clock hours upon completion of the event.
This experience is presented in collaboration with HmongTown Connections, whose mission is to create spaces where Hmong can live, work, and connect while preserving, teaching, and sharing Hmong history, languages and culture.
Registration
To ensure that cost is not a barrier, we have a limited number of complimentary spaces available for Minnesota residents. If you would like to receive a complimentary spot, please register with the discount code FEEWAIVER.
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org | MHC Cancellation Policy
Register Now

Itasca - We Are Water MN
2026-06-18 - 2026-08-10 | Itasca State Park, 36750 Main Park Drive, Park Rapids, MN, 56470, 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: MN DNR Itasca State Park and U of M Itasca Biological Station
As we reach the height of summer in Minnesota, We Are Water MN travels north to a deeply significant site for water in our state: the headwaters of the mighty Mississippi River! The water found at Lake Itasca begins here and flows on its winding way 2552 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. Join the thousands of visitors from all over the state, country, and world this summer and see the We Are Water MN exhibit next to the serenity and natural beauty of Lake Itasca, a national landmark.
This hosting will be within Itasca State Park, run by the DNR, and co-led by the U of M Itasca Biological Station, an active field station devoted to research and teaching on how ecosystems work, with an eye to cultivating an appreciation of their value and preservation for future generations. Itasca Station has been in operation since 1907 and is one of the oldest continuously operational field stations in the United States of America.
About We Are Water MN?
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Minneapolis - Juneteenth Brunch
2026-06-18 08:45 - 11:00 | Quincy Hall, 1325 Quincy St NE, Minneapolis, MN, 55413, United States
Please join us for the annual Juneteenth Brunch to hear award-winning author and poet Clint Smith in conversation with MHC’s CEO Kevin Lindsey. Their conversation will connect the history of Juneteenth to the broader American story – examining how freedom has been defined, delayed, expanded, and calls of us today.
In addition to wonderful food, music, and company, all attendees will receive a copy of Mr. Smith’s book, “How the Word is Passed: Remembering Slavery and How It Shaped America.”
Since 2022, MHC has hosted a series of Juneteenth events to examine African American narratives, history, and experience in fulfilling the ideals articulated within the Declaration of Independence.
Registration
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org
Individual Tickets: Register now to take advantage of special early bird pricing that ends on Monday, May 18: $75 for individual tickets.
Price will go up to $100 per ticket on Tuesday, May 19.
Individual Ticket
Full (10 seats) or Half Tables (5 seats): Buy your tables now to take advantage of special early bird pricing that ends on Monday, May 18: $700 for a full table, $350 for a half table, and $600 for nonprofit full table, $300 for a half table.
Price will go up to $800 for a full table, $400 for a half table on Tuesday, May 19.
Full or Half Table

St. Paul - Learning from Place: Bdote
2026-06-23 08:30 - 14:30 | Fort Snelling State Park, 101 Snelling Lake Road, St. Paul, MN, 55111, United States
Learning from Place: Bdote is a place-based experience led by Dakota community members at sites of deep significance in the Twin Cities. Participants engage with Dakota history and contemporary perspectives through story, observation, and shared reflection.
This experience is open to the general public and is particularly beneficial for educators and others seeking to deepen their understanding of Minnesota history and Dakota perspectives. Due to the nature of the content and the length of the day, this experience is not recommended for young children.
For more information, visit the Learning from Place: Bdote program page.

Co-Leads (click to expand/collapse)
Ramona Kitto Stately is an enrolled member of the Santee Sioux Dakhóta Nation. She has a BA in Dakota Art and Culture and a MAE in Teacher Leadership. She is Project Director for We Are Still Here Minnesota and serves as chairperson of the Minnesota Indian Education Association. Ramona was the recipient of the 2021 Ron McKinley Award from Minnesota Education Equity Partnership and the 2023 McKnight Culture Bearers Award. She currently serves on the Indigenous Elder Advisory Board for Carleton College.
Fern Naomi Renville is an artist, storyteller, enrolled citizen of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, and seventh-generation descendant of Chief Gabriel Renville. Born on the Lake Traverse Reservation in South Dakota, Fern currently lives and works in Saint Paul as an educator sharing music, story, and land-based learning to promote greater understanding and knowledge of Dakota people.

What to Expect (click to expand/collapse)

You will visit Bdote (Fort Snelling State Park)* in the morning and Wic̣aḣapi** in the afternoon, with a break for lunch on your own.

A Minnesota state park vehicle permit is required for Fort Snelling State Park. [Day passes can be purchased in advance.]
You will walk up to one mile over mostly flat terrain with periods of standing. You are welcome to bring a small folding or camping chair for comfort.
The experience takes place outdoors; please dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.
Some of the content may bring up strong emotions.

