Fast food restaurants have become a pervasive presence in Black urban neighborhoods due to targeted marketing and high-density placement, contributing to economic exploitation and health disparities.
Books
A space for local and national arts and entertainment stories, with an emphasis on stories pertaining to African and African Americans.
New author finds joy sharing her story
Twyla Martin held a book launch for her memoir “The Power of a Transformed Woman: Turning My Trauma into Triumph” which included a panel discussion on trauma and recovery, and she credits the recovery community for her healing process.
Five must-read horror books by Black women
Black women in horror are using the genre to expose injustice and share their stories, with books by Black women in horror authors providing an opportunity to learn about overlooked histories and the experiences of others.
Facing the lasting legacy of the transatlantic slave trade
Dr. Benjamin Chavis Jr. and Stacy M. Brown have collaborated on the groundbreaking book “The Transatlantic Slave Trade: Overcoming the 500-Year Legacy” to explore the brutal legacy of the transatlantic slave trade and its ongoing impact on African people throughout the world.
‘Red Stained’: new book explores Hilda Simms’ story of resilience and activism
Jokeda JoJo Bell has written a new book about Hilda Simms, a Black actress and Minneapolis native who rose to fame in the post-WWII era but was later blacklisted due to accusations of un-Americanism and communist sympathies.
New book explores the life, music of local legend Cornbread Harris
Andrea Swensson’s new book, ‘Deeper Blues: The Life, Songs, and Salvation of Cornbread Harris,’ tells the story of 97-year-old living legend James Samuel Harris, Jr.
Summer 2024 promises diverse and captivating reads from African-American authors
This summer, readers can enjoy a variety of compelling fictional stories featuring Black ballerinas, scientists, detectives, teachers, and more.
Veteran journalist Michele Norris to talk race, identity at upcoming Westminster Forum
Michele Norris, award-winning journalist and founder of The Race Card Project, will appear at the Westminster Town Hall on Feb. 1 for an in-depth conversation about her latest book.
Journey of Louis Hunter: From rioting charges to owning a plant-based restaurant and a film
Louis Hunter, who was charged with rioting after the police killing of his cousin, Philando Castile, has overcome the charges and now owns a restaurant and has a film inspired by his life story.
Actress Kerry Washington is vulnerable and honest in new memoir
Kerry Washington’s memoir, ‘Thicker Than Water’, is a love letter to her parents and a recounting of her life as an actress, mother, and wife.
Phyllis Braxton’s new book of ‘authentic wisdom’
Phyllis Braxton, diversity equity inclusion specialist, and founder and CEO of Pink Consulting LLC, released her first book in March.
‘Will You Love Me Tomorrow’ gives girl groups of ‘50s and ‘60s their due
‘I hope that now our culture shows a little more respect and has space for the women in this book.’
Banned books by Black authors
One of the best ways to neutralize the impact of book banning is by reading these books and keeping the stories they tell alive.
20 Hot Summer Reads
Here are our picks of some of the best books out this season.
New book chronicles one family’s journey during Tulsa Race Massacre
‘Diving into what happened in Tulsa, I learned so much about the mechanics of how nationwide Black communities were decimated by federal and state policy.’
Teach for America welcomes influential author of ‘Caste’ to Twin Cities
Isabel Wilkerson’s keynote lecture, entitled “Exposing America’s Invisible Scaffolding,” will be presented by Teach for America Twin Cities and the Minneapolis Foundation on April 28.
Activist’s first book inspires young minds to continue march for justice
Like Joy, the character in the book, young Black and Brown kids can see themselves, their family, and their community on each beautifully illustrated page.
Author found healing in sharing traumatic experience
In 2022, her years of writing resulted in her first book ‘November.’
Dr. Verna inspires with new book ‘Power Lessons for Life’
‘People will want more power messages, more everyday examples they can use in their lives.’
Local author shares lessons about grief in children’s book
Lehman Riley’s ‘Losing Lizzy’ imparts to children the tips and tools to process and overcome grief.
