April 18, 2024 - MN Spokesman-Recorder

By Cole Miska Contributing

Writer

By Jimmy Lee

eal spring weather has begun to drive

representing each sport will enter St. Paul’s Municipal

■ See SPORT LIGHT on page 5

By Tommy Witta

he Minneapolis City Council voted unanimously on April 11 to delay the start of its new rideshare ordinance by two months.

Instead of going into effect on May 1, the new start date is slated for July 1, giving the council more time to consider possible amendments to the law and giving new rideshare providers more time to set up.

Councilmember Aurin Chowdhury said four rideshare startups have submitted applications for licensing as of April 10 to replace Uber and Lyft if

hen Shauntae Hobbs found her teenage daughter Trisha (whose name has been changed to protect her identity) in contact with a 22-yearold man, she did as many parents would and forbade her daughter from having further contact. When Hobbs found Trisha still talking to the man, she took a more drastic measure and pulled her out of a play where Trisha had one of the lead roles. In response, Tri-

sha ran away from home.

Despite a snowstorm that night, Hobbs searched for Trisha and filed a missing person report with police. At the same time, an anonymous caller put in a tip with the Minnesota Department of Human Services’ Child Does Child

State’s Ethnic Studies Work Group takes up its controversial task

n Monday and Tuesday, April 15-16, members of the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) Ethnic Studies Working Group began developing the framework for the state’s Ethnic Studies legislation, which was passed during the 2023 session. According to the list of group members provided by MDE, the 27-member group

consists of ethnic studies teachers, parents, community members, college-level faculty, school board members, administrators, and four high school students. They will determine the necessary resources for districts to meet ethnic studies’ operational requirements. Geographic and social diversity among members will likely cause disagreements about what this framework should encompass, as the working group includes members from Burnsville, Rochester, Cloquet, Stillwater, Minneapolis, St. Paul, and Roseville. According to the MDE, “Ethnic Studies” means the interdisciplinary study of race, ethnicity and indigeneity, focusing on the experiences and perspectives of people of color within and beyond the United States. Ethnic studies analyzes how race and racism have been and continue to be social, cultural and political forces, and

Faculty diversity is still not representative of the students they teach. Photo by NNPA

New rideshare ordinance goes into effect July 1

they depart. They are MOOV, MyWeels, Joiryde and Wridz. Chowdhury authored the amendment to delay the implementation of the new ordinance.

“I believe the extension of the implementation date is a really good thing for us here to accomplish things...for the ordinance that is really meant to support a fair minimum wage for drivers in the City of Minneapolis and give riders an opportunity to participate in a rideshare economy that is rooted in justice for workers,” Chowdhury said.

During the April 11 meeting, Councilmember Linea Palmisano

introduced a measure to rescind the rideshare ordinance altogether, citing the “negative public opinion and outcry” as reason to “start over.” The vote failed, with only Palmisano, Michael Rainville and LaTrisha Vetaw in favor and 10 against.

An investigation by the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry into rideshare services showed a pay level of up to $1.21 per mile and 49 cents per minute for a ride across the Twin Cities would meet Minneapolis’ minimum wage of $15.57 an hour. However, the

Pushback is expected throughout this legislative mandate, which many view as long overdue. Others say it is just education forced upon their children.

By Stacy M. Brown

new study conducted by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), commissioned by Congressman Bobby Scott (D-Virginia), has unveiled concerning trends regarding the representation of Black and Hispanic faculty members in higher education institutions. Despite modest increases in their numbers over the past two decades, Black and Hispanic individuals remain significantly underrepresented among college faculty.

The study, which examined data spanning from fiscal years

2003 to 2021, found that while the proportions of Black and Hispanic faculty members have seen slight upticks, they continue to lag behind their representation in the broader workforce, particularly among workers with advanced degrees and professionals.

Further, the study highlighted a stark disparity between the racial and ethnic composition of faculty and that of the student body, indicating a systemic issue within higher education.

“Addressing the underrepresentation of Black and Hispanic faculty is not only a matter of

■ See HIGHER EDU on page 5

■ See RIDESHARE on page 5 Courtesy of Freepiks

Jimmy Lee, the namesake of St. Paul’s Jimmy Lee Center, was a regular sports columnist in the St. Paul Recorder. This column, Sport Light, was published on Friday, April 26, 1940.

Jimmy Lee

By Tony Kiene Contributing Writer

Fifty miles northeast of Lubbock lies the West Texas farming town of Floydada. “That is where I developed my sense of community,” reminisces Dr. BraVada Garrett-Akinsanya, “and that it doesn’t necessarily refer to someone who lives next door.”

Although only a handful of Black families resided there when Garrett-Akinsanya was growing up, people “always looked out for one another, no matter who they were or where they came from.”

The sixth of seven children born to Austin and Lavada Garrett, she was the first girl, following five boys. “At first my mom wanted to name me Bravo,” says Garrett-Akinsanya. “She was so thrilled to have a girl in the house.”

She settled on BraVada, an offshoot of the word “bravado,” to instill in her daughter the idea that she was “bold, daring and audacious.” So, when contemplating the Christian name her mother gave her, the surname passed down from her grandfather, and her married name (Yoruba for “one who recovers through strength and power),” Garrett-Akinsanya found collective meaning in all of them. “I see myself as an African American woman boldly recovering from the vestiges of slavery to regain her strength and power,” she affirms. “That’s how I define how I walk in this world.”

While it didn’t take long for Garrett-Akinsanya to figure out what she wanted to do in life, she admits her pre-teen rationale wasn’t precisely what

you’d call “inspirational.”

“Chad Everett starred on this TV show ‘Medical Center,’ and his girlfriend on the show was a psychologist,” she laughs. “So I surmised that maybe I could have a boyfriend like that myself if I became a psychologist.”

Her initial motivation marshaled real meaning when Garrett-Akinsanya accompanied her mother to Lubbock for her appointment with an optometrist. “The medical center there had many different doctor’s offices, and one was for a psychologist,” she recounts. “So I walked in and announced that I’d like to see the doctor.”

Upon verifying that Garrett-Akinsanya didn’t have an appointment herself, the receptionist asked, “Why do you want to see the psychologist?”

“Because I want to become a psychologist one day too,”

she replied.

Eventually, a tall, heavy-set white man with reddish hair came out to the lobby, where he asked, “Hi, little lady, what can I do for you?” After sharing her professional dreams with the man, she asked, “What do I need to do now?”

“Well,” he said, “Study hard in school and take many different classes. Make A’s on your report card, then go to college. And then, you go to college some more.”

After thanking him, GarrettAkinsanya was about to leave when he said one more thing she’ll never forget: “Hurry up and stick to it. We need you out here!” That set her on a mission: She would become a clinical psychologist. A few years later, she enrolled at Texas Tech University in Lubbock. As she

approached graduation, Garrett-Akinsanya was accepted to several graduate schools. However, none offered money toward tuition. Afraid her dream was over, she turned to her father, who ensured her things would work out.

