RESPONDING TO CIVIL UNREST
CHRIS PHAM
In the aftermath of the May 25 killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, civil unrest and protests erupted in many cities across the country, including Minneapolis, Fargo and Des Moines. Almost overnight, buildings and businesses were damaged or destroyed, and the owners and employees lost the ability to earn money to pay bills. In many cases, residents lost the only grocery store or pharmacy where they could purchase food, medications and other staples. Within days, Chris Pham, who grew up in north Minneapolis, one of the areas that saw much destruction, and who remains committed to the community, helped organize an event to encourage people to clean up the streets and to raise money for families who had been impacted by the riots. The event, which included a food and supply drive, was a huge success, providing food and supplies to people in the community who had been impacted by the riots. The event brought an outpouring of support, energy and community spirit to the area. Many Fredrikson volunteers, along with their family members, attended, including Lindsey Erdmann, Noah Huisman, Laura Loge, former Fredrikson attorney Eddie Ocampo, Sjur Midness, Dan Mott, Jenny Pusch, Michelle Rockhill and Alyssa Troje. “During times like this, people are often looking for ways to contribute, and trying to figure out what their respective roles are in helping the community. I’ve organized many events over the years, so that was a strength that I believed could be utilized in giving back to the community and helping out. Our fearless leader John Koneck said “Now is our time to help,” so I reached out to a few of my clients and asked if they wanted to help our Fredrikson team, and they all graciously agreed. I couldn’t be more proud to be a part of an event with firm colleagues and clients.” – Chris Pham 2
