Rebuilding, reopening and returning to Minneapolis

After the killing of George Floyd, people took to the streets. Protests gave way to civil unrest, and many buildings — including small, minority- and immigrant-owned businesses and organizations — were left damaged or destroyed.

More than 1,500 buildings in Minneapolis and St. Paul suffered damage during the days of looting and burning, according to a Star Tribune analysis.

Community members have joined forces to start the long rebuilding process. But will customers return to the businesses that made Lake Street in Minneapolis a vibrant business district?

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with community stakeholders about rebuilding, reopening and returning to Minneapolis.

Guests:

• Allison Sharkey is executive director of the Lake Street Council and a member of the newly established Minneapolis Forward: Community Now Coalition.

• Kelly Drummer is president of MIGIZI, a nonprofit organization that trains Native youth in media skills. MIGIZI’s building was totaled during the uprising.

• David Wellington is a commercial real estate developer. Some of his company’s Lake Street properties were damaged and destroyed.

• Faatemah is the owner of the Suitespot Salonspa in Minneapolis’ Lyn-Lake area who is spearheading a neighborhood beautification project.

Use the audio player above to listen to the program.

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