Just before earning her B.A., she gained admittance to and funding for the graduate program in psychology at Texas Tech. When she modeled her cap and gown for her dad, he looked at her and said, “I’ve waited my whole life to see a Garrett graduate from college.”

While visiting the funeral home later that day to say her final goodbyes, GarrettAkinsanya promised her dad that she’d “take this all the way.” In 1990, she became the first African American at Texas Tech to earn a Ph.D. in clinical psychology.

She began her career as assistant director with the University of Houston’s downtown counseling center before moving on to the professional faculty at the University of Texas at Austin.

Recruited by Washburn Center, Garrett-Akinsanya notes that her initial response to that prospect was, “Oh, hell to the no,” adding that the snow and cold of Minnesota was not for “this Texas girl.” However, her husband, Akinyele, convinced her to at least consider it, and the idea that she could make a difference in the lives of Black children who might lack culturally competent care tipped the balance in Washburn’s favor.

in helping organizations identify and address race and gender bias.

“I saw that there was a critical need for this kind of work here,” she explains, “including teaching clinicians how to work cross-culturally.”

As a practitioner working with those impacted by intimate partner violence, Garrett-Akinsanya’s clinical work and philosophy center around the use and abuse of power.

“Black women and other women of color suffer disproportionately from physical, psychological and emotional abuse, says Garrett-Akinsanya.

“This isolation makes them unsafe,” she adds, citing the need for community inclusion, emotional affirmation, and other tools to aid in healing.

In 2009, Garrett-Akinsanya founded the African American Child Wellness Institute, a “culturally specific, traumainformed agency” that provides children and their families access to mental health services and “holistic wellness resources.”

“Our children are abused too. They are overrepresented in special education, out-ofhome placement, and protective services. Some entities are making a lot of money off Black pain.” It’s around the health and wellness of children where Garrett-Akinsanya voices perhaps her most notable clarion call.

Garrett-Akinsanya spent two years at Washburn before venturing into private practice and establishing Brakins Consulting & Psychological Services, where, in addition to working with children and the victims of intimate partner violence, she specializes

After walking the stage at commencement, receiving her diploma in the very coliseum that her father helped build years before, a call came over the PA system asking her to locate her family. As she approached, she noticed her father wasn’t there, having passed away before the ceremony.

“We have to get back to sharing responsibility for children, where we believe that all kids are our kids. Because, indeed, they are all our babies.” Tony

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Eco-friendly finance

Celebrating Earth Day with green investment options

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MSR + JPMorgan Chase have partnered to bring you the Finance FYI series. JPMorgan Chase is committed to helping close the racial wealth gap and driving economic inclusion for Black, Hispanic, and Latino communities. For more Finance FYI, visit spokesman-recorder.com/category/finances-fyi.

Water is a precious resource, and investing in companies focused on water conservation can be both financially rewarding and environmentally impactful.

Photo: tonaorh via 123RF

Photo: leddamarita via 123RF

SPORT LIGHT

Continued from page 1

Leagues. The baseball team will be sponsored by the C and G recreation and will play their first game Saturday, May 12, against the strong Northern Envelope team, last year known as the J.J. Kohns and

CPS

Continued from page 1

Protection Services (CPS) division. CPS discovered Trisha at her great-grandparents’ house.

After informing Hobbs of Trisha’s whereabouts, CPS closed its case. Trisha decided she was not ready to return to living with Hobbs and elected to stay at Brittany’s Place, a shelter in St. Paul. Hobbs agreed to let Trisha stay at Brittany’s Place for one month; however, when she was going to pick Trisha up, she got a call from CPS saying they were reopening the case and that Trisha was now suicidal.

CPS also opened cases on Hobbs’s other two 17-year-

ETHNIC STUDIES

Continued from page 1

the connection of race to the stratification of other groups, including stratification based on the protected classes under Minnesota Statutes 2022, section 363A.13.

Others who push back on Ethnic Studies cite it as white guilt heaped upon their kids, causing white students to reexamine who they are. It is unclear how Ethnic Studies will transfer to Minnesota classrooms. The MDE information continues with what is expected from the framework. It reads:

“The Minnesota Department of Education supports Ethnic Studies achievement for all students through statewide collaboratives so that all students achieve academic standards and are equipped in postsecondary and career success.”

A member spoke with the MSR before the group sessions

HIGHER EDU

Continued from page 1

diversity but also impacts the overall quality of education and student outcomes,” study authors wrote. “It’s imperative that we hold institutions accountable for fostering inclusive environments that reflect the diversity of our society.”

The study identified the processing of employment discrimination complaints as one significant barrier. Both current and prospective faculty members have the option to file complaints with either the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Department of Education. However, the study revealed persistent delays in the referral

RIDESHARE

Continued from page 1

city’s new ordinance requires drivers to be paid $1.40 per mile and 51 cents per minute.

Champions of the league two years previous. The game will be played on Como 1. Managers Ware and Walton have not announced their battery yet, but it’s almost a lead pipe cinch that Johnny Walton, a veteran in City League competition, and “Foots” McCarey will get the nod — In kittenball, the St. Philip’s Men’s Club will enter a team

old children. Hobbs was required to get a mental health assessment and get therapy for herself and her 17-yearold children. However, Hobbs alleges that Trisha, who was in the State’s custody at the time, was not given therapy for months, even after saying she was suicidal.

No opportunity was given for Trish and Hobbs to do family therapy together. After a three-month evaluation, the CPS cases on Hobbs’ other children were closed, with Hobbs maintaining custody.

“It’s hard, because my children are at home, they miss their sister, they want to see her,” Hobbs said. “I miss my daughter, and this county did nothing to make sure that our family was reunited. They

began and told us that while genuinely excited to contribute to this purpose, they don’t think there is enough time, as this process will be completed in October. “Six months just doesn’t seem long enough to work through the development of something this important,” the group member said.

Why is Ethnic Studies critical? For many, the importance of Ethnic Studies is raised by first asking why legislation was needed to teach it. Why wasn’t it being taught? Others attribute it to the historical whitewashing of education in our classrooms as a purposeful tool of racial identity, empowerment, and privilege.

“Ethnic Studies is also American history,” said activist and former St. Paul educator Yusef Mgeni. “The fact that the legislature and the MDE have both endorsed Ethnic Studies requirements in the schools is a real plus for giving people the opportunity to explore and learn more about American history, and more importantly, to see them-

of complaints from the Department of Education to the EEOC.

“It’s imperative that we hold institutions accountable for fostering inclusive environments that reflect the diversity of our society.”