*Fort Snelling State Park: 101 Snelling Lake Road, St. Paul – access is via Post Road, near the Mpls.-St. Paul Airport
**Wic̣aḣapi: Mounds Blvd and Earl St., St. Paul

Accessibility (click to expand/collapse)
For information about accessibility and physical considerations, please visit the FAQ section of the Learning from Place: Bdote program page. If you have additional questions or would like to discuss your needs, contact Eden Bart.

K-12 educators will receive 5 clock hours.
Participants provide their own transportation, lunch, snacks, and beverages.
Registration
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org | MHC Cancellation Policy
Register Now

St. Paul - Feeding Our Souls: The Essence of Juneteenth Joy
2026-06-23 17:30 - 20:30 | St. Paul College, 235 Marshall Ave, St. Paul, 55102, United States
Upon hearing the news of the Emancipation Proclamation, African Americans celebrated by singing songs of worship, dancing, and eating good food. In commemoration, MHC invites you to Jubilee where you will enjoy Spirituals and music from Vocal Essence under the direction of G. Phillip Shoultz, hear stories about the wonderful intersection of food and music, and be treated to delicious dishes and treats from prominent local Black chefs.
Since 2022, MHC has offered a series of Juneteenth events to examine African American narratives, history, and experience in fulfilling the ideals articulated within the Declaration of Independence.
Registration
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org
Register Now

St. Paul - Kumbayah The Juneteenth Story, 30th Anniversary
2026-06-26 14:00 - 16:30 | The O’Shaughnessy at St. Catherine University, 2004 Randolph Ave, St. Paul, MN, 55105, United States
Join us for the 30th anniversary of this beloved stage performance that brings the audience on a journey through time and the imagined impact of the Emancipation Proclamation.
Kumbayah The Juneteenth Story, written by Rose McGee, is a 90-minute two-act play that addresses a factual and traumatic time in our history – when news was deliberately withheld that Black people were no longer to be kept enslaved in this country. Storytelling and music weave together mesmerizing scenes. Although tragedy is depicted, this play within a play is tremendously uplifting. For this anniversary performance, the audience will be treated to special guest appearances from cast members from previous years, who grew up as a part of this important story.
Although interpretation is best suited for ages 8 and up, children of all ages are welcome to attend.
Registration
This event is free, however registration through The O’Shaughnessy at St. Catherine’s University is required.
Registration Questions: oshaughnessy@stkate.edu
Register Now

Minneapolis - Learning from Place: Somali South Minneapolis
2026-07-16 15:00 - 18:00 | Somali Museum, 2950 Chicago Ave, Suite C, Minneapolis, 55407, United States
South Minneapolis is home to a vibrant corridor of Somali owned businesses, cultural institutions, and public art that reflect the community’s resilience, cultural pride, and contributions to Minneapolis. This Learning from Place experience begins at the Somali Museum, where participants will learn about Somali cultural heritage and, if scheduling allows, experience traditional dance. The group will then take a short walk to Hoyo Sambusa to sample sambusa and watch a cooking demonstration, where founder Mariam will share the story behind her social enterprise and the cultural significance of sambusa in Somali homes and gatherings.
Participants will continue along the Lake Street corridor with mural artist Guulsan, who will guide a mural walk and share the stories and inspiration behind his artwork, offering insight into how public art expresses community identity and shapes how stories of place are remembered and shared. Along the way, the group will visit Zizi Boutique, celebrating its 10-year anniversary, to learn about Somali fashion and clothing. The experience concludes at the bustling iconic Karmel Mall, a central marketplace for Somali businesses, where participants can explore the shops and continue reflection over warm chai.
K-12 Educators will receive 3 clock hours upon completion of the event.
This experience is curated by Yusra Mohamud, as a longtime connector within South Minneapolis’s East African community, Yusra brings a rare combination of deep cultural roots and a gift for storytelling that transforms corridors into living narratives of resilience, identity, and belonging.
Registration
To ensure that cost is not a barrier, we have a limited number of complimentary spaces available for Minnesota residents. If you would like to receive a complimentary spot, please register with the discount code FEEWAIVER.
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org | MHC Cancellation Policy
Register Now

