Social Issues

Obama on George Floyd's death and the 'maddening' normalcy of racism
Former President Barack Obama has responded to the Minneapolis death that has set off protests and drawn national attention, including President Trump's. Read his full statement.
Looted and smoldering, ‘Lake Street, the great street’ braces for more
As anger over the death of George Floyd led to violence and looting, a commercial corridor known for its mix of mom-and-pop businesses starts to pick up the pieces. 
St. Louis County commissioners delay vote — again — on refugee resettlement
The northeastern Minnesota county tabled a vote in January on whether to consent to refugee resettlement. Despite hours of passionate debate Tuesday, the board voted again to delay the decision until federal courts weigh in on the issue.
Unemployment claims up — way up — among Asian Minnesotans
At a time when Asian Americans are reporting experiences with bigoted abuse because of COVID-19, they’re also reporting a surge in unemployment. The trend has created uncertainty about how Asian-owned businesses will survive. 
To figure out who's a citizen, Trump administration is using these records
After failing to get the now-blocked citizenship question onto 2020 census forms, the Trump administration is turning to IRS tax forms, Medicaid data and Interior Department law enforcement records.
Interest in foster care parenting on the rise, even as fewer kids enter the system
State officials say the number of children entering foster care is down significantly since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, they say more Minnesotans are inquiring about becoming foster parents.