In fiscal year 2022 alone, the Department of Education processed and referred 99 complaints alleging employment discrimination at colleges, with an average referral

Councilmembers Andrea Jenkins and Emily Koski introduced an amendment that aligns more closely with the state’s study on rideshare services. The amendment pays drivers $1.21 per mile and maintains the new law’s perminute rate at 51 cents. However, it also failed by a 3-10 vote, with Jenkins and Koski joined by Katie Cashman in favor. Uber and Lyft have said they

We also observed that Bert Davidson, Johnny Williams, Charles Noble and President Duke Coram are all geared in high for the coming seasons.

in Class A kittenball. Coach Earl Cannon does not expect his boys to win the pennant since he realizes the league is just a wee bit fast for the group he has assembled. However, there is assurance they will play entertaining

actually did the exact opposite.” Hobbs believes that having been in CPS’s systems before— having lost custody of her kids nine years ago and only having recently regained custody—was used as justification to open cases on her other children.

“Once you’re in the system, you’re in the system, and they really try to keep you in that system.”

“Once you’re in the system, you’re in the system, and they

selves reflected in that learning.”

The Ethnic Studies terrain in Minnesota is filled with potholes. In September 2021, Becky Z. Derbach wrote on social studies standards for the Sahan Journal: “The new ethnic studies strand is already facing threatened legal challenges and questions about compliance with state statutes

really try to keep you in that system,” Hobbs said.

Due to her experience, Hobbs wants to see a more diligent screening process for tips received by CPS. She holds concern about the ease of filing anonymous false reports, saying she believes some people in the community use CPS reports as a weapon to get revenge on others by trying to get their kids taken away.

“A lot of times, people call in [to CPS] out of spite,” Hobbs said. People call in just to get back at somebody or hurt someone, especially if you see they had multiple [past] calls.”

According to the Minneapolis NAACP, African American parents are over three times more likely than white parents to be reported to CPS, and

social studies for a decade, starting no sooner than the 2024–25 school year. On a basic level, these standards will inform lesson plans in history, government, geography and economics in K-12 schools throughout the state.

But on a larger level, these social studies standards will shape the ways young Min-

ball, and this year’s experience will make them ripe for next season. Simme Scroggins and Albert Harris will probably get the opening day assignment — Badminton, the little feather game, is all the rage down at the Hallie Q. Brown gym these days. Seen smashing the shuttlecock around the court almost every Monday after-

they are much more likely to have their children removed for lesser charges.

In an email to the Spokesman-Recorder, DHS said its vision for child and family wellbeing included reducing racial disparities in CPS interactions.

“DHS remains deeply concerned about the pattern of disproportionate placements concerning African American children in Minnesota,” a DHS spokesman said.

noon are Lela Boyd, Cordelia Martin, Cora Belle Banks, Louise Hargrave, Essie Stewart, Ermine Allen, Lucille Hargrave, and Meredith Howell. The leaders of the group are Beatrice Vassar and Laura Jeffrey, recreation leaders.

To view more historical treasures, please visit: spokesmanrecorder.com.

vise these standards can seem incredibly specific: Should Minnesota students be required to learn about major world religions, such as Sikhism? It can seem philosophical: Were there any benefits to colonization, or is colonialism inherently bad? It can resemble a Lin-Manuel Miranda lyric: Who lives, who dies, who tells your story?

from state lawmakers and a conservative think tank. Even the committee members who created the new ethnic studies strand say they felt frustrated with the released draft.

The revised standards will form the backbone of how Minnesota schools teach

time of 71 days—well beyond the mandated 30-day period. Such delays not only prolong the resolution process but also perpetuate instances of discrimination and inequity within academia.

Additionally, the study uncovered deficiencies in the EEOC’s tracking and processing of complaint referrals. Despite receiving complaints referred by the Department of Education, the study concluded that the EEOC needs a consistent protocol to ensure the timely receipt and processing of these referrals. The lack of accountability poses risks of oversight and further delays in addressing discrimination complaints, the authors stated.

In response to the findings, the GAO has issued recommendations aimed at

will pull services from Minneapolis on May 1 if the new ordinance goes into effect. While Lyft hasn’t made an official statement, Uber said it will delay its withdrawal to July 1 to align with the city council’s vote.

nesotans learn to think about themselves, their state, and each other. Now, those questions sit at the center of a political firestorm currently playing out on conservative media airwaves and in school board meetings across the state. The debate over how to re-

enhancing accountability and efficiency in the processing of discrimination complaints. Scott has urged swift action from both the Department of Education and the EEOC to address the systemic disparities and processing delays highlighted in the study.

“The good news is that faculty diversity has improved over the last 20 years. The bad news is that faculty diversity is still not representative of the students they teach,” Scott stated.

According to the study authors, historically Black colleges and universities, among other minority-serving establishments, have had success in nurturing and advancing academic members of color into tenure-track jobs, which offer greater security than adjunct

Lyft has said it supports the state investigation findings and would be willing to remain in the city on those terms. Mayor Jacob Frey urged the city council to adjust the new ordinance, saying the city’s policy should be based on data and not on “ideologies.”

Tommy Witta writes for Bring Me the News. Article courtesy of Bring Me the News.

The standards debate can also feel like an election strategy to fuel white grievance politics. All summer, parents have stormed school board meetings demanding the removal of critical race theory from their children’s schools, after hearing about it on Fox News and in

or part-time employment.

The authors noted that these schools frequently prioritize the education of students of color in the recruiting and professional development of their professors.

The GAO research suggests that enhancing mentorship, conducting retention studies, and providing leadership opportunities are effective strategies to enhance the retention of faculty members who are of color. The survey also discovered that a positive campus environment affected teachers’ decision to remain at their schools.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Department of Education both handle allegations of discrimination at colleges and universities inefficiently, according to the GAO study. The Educa-

Hobbs said she feels she did everything she could to fight for custody of her daughter and that CPS did not do enough to try to reunite her family. “[CPS] didn’t help to reunite us at all, even though they said that their policy of reunification is at their core. I do not have that testimony with them.”

For other Black families in similar situations, Hobbs recommends they find a support system and “keep your head up.”

Cole Miska welcomes reader responses at cmiska@spokesman-recorder.com.

“We are working with system stakeholders to identify additional strategies to include in our upcoming federal Minnesota’s Children and Family Services Plan as we continue addressing this concern. Our recently established African American Child Well-being Unit is and has been working directly with communities to hear recommendations directly from those with lived experience and expertise as we seek equitable services in all areas of child welfare.”

town halls across the state.

(Unless they studied it in graduate school, most of those viewers had probably never heard of critical race theory until the past year. An active misinformation campaign from Fox News has redefined critical race theory—a scholarly legal framework for understanding systemic racism—as a weaponized catchphrase for anything related to race.)”

The discussions on Monday and Tuesday continue the historical process of including Ethnic Studies across Minnesota. However, pushback is expected throughout this legislative mandate, which many view as long overdue. Others say it is just education forced upon their children.

