Dear John,

We hope you’re doing well! We’re going to get right to the news because we have a lot going on today, planning for the months ahead.

As always, send us what you’re reading and watching. We love to know what’s resonating with you.

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

1. Census

The stakes of the 2020 Census are incredibly high in Minnesota. As AOC broke down in in a Twitter thread, the Census determines billions of dollars in federal funding and our representation in the U.S. House. Read more in the Minnesota Reformer. And if you’re interested in serving as an enumerator, apply to join the Census by Feb. 1.

2. Solidarity

“Not me. Us. That’s how we win.” And that’s how we’ll build a future for our country centering our stories and our voices. Read this Naomi Klein piece about Bernie Sanders and building solidarity.  

3. A New Progressive Era

This piece in NY Mag takes us back in time — to the Obama years and the economic recession — and lands on a simple observation: “the left-wing re-alignment of American politics has already begun.” Read it here.

4. Grammys

More women than ever have been nominated for Grammys, with Lizzo leading the pack. Get a preview from Pitchfork of Sunday’s award show.

5. Ban Conversion Therapy

If Utah can ban LGBTQ conversion therapy, Minnesota can too. Read more.

6. Danez Smith

Danez Smith’s book of poetry Don’t Call Us Dead is one of the most incredible books I (Patrick) have ever read. The Black, queer writer – from St. Paul – has a new book out this week. Check out this piece from City Pages where they talk about sex and body positivity, writing, and their home here in the Twin Cities.

7. Trump Trial

Get caught up on the Senate trial. Updates and highlights from Politico here.

8. Cheer

Netflix’ Cheer is a fascinating, binge-able documentary series about competitive cheerleading at a community college in Texas. The students at the center of the series perform wild stunts, putting their bodies in tremendous physical danger. And they’re mic-ed up while they do it. First, watch the series. Then, read this.  

9. Year of the Rat

Today’s a new moon and the Lunar New Year! Get ready for the year of the Rat in the Chinese Zodiac.

10. Cats Can be Jerks Too

Meet Perdita. She’s a black and white cat in need of a home in North Carolina. And according to her adoption posting, a jerk. Read more.

That’s a wrap.

-- Kenza Hadj-Moussa and Patrick Burke