Dear John,

As summer unfolds, our vibrant queer community sets the stage for a season of action amidst a backdrop of local and national political shifts. From the fight for fair pay to the rallying cry against the ongoing genocide in Palestine, there's no shortage of urgent issues demanding our attention. Now, more than ever, it's vital to stay informed, engaged, and active in supporting Palestinians through various means. Let's harness our collective privilege to stand in solidarity, bear witness, and advocate for their freedom, ensuring that no voice goes unheard in this critical moment.

Here's what we’re reading, watching, and listening to this week.

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State energy rebates
At a recent event in St. Paul, COPAL, a nonprofit serving Minnesota's Latin American immigrant community, prepared tamales on induction cooktops to highlight how they can reduce energy bills and greenhouse emissions. While educating the community about healthier, more environmentally friendly cooking options, they also promoted the use of financial incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act and state programs, making clean energy more accessible and affordable for all Minnesotans.
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Farm workers and bird flu
Farm workers face a high risk of bird flu exposure, and although only 2 out of 40 tested have been positive, there is concern that the virus could be more widespread. Unfortunately, most farm workers lack access to healthcare, preventing them from seeking necessary medical attention. Universal healthcare access would ensure these vulnerable workers can receive timely treatment, helping to prevent the spread of potentially pandemic viruses and safeguarding public health.
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Solar energy during hot summers
As heat waves grip parts of the country, the organization overseeing America's electric grid warns of potential power shortages this summer due to high temperatures and increased demand. Despite the risk, a surge in solar power development has improved the overall energy outlook, highlighting the crucial role of renewable energy in enhancing grid reliability and addressing climate change challenges.
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Clean energy school buses
The Biden administration is allocating nearly $1 billion to help 530 school districts, including 15 in Minnesota, replace diesel-fueled school buses with cleaner alternatives, primarily electric models. This initiative, part of the EPA's Clean School Bus Program, aims to improve air quality, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and stimulate local economies by creating jobs in manufacturing and maintenance of clean vehicles.
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Ann Kim’s Uptown to Unionize
Congratulations to the Workers at Kim’s, one of the premier restaurants in Minneapolis, who have super-majority support to join UNITE HERE Local 17. They are actively calling on the company to recognize their Union!
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The Union leader who changed how we think about work
Mary Kay Henry's leadership of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) significantly transformed labor rights, notably through the Fight for $15 and a Union campaign, which secured $150 billion in higher wages for 26 million workers. Despite challenges like the 2018 Supreme Court ruling on union dues and the COVID-19 pandemic, Henry's support for worker-led initiatives, including the Starbucks unionization drive, reshaped public perceptions of fair wages and labor unions.
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Nenookaasi
Camp Nenookaasi is decentralizing in hopes it will encourage more community members to step in to provide more ongoing direct tangible support while we continue to work together to create new possibilities and make strides towards housing and healing for all. Check out more on what this means going forward on their instagram!
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What's up with COVID and how to protect yourself
Check out this super awesome zine loaded with useful updated information on how COVID spreads and ways you can protect yourself.
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Hmong cornhole club
In 2021, Alan Lee, Kou Xiong, Sue Moua, Ger Vang, and Toua Xiong founded a Hmong cornhole club that has since blossomed into the largest in the state, boasting 120 members. This thriving club not only offers a sense of community and camaraderie but also provides a welcoming and safe space for Hmong individuals to engage in a traditionally white-dominated sport.
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Minnesota Pride Month activities
I can't wait for Pride Month this year and plan to attend as many events as possible! If you're looking to celebrate the queer community and have an amazing time, check out this extensive list of Pride events happening across Minnesota!
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And that's a wrap! Send me what you're reading, watching, and listening to.

In solidarity,

Ayanna Lee (they/she)
Digital Manager


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Saint Paul, MN 55114
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