The MSR will report on the progress of the Ethnic Studies meetings.

Al Brown welcomes reader responses at abrown@spokemanrecorder.com.

Becky Z. Derbach’s excerpt is courtesy of the Sahan Journal.

tion Department’s regulation mandates that complaints be sent to the EEOC within 30 days; however, the average time it took to get a referral was more like 71 days.

“As we strive to create more equitable educational environments, it is incumbent upon federal agencies to prioritize the timely and thorough investigation of discrimination complaints,” the authors concluded. “Our nation’s colleges and universities must be bastions of diversity and inclusion, and addressing the underrepresentation of minority faculty is a critical step towards achieving that goal.”

Stacy Brown is an NNPA Newswire senior national correspondent.

Instead of going into effect on May 1, the new start date is slated for July 1, giving the council more time to consider possible amendments to the law and giving new rideshare providers more time to set up.

The MDE Work Group gathered on April 16 to create an implementation framework for ethnic studies to meet legislative requirements. Photo by Al Brown

Arts & Culture

Shakespeare’s History Plays return to the Guthrie

By Abdi Mohamed Associate Editor

The Guthrie Theater’s production of the History Plays: Richard II, Henry IV, and Henry V is well underway as they closed out their opening day marathon on Saturday, April 13 with all three shows in production. This run is a historic moment in itself given that the last time these plays were performed in a rotating repertory was over 30 years ago.

Actors Melissa Maxwell, William Sturdivant and Jasmine Bracey shared their insight in the production process and the unique undertaking they had in performing these three plays. Each of them portrays multiple characters throughout the plays, and all have a long relationship with Shakespearean works in their performing careers. Maxwell portrays the Duchess of Gloucester and Bishop of Carlise in “Richard II” and Earl of Westmorland in “Henry IV” and “Henry V.” Sturdivant portrays Henry Bolingbroke in “Richard II,” King Henry IV in “Henry IV,” and Gower in “Henry V.” Bracey, who is making her Guthrie debut, portrays the Duchess of York in “Richard II,” Thomas Percy and Earl of Worcester in “Henry IV,” and Montjoy and Alice in “Henry V.”

The cast had roughly 12 weeks to prepare for the series of plays with four weeks allotted to each production. Having worked as professional actors for several years, they’ve grown used to short turnarounds going from one play to the next, but found their current situation to be unique.

“I think it’s a behemoth,” Maxwell stated. “Much of my career has been doing rep, but this is sort of rep on steroids.”

Sturdivant saw the experience as having given the cast the ability to build stronger bonds with one another and solidify their performances.

“It allows us to kind of dive deeper into the relationships and plot points that hopefully are revealed when we are performing so that people can really follow the story, because it’s pretty massive,” he said.

Several members of the production are people of color, with some of them playing different genders than their own. The actors reflected on their experience on Shakespearean plays that

have historically been portrayed by white men, and the representative work on stage that goes into their performances.

“I was in an all-Black cast of Julius Caesar with an acting company [that] goes to the kind of more rural areas, places where professional theater isn’t highly available,” Sturdivant said. “At the end we had to talk back, and this kid in the back raises his hand and he says, ‘I understood it all.’”

When the play concluded, Sturdivant and the other actors realized the student’s implied question was about why he was taught that he couldn’t understand Shakespeare. Maxwell followed up by stating that the barriers put in place for Black students to not have access to

“I get to do on stage in really cool costumes under lights what psychiatrists & psychologists do in a sterile room with a couch and some chairs.”

Shakespeare or the belief that it is out of their understanding is mistaken.

“I’m also going to suggest that any teacher who has told a person of color that Shakespeare isn’t their language or that they wouldn’t necessarily understand it doesn’t understand Shakespeare and doesn’t understand Black culture,” she said.

Maxwell pointed to the centuries of poetry, rhythm and rhyme that come from the Black experience and translate directly to the words of Shakespeare. The cast underlined the importance of Shakespeare’s plays in understanding different uses of the English language that translate to other mediums. Bracey also shared her love of the malleable nature of Shakespeare’s works, which have been adapted and expanded for the purpose of reaching different audiences.

“It’s the experience of language, not necessarily the understanding of language,” she said of Shakespeare’s writing. “Just like you can watch an opera and it’s not even in English, but you’re still moved, there’s something there to the way that Shakespeare constructs the words that he constructs.”

The actors also spoke to their approach to Shakespeare’s works after having been in several productions. Bracey shared that in the past she had been relegated to comedies and certain roles as a Black woman, but the opportunity now to be in a history play along with portraying male characters has given her more room to explore her talents.

“What is pretty great though is exploring gender as well, because there’s a lot of these plays, especially because they’re history plays, [the characters] are majority male,” she said. “I play an uncle at one point. I’m playing predomi-

nantly male characters in one play.” Sturdivant, who has performed in dozens of Shakespeare productions around the country, has only had a handful of opportunities to play the lead. “One of the things I’m trying to do is to embed moments in one that will blossom in the other,” he said.

“Make this moment that is talked about in Henry IV about what happened in Richard II, make that moment pop in a way in Richard II, so that when people see them together they can see those little Easter eggs hidden in there.”

For Maxwell, each opportunity to portray a character on stage gives her the chance to delve into the human experience and bring about universal traits we all share. “I think the reason I am an actor is because I’m fascinated with the study of human psychology and why someone behaves the way they do,” she said. “I always say, I get to do on stage in really cool costumes under lights what psychiatrists and psychologists do in a sterile room with a couch and some chairs.”

The History Plays will run through May 25 with another marathon day showcasing all three productions on May 18. Tickets are available for purchase at the Guthrie Theater website.

Abdi Mohamed welcomes reader comments to amohamed@spokesman-recorder.com.

Melissa Maxwell makes her return to the Guthrie Theater after her performance in “Steel Magnolia.” Photos by Chris Juhn

The cast takes the stage during their last few days of rehearsal ahead of the marathon opening day of all three performances.

Opinion

The whitewashing of education — and how to stop it

By Ameshia Cross Word in Black

In a country growing more diverse by the day, we have the power to stop book bans and other attempts to erase Black history. No matter how much the right derides the word, the Black community needs to stay woke.

In recent years, we’ve witnessed a disturbing trend that threatens the foundations of our democratic society: the rise of book bans, curriculum censorship, and attacks on historical narratives in our educational institutions. These actions not only threaten the principles of academic freedom and undermine the integrity of our education system, but they also position America as a democracy on the brink of collapse.

Education is meant to be a journey of unlocking the unknown, expanding critical thinking, and advancing intellectual growth. Central to this journey is the freedom to engage with a diverse range of ideas, perspectives, and honest history.

When they censor books, sanitize curricula, or suppress truths like the harsh effects of slavery, Jim Crow, Reconstruction, and various civil rights movements, they are robbing students of the opportunity to grapple with complex issues of the past and design a future that embraces a more just society.