Minneapolis - Learning from Place: Exploring Minnesota’s Religious Landscapes
2026-08-06 09:00 - 14:00 | Temple Israel, 2323 Fremont Ave S, Minneapolis, MN, 55405, United States
This Learning from Place experience invites participants to explore Minnesota’s rich religious landscape through visits to three faith communities in the Twin Cities: Temple Israel, Masjid An-Nur (mosque), and The Basilica of St. Mary. Traveling together by bus, participants will engage in guided visits, storytelling, and facilitated dialogue that deepen understanding of how religious traditions shape the cultural, historical, and civic life of our state.
As participants move through each space, they will learn the significance these places hold and consider how identity, migration, and community life intersect in Minnesota.
Throughout the experience, facilitators will provide context and guide reflection, supporting participants in making connections across sites and considering the implications for their own roles in a pluralistic democracy. Time will also be set aside for a shared lunch and informal reflection.
Come ready to listen, reflect, and engage with curiosity and questions.
K-12 Educators will receive 5 clock hours upon completion of the event.
This experience is presented in collaboration with Minnesota Multifaith Network (MnMN), a non-profit organization committed to convening and connecting leaders, organizations, and individuals across religious, spiritual, and philosophical differences in Minnesota to cultivate understanding, advance justice, overcome fear, and build a more inclusive and compassionate community.
Registration
Registration coming soon!

Little Falls - We Are Water MN
2026-08-13 - 2026-10-05 | Great River Arts, 122 1st Street SE, Little Falls, MN, 56345, 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: Great River Arts
As the summer comes to a close and fall sets in, join We Are Water MN at Great River Arts (GRA) in Little Fall, where creativity meets community. GRA exists to enrich lives through the arts and become the art hub for the Morrison County area, playing a significant role in sustaining the community’s artistic and economic vibrancy. From live theater and music performances to continuous visual art exhibits, art classes for youth and adults, and now the We Are Water MN exhibit, come see how all of the wonderful things that happen when water and art meet!
We are especially excited that the exhibit will be in town during the annual and always highly anticipated Little Falls Arts and Crafts Fair, September 12-13. We look forward to bringing We Are Water MN to the thousands of art enthusiasts visiting the heart of downtown Little Falls.
For this hosting, Great River Arts is partnered with the City of Little Falls, the Franciscan Sisters of Little Falls, and the Morrison Soil & Water Conservation District.
About We Are Water MN?
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Empire - Learning from Place: Watt Munisotaram (Cambodian Temple)
2026-08-13 13:00 - 16:00 | Watt Munisotaram, 2925 220th St E, Empire, 55031, United States
What does it mean to learn from a place shaped by history, migration, and spiritual practice?
This Learning from Place experience invites participants to explore Watt Munisotaram, the largest Cambodian Buddhist temple in the United States, located in the countryside of Empire, Minnesota. Participants will engage with the temple as a living cultural and spiritual site, learning directly from community members, monks, and the landscape itself.
As we move through the temple grounds, we will explore Cambodia’s history and the experiences that brought Cambodian families to Minnesota – home to the fifth-largest Cambodian population in the United States. Through stories and guided exploration, participants will learn how Watt Munisotaram serves as a place of cultural continuity, community connection, and spiritual life.
Participants will hear from community members and Buddhist monks, explore the temple’s architecture and symbolism, enjoy traditional Cambodian foods, and participate in a brief guided meditation as a way to learn about a practice central to Cambodian Buddhist traditions.
K-12 Educators will receive 3 clock hours upon completion of the event.
This experience is presented in collaboration with Cambodian American Partnership (CAPMN), a non-profit organization committed to building a resilient community that honors Cambodian history by cultivating a sense of belonging.
Registration
To ensure that cost is not a barrier, we have a limited number of complimentary spaces available for Minnesota residents. If you would like to receive a complimentary spot, please register with the discount code FEEWAIVER.
Registration Questions: registrations@mnhum.org | MHC Cancellation Policy
Register Now

St. Paul - Learning from Place: Bdote
2026-09-19 08:30 - 14:30 | Fort Snelling State Park, 101 Snelling Lake Road, St. Paul, MN, 55111, United States
Learning from Place: Bdote is a place-based experience led by Dakota community members at sites of deep significance in the Twin Cities. Participants engage with Dakota history and contemporary perspectives through story, observation, and shared reflection.
This experience is open to the general public and is particularly beneficial for educators and others seeking to deepen their understanding of Minnesota history and Dakota perspectives. Due to the nature of the content and the length of the day, this experience is not recommended for young children.
For more information, visit the Learning from Place: Bdote program page.

