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.

ChangeMakers: David Glass challenges appropriation of Native imagery, culture in sports
David Glass, 69, has been fighting for the dignity and rights of Indigenous communities for decades. He has been working with the National Coalition Against Racism in Sports and Media for more than 30 years to lobby sports teams to drop racist and offensive names and to stop using depictions of Indigenous people as mascots.
ChangeMakers: Nicole Matthews, ending sexual violence is ‘part of my purpose’
Nicole Matthews, 48, is the executive director of the Minnesota Indian Women’s Sexual Assault Coalition, a statewide tribal coalition working to end sexual violence against Indigenous women and children. Matthews said many of her female relatives have experienced domestic violence and sexual assault. She experienced sexual violence. And so advocating for sexual assault victims in the Native American community is personal.
ChangeMakers: Indigenous Minnesotans making history
Native American Heritage Month celebrates and honors the culture and heritage of Native Americans through time. This November, MPR News introduces you to Indigenous Minnesotans who are making history right now across the state. Each will discuss what being Indigenous in Minnesota means to them, a bit about their background and their hopes for the future.
ChangeMakers: Valerie and Allysza Castile, carrying on Philando's spirit
Valerie, 62, and Allysza Castile, 26, are the mother and sister of Philando Castile. Since her son's death, Valerie has been an advocate for police and criminal justice reform and founded the Philando Castile Relief Foundation.
ChangeMakers: Dr. LaPrincess Brewer, building 'a culture of health' for the underserved
Dr. LaPrincess Brewer, 38, is a preventive cardiologist in the department of cardiovascular medicine at Mayo Clinic, and an assistant professor at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine.
ChangeMakers: Blackout Improv, breaking barriers and busting guts
For the last three years, Blackout Improv has been using comedy to tackle tough issues. They are the state's only black improv group with the mission of changing the face of comedy.