In a country growing more diverse by the day, we cannot let the right whitewash our history or dilute cultures that ignore the multicultural America and world our young people reside in. To do anything other than teach both historic and modern realities is erasure.

Education should encourage

dialogue, debate, and the exploration of diverse viewpoints, not shield them from various ideas, uncomfortable truths, or controversial topics. And yet, more than 4,200 books were targeted for censorship in 2023, a 65% increase from the previous year, according to the American Library Association (ALA) — with 47% of them centering the lived experiences of the LGBTQ+ community and people of color. This isn’t by mistake; it is a deliberate effort to propagate (cishetero) white supremacy. As a result, there has been a dangerous domino effect with the rollback of hard-earned civil rights progress.

culturally relevant to them.

Not only is it just, but it has positive effects: Research shows that children are more engaged and have better academic outcomes when they can see themselves in books, learning materials, and teachers. In other words, representation matters.

Similarly, curriculum censorship stifles academic inquiry and hampers educators’ ability to provide a comprehensive and well-rounded education. The right’s attacks on history are particularly insidious, as they seek to rewrite or erase the past to fit a memory of America that no longer represents who we are or where we are going.

Education should encourage dialogue, debate, and the exploration of diverse viewpoints, not shield them from various ideas, uncomfortable truths, or controversial topics.

The so-called anti-CRT and anti-DEI culture wars have coincided with the downfall of affirmative action in college admissions, the decimation of voting rights, along with amplified white grievance politics and claims of reverse racism. Schools have always been battlegrounds for civil rights. Today is no different. Black and Latino students are particularly impacted by the erasure of their history and culture. With the majority of students in the U.S. being students of color, they deserve a rich and rigorous education that is

History is not static; it is a dynamic and ongoing process of inquiry, interpretation and revision, and it should not be diluted or distorted. And whiteness should no longer be the default perspective.

Moreover, book bans, curriculum censorship, and attacks on history disproportionately impact marginalized communities and perpetuate systemic inequalities. By silencing voices and perspectives that challenge the status quo or highlight the experiences of marginalized groups, we perpetuate a narrative of exclusion and erasure. Our histories, our heroes, and our experiences cannot be erased.

The call to provide every student with a culturally relevant curriculum in a safe, inclusive environment has never been more pressing. Book bans and policies that restrict discussions of race, gender and identity not only stifle academic growth but also obscure students’ understanding of diverse cultures both in the U.S. and the world around them.

This article was originally published on Word in Black.

Ameshia Cross is the director of communications for the Education Trust. She is also a strategist for national, state, and local campaigns, a regular political commentator and contributor on MSN, NBC, BBC, SiriusXM, iHeart Radio, and more. She is also a former campaign and communications adviser for former President Barack Obama and a policy adviser for the National Urban League.

PERSPECTIVES FROM WITHIN

Why doesn’t Rush City prison have a dentist?

By Keith Crow

This month I visited Health Services in MCF Rush City to see a dentist. Instead I was seen by a “dental assistant.” I was informed “there has been no dentist at the facility in three years, but there is a dentist that comes twice a month from another facility and only does extractions.”

It is well established in Estelle v. Gamble and Erickson v Pardus that prisoners are entitled to medical care for serious medical needs. In fact, prisoners are deemed vulnerable adults and have no control over their own daily lives.

The dental assistant gave me a handful of salt packets and a printout of the process on how I should get my tribe to pay for my dental care. I would then need to pay for the transportation to a local dental office.

Needless to say I was utterly shocked. I have been incarcerated for nearly 20 years and with age I require dental care. I have reached out to my tribe to see if I do qualify for Indian Health Service, but I do not qualify per federal regulations as I do not live within my community’s borders. I could get free dental care if Minnesota Dept. of Corrections took me to Morton, Minnesota over 180 miles one way.

I have spoken to other prisoners experiencing similar dental care issues. Some have decaying teeth or abscesses and are in need of urgent care.

What if they do not qualify for any government dental care?

I do not know where to go from here. Will I have to get teeth pulled when I require a cavity filling?

The dental assistant elaborated how the job posting for a dentist at Rush City states, “Must travel” and that nobody would desire a job that requires extensive traveling. Moreover, why is there even a dental assistant here at Mcf- Rush City when she does nothing but gives out salt packets and a printout of the MN Dept of Corrections policy on outside medical care?

care costs and get my dental issues taken care of. Then file a federal 1983 lawsuit and recover my costs on the back end?

If the MCF Rush City dentist is essentially nonexistent, would the Minnesota Dept. of Corrections consider a possible transfer program where they transfer a prisoner to another prison for dental appointment, then return them back to prison next transferring day?

Perhaps I could request a transfer to another prison for my dental needs. It is clear there is something terribly

Perhaps I could request a transfer to another prison for my dental needs. It is clear there is something terribly wrong with this picture. Am I somehow stuck in the Twilight zone at Rush City?

Is this a scam on a massive level, paying a dental assistant a salary to do nothing? It could possibly be deeper than that. The MN Dept. of Corrections is allotted x amount of dollars to provide medical care to prisoners—who is accounting funds since they do not provide constitutionally required medical care?

What is the possible solution for my own conundrum? Get the funds for transportation/dental

wrong with this picture. Am I somehow stuck in the Twilight Zone at Rush City?

Keith Crow is an inmate at Rush City Prison.

Perspectives from Within features concerns from inmates in partnership with the Twin Cities Incarcerated Workers Organizing Committee, a union of prisoners, ex-prisoners, families, and communities working to transform the justice system in MN.

Embracing Black men’s voices

Rebuilding trust and unity in the Democratic Party

By Rep. Ron Reynolds (D-TX)

As a Black man deeply committed to the values of equality, justice and progress, I find myself reflecting on a concerning trend within our political landscape: the departure of Black men from the Democratic Party.

This phenomenon is not merely a statistical anomaly but represents a rupture in the relationship between the party and a significant segment of its base. As we navigate this pivotal moment in history, it is imperative that we explore the underlying causes of this departure and chart a path toward reconciliation and renewal.

The decision of many Black men to disengage from the Democratic Party is rooted in a complex interplay of historical disenchantment, unmet promises, and a sense of disillusionment with the political establishment. For too long, the voices and concerns of Black men have been marginalized and overlooked within the Democratic Party, leaving many feeling unheard and undervalued.

As a result, a growing number of Black men have begun to seek alternatives, searching for political homes where their perspectives are acknowledged and their interests are prioritized.

To address this rift and revitalize the Democratic Party’s relationship with Black men, we must embark on a journey of introspection and transformation. This journey begins with acknowledging and confronting our society’s systemic

injustices and inequalities. It requires a commitment to dismantling institutional barriers and creating opportunities for economic empowerment, educational advancement, and social mobility for the Black community.

