Tish Jones discovered the power of hip-hop storytelling as a child and has spent decades using poetry and spoken word to educate and uplift young people. As founder of TruArtSpeaks in St. Paul, she blends art, culture, and social justice.
Damenica Ellis
Posted inTheater
New play ‘Abuelita’ centers culture, community at Capri Theater
The play Abuelita premieres at the Capri Theater in North Minneapolis, telling a story about culture, family and the women who support communities.
Posted inOn the Radar
On the Radar Podcast: Jamela Pettiford Uses Music to Build Confidence and Community
Singer and educator Jamela Pettiford discusses music, mentorship and her Rondo roots on the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder’s On the Radar podcast.
Posted inBlack Business Spotlight
A self-care ritual grows into a mother-daughter candle and wellness business
Black Business Spotlight: Kobi Co. Minneapolis grew from a high school idea into a thriving candle and wellness business created by a mother-daughter team.
Posted inWomen’s History Month
Nellie Stone Johnson’s vision lives on through unions, professors and scholarships
The Nellie Stone Johnson legacy continues in Minnesota through labor activism, education advocacy and scholarships supporting future leaders.
Posted inSister Spokesman
“Her Story” encourages Black women to write and publish their stories
The Her Story Sister Spokesman event brought women together at Hallie Q. Brown Community Center to celebrate African American authors and storytelling.
Posted inFinance
Lynn Crump-Caine named Thrivent Board Chair, aims to inspire inclusive leadership
Lynn Crump-Caine has been named board chair of Thrivent, bringing decades of leadership experience and advocating for greater diversity in corporate governance.
Posted inOn the Radar
Dancer creates space to move, belong and grow, with plans for a future studio
Imani Moore turned her lifelong passion for dance into Locomotive Dance Crew, a Twin Cities group focused on community, inclusion and performance.
Posted inOn the Radar
On the Radar Podcast Episode 2 Features Poet and Emcee Se’Anna Johnson
South Minneapolis poet and emcee Se’Anna Johnson is featured on Episode 2 of the Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder’s On the Radar podcast.
Posted inLocal & State
From slavery to ICE: How money shapes Minnesota’s moral battles
Eliza Winston’s 1860 freedom case reveals how slavery in Minnesota was sustained by economic interests, with parallels to modern deportation enforcement debates today.
Posted inBlack History
The African American legacy of South Minneapolis
South Minneapolis Black community history reveals how Great Migration families built institutions and resilience amid segregation and economic shifts.
Posted inOn the Radar
Through Song and Stage, Minnesota singer builds confidence, courage and legacy
Jamela Pettiford, inspired by gospel legend Mahalia Jackson, has spent her life performing, teaching, and empowering others through music. From stage performances to community programs in Saint Paul, she blends neo-soul, gospel, and classical trap to inspire resilience and confidence in youth and the Black community.
Posted inBlack History
The history of Arthur and Edith Lee: Segregation then, outsiders now
Racial covenants enacted in early 20th-century Minnesota created segregated neighborhoods and lasting barriers for Black residents. Today, Mapping Prejudice and the Just Deed Coalition are uncovering these histories and helping communities address ongoing inequities.
Posted inMSR In the News
City of Minnetonka Visits Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder for Community Tour
Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder newsroom tours offer organizations an inside look at Black press history, multimedia storytelling and community-centered journalism.
Posted inOn the Radar
Poet transforms personal healing into rhythm and poetry for the community
South Minneapolis poet and emcee Se’Anna Johnson is using hip-hop, storytelling and community engagement to foster healing, literacy and empowerment.
Posted inLocal & State
Rising costs hit inmates, families priced out of phone calls at county jails
Rising Minnesota jail phone call costs are forcing families to limit communication with incarcerated loved ones, raising concerns about mental health, fairness, and rehabilitation.
Posted inMusic
From plastic sax to Hall of Fame
Walter Chancellor Jr Iowa Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction recognizes 62 years of dedication to the saxophone, from Des Moines beginnings to a lasting Minneapolis music legacy.
Posted inBlack Business Spotlight
Inner Peace
Inner Peace Fragrance Minneapolis began in Opal Robinson’s home kitchen, where she mixed personal care products for herself. Today, her handcrafted body oils, incense, soaps, and candles are sold at Midtown Global Market, offering customers sustainable ingredients, long-lasting scents, and a space centered on warmth and respect.
Posted inSister Spokesman
Sister Spokesman brings community together to address domestic violence
Black community domestic violence awareness took center stage at Sister Spokesman’s February event focused on healthy relationships and healing.
Posted inArts + Culture
Ralph Remington launches “Penetrating Whiteness,” a personal and political examination of white supremacy
Ralph Remington never intended to write a book, but inspiration from James Baldwin led him to compile years of essays into Penetrating Whiteness: How White Supremacy Built America. During a Twin Cities book launch, Remington shared powerful reflections on race, empathy and navigating today’s political moment.