ChangeMakers

A logo that reads changemakers

ChangeMakers is a series from MPR News showcasing Minnesotans from diverse, often underrepresented backgrounds who are making an impact. Whether they’re making history or making a difference for just one person, these individuals are leaders building new futures for their communities. Scroll down to meet our ChangeMakers.

For 50 years, Hmong immigrants and their children have shaped Minnesota culture
In honor of 50 years of Hmong refugee resettlement and immigration to Minnesota, MPR News will feature Hmong Minnesotans in a variety of careers through the month of May as part of our “ChangeMakers” series. This series highlights Minnesotans from diverse and often underrepresented backgrounds who are making an impact. 
Patisserie owner Marc Heu found a home in Minnesota’s Hmong community
Unlike many Hmong families who sought refuge in the United States after the Vietnam War, Marc Heu’s family located to French Guiana in South America. He says growing up in French Guiana was difficult for him at times. 
10 disability advocates from Minnesota fighting for equity
In celebration of Disability Pride Month in July, MPR News highlighted people throughout the month with disabilities who are working to make Minnesota more inclusive and accessible for everyone. From a Minneapolis school board member to a Paralympian, we aimed to capture a wide range of people with a diversity of experiences.
John Lee Clark is pioneering an emerging language — and culture
In a culture where people operate at a distance from each other and their surroundings, John Lee Clark advocates for Protactile, a set of practices and language based entirely on touch and designed by DeafBlind people.
Four-time Paralympian Chuck Aoki strives to make athletes with disabilities more visible
Minneapolis-native Chuck Aoki will be heading to Paris next month for the Paralympics to compete in wheelchair rugby. He already has a two silver medals and a bronze, and this year he’ll be going for the gold.
Joyner Emerick focuses on the future for Minnesota’s disabled students
Young people bring Joyner Emerick hope for the future, which is why they serve on the Minneapolis Board of Education. When they were elected in 2023, Emerick became the city’s first openly transgender and openly autistic school board member and has used that platform to advocate for disabled students at both the local and state levels.
Brittanie Hernandez-Wilson leads the conversation on ableism and intersectionality
Brittanie Hernandez-Wilson is equity and justice director for The Arc Minnesota, an organization advocating for the rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.