Moreover, it necessitates a fundamental shift in how the Democratic Party engages with Black men. We must foster genuine connections and meaningful dialogue instead of token gestures and superficial outreach efforts. We must create spaces where Black men feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their insights and experiences to the political process.

It necessitates a fundamental shift in how the Democratic Party engages with Black men.

Central to this endeavor is recognizing that Black men are not a monolithic group but a diverse and multifaceted community with a wide range of perspectives and priorities.

As such, our approach must be intersectional, considering the intersecting identities and experiences that shape the lives of Black men, including race, gender, sexuality and class.

Furthermore, we must actively work to address the unique challenges and vulnerabilities faced by Black men, including the disproportionate impact of mass incarceration,

police violence, economic inequality, and lack of access to health care. By centering the needs and concerns of Black men in our policy agendas and advocacy efforts, we can begin to rebuild trust and unity within the Democratic Party.

The exodus of Black men from the Democratic Party represents a wake-up call for all committed to justice and equality. It is a reminder that political loyalty cannot be taken for granted but must be earned through genuine engagement, meaningful action, and tangible results. As we confront this challenge, let us seize the opportunity to create a more inclusive and equitable political landscape where every voice is heard and every individual is valued.

It is time for the Democratic Party to embrace Black men’s voices and reclaim its legacy as a champion of progress and social justice. It starts with prioritizing federal voting rights legislation, including the Freedom to Vote Act and John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, passing the George Floyd Policing Act, and raising the minimum wage to a livable wage.

The path forward may be challenging, but it is also filled with promise and potential. Let us rise to the occasion together and build a brighter future for all.

Ronald Reynolds is a Texas State Representative currently serving his seventh term in the House. He is the first African American State Representative in Fort Bend County since Reconstruction.

St. Paul plans school focused on Black history, culture

By Abdi

ers have teamed up with several community organization leaders and educators to develop a program to help close the educational disparities faced by Black children through centering culture at the heart of the curriculum.

Executive Chief of Administration and Operations

Jackie Turner is helping lead a committee of 17 local leaders and educators to create a program that will focus on the African American experience and weave history and culture throughout the curriculums taught in school.

“The ultimate goal is to look at the long-term success of African American students in the school district,” Turner said. The district plans to run the program through an elementary school that resides in a part of the city accessible to Black families. They will announce the location of the school this spring.

“We’ve looked at demographics of the district to determine if there are certain schools, sites and neighborhoods where a higher percentage of African American students live,” she said.

The committee looked at

other programs around the country that implemented the African American experience and culture in their curriculum for students. They’ve built some of their work upon the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom School model as one area of reference.

The committee members are made up of district staff, school board members, and leaders from organizations such as the local NAACP chapters, the African American Leadership Council, and the St. Paul Black Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance.

“Our work has taught us that we have to meet our children where they’re at.”

Once the committee reaches the point of finalizing the program scope, they will bring on parents whose children are in the district to weigh in on the curriculum. Many members of the committee have children in SPPS according to Turner, so much of their input comes with that in mind.

One member of the committee is Network for the Development of Children of African

Descent (NdCAD) Founder and Executive Director Gevonee

Ford, whose organization has focused on developing the literary skills of Black children here in the Twin Cities. “Culture, history and heritage is often the missing component in our education system, specifically when it comes to reaching and teaching and supporting Black children and families,” Ford said.

Some of the questions that came up for Ford during the committee meetings when they worked to develop the programming for students is the cultural backgrounds of teaching staff, how much of an inclusive approach they can have with the broader community, and how they can build upon it once the school is open.

Ford underlined his focus on making sure that children at this school were academically competitive in relation to their peers and allowing them to feel empowered through the coursework.

“Our work has taught us that we have to meet our children where they’re at. We have to shine the light on their strengths, which allows the children then to build on their strengths to fill in any academic gaps that they have,” he said.

He hopes that with the

confidence and self-efficacy instilled in students, they’ll work to not just meet the educational standards set, but exceed them.

While the curriculum in the school will be focused on implementing African American culture in every lesson, there will be no difference in academic standards according to Turner. “How it gets implemented will be the difference,” Turner

explained. The pedagogy and what is used to teach the children and the professional development that’s used for this group of teachers would look different at this particular program than at a different school.”

As an example, Turner stated that students in a science class would conduct experiments and learn the standardized information that’s

required of them, but there would also be a lesson on a relevant African American scientist and the contributions he or she made to the field they’re covering. Historical lessons would be taught primarily through the writings of African American historians.

In looking to expand the interest and engagement from students through this program, she pointed to the success of the Freedom School at SPPS.

With a school of roughly 500 students, Turner said that there has been a major change in behavior with the introduction of culturally relevant lessons.

“Negative behaviors decrease. You see engagement heightened, and when educators are taught well on how to use this curriculum in their school or in their classroom, their excitement goes up because they begin to see the connection between the student and the learning,” she explained.

Turner emphasized that the school in question would be a magnet school, meaning no student would have to attend, but rather parents can choose to enroll their children.

Abdi Mohamed welcomes reader comments to amohamed@ spokesman-recorder.com.

New Biden student loan relief targets racial disparities

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire

Despite Republican opposition and a previous rejection by the U.S. Supreme Court, the Biden-Harris administration is implementing yet another round of student loan forgiveness measures.

President Joe Biden has announced comprehensive plans to provide substantial relief to borrowers, particularly those from marginalized communities disproportionately burdened by debt. The proposed measures, announced on Monday, April 8, would represent a significant step towards making higher education more accessible and equitable for millions of Americans.

loans to afford a college education, often find themselves saddled with higher levels of debt compared to their white counterparts. According to a White House Fact Sheet, 20 years after enrolling in college, the typical Black borrower from the 1995–96 school year still owed a staggering 95% of their original debt.

Under the new plans, the

Since taking office, the BidenHarris administration has prioritized reforming the federal student loan program, focusing on easing borrowers’ financial burdens. The administration has already approved debt cancellation for four million borrowers, offering them much-needed breathing room and economic mobility.

White House officials say that the newly unveiled plans build upon these efforts and are expected to provide relief to over 30 million borrowers, combined with previous actions taken by the administration. One of the central aims of the proposals is to address the disproportionate debt burden borne by communities of color, mainly Black and Latino borrowers.

Statistics reveal stark racial disparities within the student loan system. Black and Latino borrowers, who are more likely to take on student

Black and Latino borrowers, who are more likely to take on student loans to afford a college education, often find themselves saddled with higher levels of debt compared to their white counterparts.

administration wants to extend relief to borrowers fac-

ing various financial challenges, including those who owe more than their initial loan amount due to accrued interest, individuals eligible for loan forgiveness who have yet to apply, and borrowers experiencing hardship in repayment. Additionally, the proposals would offer debt cancellation for borrowers who entered repayment decades ago and assist those enrolled in low-financial-value programs. Community college borrowers, who represent a significant portion of the student population, would also benefit from the administration’s initiatives. The Biden-Harris administration’s SAVE Plan, which aims to make community college more affordable, projects that 85% of community college borrowers could be debt-free within 10 years. However, Latino students comprise a substantial proportion of community college enrollees and need help completing their degrees and

repaying loans. White House officials said, overall, the administration’s plans signal a concerted effort to tackle the student loan crisis and address systemic inequalities within the higher education system. They said the proposals aim to foster greater economic opportunity and advancement for all Americans by providing targeted relief to communities disproportionately affected by student debt.