Co-Leads (click to expand/collapse)
Ramona Kitto Stately is an enrolled member of the Santee Sioux Dakhóta Nation. She has a BA in Dakota Art and Culture and a MAE in Teacher Leadership. She is Project Director for We Are Still Here Minnesota and serves as chairperson of the Minnesota Indian Education Association. Ramona was the recipient of the 2021 Ron McKinley Award from Minnesota Education Equity Partnership and the 2023 McKnight Culture Bearers Award. She currently serves on the Indigenous Elder Advisory Board for Carleton College.
Fern Naomi Renville is an artist, storyteller, enrolled citizen of the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate, and seventh-generation descendant of Chief Gabriel Renville. Born on the Lake Traverse Reservation in South Dakota, Fern currently lives and works in Saint Paul as an educator sharing music, story, and land-based learning to promote greater understanding and knowledge of Dakota people.

What to Expect (click to expand/collapse)

You will visit Bdote (Fort Snelling State Park)* in the morning and Wic̣aḣapi** in the afternoon, with a break for lunch on your own.

A Minnesota state park vehicle permit is required for Fort Snelling State Park. [Day passes can be purchased in advance.]
You will walk up to one mile over mostly flat terrain with periods of standing. You are welcome to bring a small folding or camping chair for comfort.
The experience takes place outdoors; please dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.
Some of the content may bring up strong emotions.

*Fort Snelling State Park: 101 Snelling Lake Road, St. Paul – access is via Post Road, near the Mpls.-St. Paul Airport
**Wic̣aḣapi: Mounds Blvd and Earl St., St. Paul

Accessibility (click to expand/collapse)
For information about accessibility and physical considerations, please visit the FAQ section of the Learning from Place: Bdote program page. If you have additional questions or would like to discuss your needs, contact Eden Bart.

K-12 educators will receive 5 clock hours.
Participants provide their own transportation, lunch, snacks, and beverages.

Registration
Registration for this event will open on July 27, 2026.

Minneapolis - Learning from Place: Somali Cedar Riverside
2026-10-02 15:00 - 18:00 | Brian Coyle Neighborhood Center, 420 South 15th Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, 55454, United States
Cedar Riverside is the heart of the East African community in Minneapolis and home to one of the largest Somali populations in the United States. Over time, Somali Minnesotans have shaped the neighborhood into a vibrant cultural corridor filled with businesses, mosques, and gathering spaces where community life unfolds each day.
Participants will begin at Brian Coyle Community Center and hear from respected community leader Halimo Ainte, who will share reflections on Somali migration, community building, and the transformation of Cedar Riverside into a thriving East African neighborhood. Participants will also visit neighborhood spaces such as a local mosque and nearby businesses that serve as everyday gathering places.
The experience includes a Somali coffee ceremony that reflects the tradition of roasting spices as a vehicle for welcome, conversation, and connection. The learning tour concludes with Somali food samples and reflections.
K-12 Educators will receive 3 clock hours upon completion of the event.
This experience is curated by Yusra Mohamud, as a longtime connector within South Minneapolis’s East African community, Yusra brings a rare combination of deep cultural roots and a gift for storytelling that transforms corridors into living narratives of resilience, identity, and belonging.
Registration
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT.

Blaine - We Are Water MN
2026-10-08 - 2026-11-30 | Northtown Library, 711 County Hwy 10 NE, Blaine, MN, 55434, 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: Anoka County Library
We Are Water MN will round out its 2026 tour at the Northtown Library in Blaine! Anoka County Libraries exist to serve their communities and connect them to resources and learning, and We Are Water MN is no exception, bringing water education and engagement to the library. Fun fact: Anoka County is the 4th largest county in the state of Minnesota, comprised of over 360,000 residents! Libraries are naturally places people go to learn, and we look forward to seeing the many water related resources, books, book discussions, and beyond!
Though most of the programming at Northtown will happen indoors, the library also features beautiful outdoor grounds, with a pond and Shoreline Buffer Garden that are on library premises. Join us outside for nature programming!
About We Are Water MN?
We are Water MN is a project of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and the Minnesota Humanities Center in partnership with the Minnesota Historical Society; the Board of Water and Soil Resources; the Minnesota Departments of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources; and University of Minnesota Extension.
Learn more about the We Are Water MN exhibit, partnership, and programs.
Learn More

Save the Date! 2027 Project Citizen Showcase
2027-05-04 | MN
What happens when students investigate issues in their communities, research public policy solutions, and present their ideas to decision-makers?
Join us for the 2027 Project Citizen Student Showcase, where student teams from across Minnesota will share their civic engagement projects with educators, community members, and judges. This event will highlight the research, creativity, and civic leadership of young people learning how to engage in democracy by becoming active leaders in defining and implementing democratic public policy.
More details about participation and registration will be shared in the coming months.
Learn more about Project Citizen and upcoming opportunities on the Minnesota Center for Civic Education program page.
