Minnesota History and Heritage - Spring and Summer 2019
For Genealogy Research: Programs to be delivered by local genealogists to encourage exploration of one's history and cultural heritage.
Mapping Prejudice art exhibit: The exhibit, Displaced, will consist of 4 large panels related to the research of the Mapping Prejudice Project, a cutting-edge research project out of the University of Minnesota which documents, maps, and presents data on restrictive covenants in Hennepin County. One section of the exhibit will be devoted to Linden Hills specific content, the rest of the exhibit will more generally relate to citywide, statewide, and national trends in racial housing discrimination.
Somali Cultural Festival: The event will feature live performances, including Somali history games, Somali Museum dancers, poetry and open mic readings, Dhaanto singers, and authors from the Somali community.
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For Genealogy Research: Patrons will learn about tools that will assist them in researching family histories. Patrons will gain interest in researching family histories.
Mapping Prejudice art exhibit: Participants will reflect on the history of racial housing discrimination in the Linden Hills neighborhood. Participants will examine the connections between the legacy of racial housing discrimination and current racial wealth gaps. Participants will share with others how the history & structure of racial disparities impacts their community today.
Somali Cultural Festival: Patrons learn something new about Somali culture, history, or language OR more about their own family's background. Patrons express a positive connection with Somali culture. Patrons recognize Franklin Library as a welcoming community gathering space.
Genealogy Research: 100% learned about tools to assist with researching family histories. 96% rated program as excellent. Patron comments included: "I'm encouraged to learn more and do more research" and "fascinating presentation."
Mapping Prejudice Art Exhibit: Participants reflected on the history of racial housing discrimination the Linden Hills neighborhood. Participant comments include: "Forthright and honest history such as this enlightens us all as it uncovers the root causes of persistent wealth disparities. Thanks" and "Thank you for finally telling our story. We are black and Linden Hills and it's exhausting" and "A part of our history that was never taught - long overdue to face our racism" and "Thank you for sharing this story! And for including Dakota heritage, too."
Somali Cultural Festival: 100% learned something new about Somali culture or their own cultural background. 96% felt a positive connection with Somali culture. 94% felt the library was a welcoming community gathering space.
Cathi Weber; John Vanek; Mapping Prejudice Project at the University of Minnesota; Shirleen Hoffman; Somali Museum