“These historic steps reflect President Biden’s determination that we cannot allow student debt to leave students worse off than before they went to college,” U.S. Undersecretary of Education James Kvaal said in a statement.

Kvaal added that Biden had directed the department “to complete these programs as quickly as possible, and we are going to do just that.”

Stacy M. Brown is the NNPA Newswire senior national correspondent.

Saint Paul Public School leaders are looking to open a new magnet school aimed at reducing educational disparities faced by Black children. Photo by Katerina Holmes

White House officials say that the newly unveiled plans build upon these efforts and are expected to provide relief to over 30 million borrowers, combined with previous actions taken by the administration. Photo by Joshua Mcknight

Employment & Legals

VIEW

Continued from page 10

of women’s basketball has always been amazing.”

“We’re not hating on Caitlin,” stressed the professor. “But what we’re trying to get the media to see is [that] you’re now creating a narrative that has positioned Caitlin as the Great White Hope, and I would argue that’s unfair upon her.

“It’s at the expense of Black women’s equality,” concluded Keaton.

Sista anchors

During its Women’s Final Four telecasts, ESPN had five sistahs on its anchor desk.

“For me to be myself, and to have so much fun…it was special,” Andraya Carter, one of the anchors, told reporters last week during a Zoom call that included the MSR. “It was Carolyn Peck leading the way. Elle Duncan and Chihey. I looked to my right and to my left… I was honored every show to be up there.”

Charles Hallman

HOCKEY

Continued from page 10

being more diverse for fans and players, Metcalf said, “It’s a long game.” A Minnesota Wild arena worker told us that he saw fewer than 10 Blacks in attendance at the three games last weekend.

SOE

Continued from page 10

Their male counterparts a day later defeated Nova Southeastern University 8885, and Mankato became the first school to win both the men’s and women’s Division II championships in the same year since Central Missouri in 1984.

“Our players were definitely feeding off each other,” observed Morton. “They hung out [together] all the time, they love each other, just feeding off each other’s energy.”

Also not lost on her is the fact that she is among the few Black HC or assistants who were on championship teams this year. Shaheen Holloway’s Seton Hall men’s team won the NIT, its first title since 1953. And Dawn

Staley became the winningest Black coach on April 7 with her third national WBB title.

“I’ve been talking about her,” said Morton of Staley. “I’ve been able to really appreciate that more and understand what that means. Not only for myself but for the ones that are in my position and the younger generation, because the same way I look at Dawn and see someone who looks like me getting it done and doing it with character and faith, it brings a lot of encouragement for me as well.

“I’m just trying to understand the gravity of what it means to do something like” winning a national championship.”

Charles Hallman welcomes reader comments at challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

PREP

Continued from page 10

clutch play proved to be valuable during South’s run. Walker was averaging 12.1 points and 9.5 rebounds per game before breaking his leg and being lost for the season during a non-conference game against St. Paul Harding in February. His injury left a void filled amicably by the outstanding play of Stewart-Scott, Fields and Brown.

Highlights and accomplishments

coach after Craig LeSuer resigned in 1997, and Hallman, who joined the Tigers as an assistant in 1995, were proud of what the team accomplished this season, as their goal of an outstanding season seemed unreachable at times. LeSuer led South to their last state tournament appearance during his first season in 1992. “Things didn’t look so good after we lost Romero for the season, Hyser said. “There was the season-ending injury, and then we lost to Washburn our next game. In the end it made the team stronger.

“We really didn’t know how the players would respond after the injury,” Hallman added. “After Romero broke his leg, the players didn’t want to continue, so we stopped playing the game [against St. Paul Harding]. But the players rallied around him.”

“We all know that hockey has never been as diverse as perhaps we would all like it to be,” he admitted.

After the press conference, Metcalf further explained to the MSR, “It’s not like a light switch where we can flip the switch and you just fixed everything.”

The Hockey East leader pointed out that there have been several initiatives to introduce hockey to Blacks and other underserved communities. Metcalf recalled

“The intent is to try to grow some awareness and bring the game to places it hasn’t been,” added Metcalf, “trying to work with the NHL folks in communities where the NHL and college hockey both exist.

a program at the University of New Hampshire where Blacks were taken to a hockey game, some of them for the first time ever.

“We’ve tried to do an initiative with the [Boston] Bruins where we tried to get some of the inner-city neighborhoods, get them some equipment, get them on the ice,” Metcalf said. He also suggested a similar program in areas that have both an NHL team and a college team in bringing college players to do clinics and create more

interest in hockey.

“That’s a conversation that’s ongoing,” said Metcalf. Surmised Warren, a sixthround pick by Minnesota in the 2019 NHL draft, “I just hope in the future I see 10 people that look like me on the ice, because that’d be special. “I think hockey should be for everyone. It’s such a great sport, and I’m just blessed to be able to play.”

Charles Hallman welcomes reader comments at challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

Memorable moments from the season include a two-game sweep of crosstown conference rival North (79-76 at North, January 8, and 69-66 at South, February 7), a 62-61 victory over St. Thomas Academy in the Class 3A Section 3 championship game, and a 77-73 Class 3A state consolation victory over Chisago Lakes. Davis, Weh, Underwood and Walker were named to the all-conference team. Davis also made the all-tournament team.

Final words from the coaches Hyser, who became head

And in doing so, the Minneapolis South boys basketball team had a season that will live in the hearts of students, staff, alumni and community for years to come.

Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald welcomes reader comments at mcdeezy05@gmail.com.

welcomes reader comments at challman@ spokesman-recorder.com.

Andraya Carter Photo by Charles Hallman

Sports

merican sports media historically can’t function without a Great White Hope (GWH) for them to promote for fans. Iowa’s Caitlin Clark currently is their flavor of the month.

Media quest for Great White Hope diminishes South Carolina’s achievement

“To say that some in America aren’t desperate to have a White American-born superstar would be insincere,” wrote John Celestrand in “Word In Black” after last week’s South Carolina-Iowa WBB national title game. “This game was a dream matchup,” he added—a mostly all-Black team (South Carolina) led by a Black coach (Dawn Staley) against a virtually all-White Iowa team with the senior Clark, whose team relies on her a lot for threepoint shooting. Black vs white, an obvious storyline that too many sports media and fans love to push.

