
Nearly 40 community members gathered for a holiday do-over at the Minneapolis Police Fourth Precinct station.
The gathering followed an uproar over a photo of the station’s Christmas tree “decorations,” which consisted of menthol cigarettes, malt liquor cans, and junk food. The photo went viral and community members demanded a change in leadership at the precinct.
SEE ALSO: Change in leadership follows Fourth Precinct Christmas tree uproar
On Friday, Dec. 7, community leaders sipped on hot cocoa and hot cider as they decorated a new donated tree outside of the station filled with ornaments representing what the North Minneapolis community really looks like to them.
One community member added a military patch, and another brought a photo of Travis Matthew Jordan who was shot and killed by police in November.
A picture of Travis Matthew Jordan
At the end of the event, community members hoisted six-year-old Blessing Caldwell to place the star at the top of the tree. Unable to reach the top, Lt. Tim Mattsson and an officer brought a ladder to put on the finishing touch.
Arrow through below for more photos by Chris Juhn.

Support Black local news
Help amplify Black voices by donating to the MSR. Your contribution enables critical coverage of issues affecting the community and empowers authentic storytelling.