Although Staley’s team won—her third national championship in seven years—it was with a squad that lost all five starters from a year ago to graduation but went unbeaten from wire to wire this season. Yet the spotlight stayed on Clark, who played on a runners-up team for the second consecutive year.

“There’s so many editorial stories in an undefeated championship basketball team, but [you] have the emphasis and

focus be on the star player of the losing team,” said journalist Daric L. Cottingham on her “I Know That’s Right” podcast. Clark didn’t make herself America’s latest GWH, but America’s mainstream media crowned her as such.

“Unless you were a basketball enthusiast, you really didn’t know that Dawn Staley and South Carolina went undefeated,” observed University of Louisville Assistant Professor Dr. Akjamai Keaton during an MSR phone interview last week. She studies how race and gender intersects in many areas, including business, higher education and sports.

“Black fans are keenly aware of the racial dynamics at play.”

In her April 8 commentary for Bloomberg, Keaton pointed out, “Viewing sports

through a race-, gender-, or class-neutral lens disregards how competition can magnify social inequity.”

Although South Carolina was favored to win the game, it was Clark who was put ahead of her team in terms of pregame buildup. This is mainly because the Gamecocks are this century’s Georgetown, the mostly all-Black team led by a Black coach (the late John Thompson) to national prominence during the 1980s, which included a national title and

Black coach shares pride in Mankato’s championship season

innesota State

Mankato this season is the only Minnesota college or university to win national basketball championships. The Mavericks women’s and men’s teams won their respective NCAA Division II championships.

Janay Morton is the school’s only Black assistant basketball coach. The Brooklyn Park native just finished her third season with the MSU Mankato women’s basketball team. We caught up with Morton last week after her time in Cleveland—the annual coaches convention is also held at the site of the Final Four.

three national game appearances in four years.

The Hoyas men then and the women Gamecocks today were lovingly promoted as bad guys by mainstream media mainly because they were allBlack teams. This is because sports media for the most part has the power to push any narrative they so choose. And the GWH narrative fits so neatly in their reporting.

A recent commentary in “The Root” summed this up: “Black fans are keenly aware

of the racial dynamics at play. They recognize the animus that comes with the pursuit of Black excellence” as it relates to South Carolina’s successful quest for a national title. “Black Americans root for quarterbacks, coaches and players who look like them,” it concluded.

“The media is spinning like Caitlin Clark has saved women’s basketball or put women’s basketball on the map,” continued Keaton. “But the product

■ See VIEW on page 9

A great basketball season for South High

inneapolis South Boys Basketball Coach Joe Hyser and Assistant Charles Hallman, who have both led the Tigers since 1997, saw a 32-year state tournament drought broken last month.

Many contributors to South’s success

Davis led South in scoring averaging 19.4 points per game with his outside shooting and penetration. Weh used his shooting and ball handling to be the ultimate backcourt mate to average 17.1 points per game.

Underwood was a sharpshooter from three-point range for the Tigers, averaging 9.4 points per game. StewartScott was a force inside with timely baskets while finishing with a 6.8 rebound per game average and 38 blocked shots.

they love each other, just feeding off each other’s energy.”

“It felt pretty great,” admitted Morton, who began coaching in 2019 at the University of Jamestown and was hired at Mankato in 2021. “I did receive a lot of love from other coaches that were down there, and coaches who knew me who had coached against me.” When asked, Morton said she and the Mavericks coaching staff all felt the team had winning potential: “We felt we had a championship team this year, not only about the (Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference) championship, but a nationally ranked championship team.

“We talked about focusing… and what our standard was. So all year long we focused on what our standard was. Culture was the number-one thing, so we had to make sure that whatever culture we were

creating was going to be one that would ultimately create an amazing experience in a family environment, but we also do a championship as well,” she stressed. MSU Mankato defeated Texas Women’s University 8979 March 30, the program’s second-ever national title.

Hockey diversity remains elusive

ichigan’s Marshall Warren was the only Black player at this year’s Frozen Four played last week in St. Paul. He is one of five Black college hockey players the MSR interviewed during this season.

“Obviously it’s not where it should be,” admitted Warren on hockey’s diversity. The sixfoot defenseman from Lau-

rel Hollow, New York played four seasons at Boston College, then his graduate year in Ann Arbor. He made the AllTournament team and scored

a goal in the Wolverines’ win over Michigan State to advance to the Frozen Four for an NCAA record 28th time.

“It’s been a really good year and just couldn’t get it to win,” noted Warren after Michigan’s 4-0 defeat to Boston College in last Thursday’s NCAA semifinals. “I’m so proud of this group because we’ve been through a lot.

“Michigan’s a special place, and it was a no-brainer when I got the opportunity to go here,” he pointed out. “I’m just so thankful and blessed.”

Last Friday at the Frozen Four, a “State of the Game” press conference was held.

The four panelists—UMD

Head Coach Scott Sandelin; NCAA Rules Committee Chair

Eric Martinson; Jeff Schulman, NCAA DI Hockey Committee chair and University of Vermont AD; and Hockey East Commissioner Steve Metcalf.

The panel all agreed with Martinson that hockey “is in a great place.” But when pressed by the MSR on college hockey

■

Led by the outstanding play of seniors Poet Davis (6’0” guard), Jumarion Weh (6’0” guard), James Underwood (6’0” guard), Jamari Stewart-Scott (6’2” forward), Kevaughn Fields (6’1” forward), Maurice Hargrow (6’0” guard), Eugene Brown (6’2” forward), and Romero Walker (6’8” center), South had one of its best seasons, capturing their first section title (Class 3A Section 3), qualifying for its first state tournament (Class 3A) appearance since 1992, while finishing with a 22-7 record. A far cry from their 6-20 mark in 2023.

“There was the season-ending injury, and then we lost to Washburn our next game. In the end it made the team stronger.”

Fields averaged 11.1 points per game while providing clutch play on the offensive and defensive end. Hargrow’s outstanding defense (24 steals) and steady offensive play contributed to South’s successful season.

Brown’s 77 rebounds and

By Charles Hallman

Sports Columnist

“Our players hung out together all the time,

Dr. Ajhanai Keaton Courtesy of X

Women’s Final Four telecasts anchors (l-r) Elle Duncan, Andraya Carter, Chiney Ogwumike, Carolyn Peck and Aliyah Boston Courtesy of ESPN X

MSU Mavericks women’s basketball championship team, with Janay Morton on the far left in the front row Courtesy of X

Minneapolis South boys basketball coach Joe Hyser (arms folded) looks on as Tigers guard Poet Davis runs the offense during the Class 3A state tournament.

Photo by Dr. Mitchell Palmer McDonald

Panelists at the Frozen Four “State of the Game” press conference (l-r) Scott Sandelin, Eric Martinson, Steve Metcalf, Jeff Schulman Photos by Charles Hallman

Michigan defenseman Marshall Warren