Volume 8 • Issue 3 www.threesixtyjournalism.org April 2018

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Minnesota Teens Report Stories & Issues That Matter

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...the Twin Cities’ new mayors St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter III, Page 23 Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, Page 24 CHANGEMAKERS 2.0 Inspiring positive change in the Twin Cities and beyond, Page 19

ALSO INSIDE Powerful college essays, Page 15 Innocence Project of Minnesota frees man from behind bars, Page 11 Apply today for ThreeSixty Journalism summer camp, Page 5 Real Students. Real Stories.

VOLUME 8 • ISSUE 3 Journalism

Special-use photos: Gretchen Carlson • Zelma Brounoff of Dallas Event Photography • Ariel Kendall • Benny Moreno • Kendy Sundvall • Future Productions, LLC • Innocence Project of Minnesota • Pathways to Children • Kim Jong-hyun

ThreeSixty Journalism Mail 5057, 2115 Summit Ave., St. Paul, MN 55105

www.threesixtyjournalism.org PHOTO STAFF https://www.facebook.com/threesixtyjournalism ThreeSixty students and staff pose for a photo with KSTP anchor Matt Belanger (front, center) on Feb. 17 at the University of St. Thomas https://twitter.com/threesixtymn TV studio. Belanger joined ThreeSixty’s school-year News Team for the morning to help teach students how to anchor during a live news broadcast. Each student had the opportunity to anchor with Belanger.

CONTENTS APRIL X Summer Camp X Hope for children ThreeSixty Engagement Manager Bao Vang 6 Local teenagers take an eye-opening trip to Bao Vang, Chad Caruthers, lays out her top three reasons why you should Colombia through nonprofit Pathways to Engagement Manager Executive Director join ThreeSixty Journalism’s summer camps. Children. Page 12 Page 5 X A ‘mini Target’ Board of Advisors: Brian Bellmont, Bellmont X Run Like Rel How the Roseville Area High School’s food shelf Partners • Mike Burbach, St. Paul Pioneer Press ThreeSixty Journalism alumni Ariel Kendall came to fruition. Page 12 • Nancy Cassutt, Minnesota Public Radio • helps young people in the Twin Cities discover Chris Havens, Best Buy • John Hobot, Wells and follow their dreams. Page 6 X The Dweller Fargo • Dale Kurschner • Dennis McGrath, An original comic illustration by one of our Public Relations • Sara Pelissero, KARE 11 • X A Night for Somalia ThreeSixty reporters. Page 13 Lida Poletz, public relations • Colleen Stoxen, Our ThreeSixty writer describes how a 7 Minneapolis fundraising event came together X Smartphones and distraction Star Tribune • Jack Sullivan, Dorsey & Whitney to support victims of a 2017 bombing in A St. Paul Harding counselor looks for a link LLP • Amanda Theisen, KSTP • Wendy Wyatt, Mogadishu. Page 7 between Internet addiction and academic University of St. Thomas success. Page 14 X Two options, one future Copyright 2018 All Rights Reserved An 18-year-old Twin Cities student and her X College Essays ThreeSixty Magazine will be published three times family weigh their next steps after learning the Students from St. Paul Harding High School during the 2017-18 school year. parents’ Temporary Protected Status will be share their powerful life stories. Page 15 ThreeSixty Magazine is designed by Diana Boger. terminated. Page 8 X Changemakers Email [email protected] with comments, X A new twist on tailgating 10 Profiles of people–including the two new mayors letters and questions about participating in ThreeSixty. Young people dish up healthy food and fun of Minneapolis and St. Paul–who are inspiring ThreeSixty Journalism is a nonprofit program of during a Super Bowl week celebration at Target positive change in the Twin Cities and beyond. the College of Arts and Sciences at the University Center in Minneapolis. Page 8 Page 19 of St. Thomas. Donations from individuals like you provide a significant amount of ThreeSixty’s X Blueprint for success X Mental illness in K-pop operating budget. To contribute, please visit The Young Women’s Initiative launches a new Our ThreeSixty writer details the tragic story of http://threesixtyjournalism.org/donate. plan to ensure bright futures for Minnesota a K-pop star and what can be learned from his women. Page 10 death. Page 28 X Freed from prison X Mental health in Ethiopia The Innocence Project of Minnesota frees a Our ThreeSixty writer poses questions about Minnesota man after 11 years behind bars. Page 11 mental health treatment in her parents’ home country. Page 29

2 threesixtyjournalism.org Contributors in this issue

MAGDA ABDI TALIA BRADLEY JOSE GALVAN ZEKRIAH CHAUDHRY ELEZEBET MITIKU BA PO PAY POE Junior, Hiawatha Senior, Minneapolis CASTRO Senior, Minneapolis Junior, St. Paul Harding Senior, Roseville Area Senior, Roseville Area Collegiate High School Washburn High School Senior, Cristo Rey Jesuit South High School High School High School High School High School

JOSE POPOCA HEIDI SANCHEZ STEPHANIE KATELYN VUE TONY VUE SHIMIN ZHANG PALMAS AVILA TAPIA-PONCE Senior, North St. Paul Junior, St. Paul Harding Senior, Roseville Area Senior, Cristo Rey Jesuit Junior, Hiawatha Senior, Robbinsdale High School High School High School High School Collegiate High School Armstrong High School

2018 ThreeSixty Scholar: Zekriah Chaudhry “I love ThreeSixty Journalism has successfully completed numer- “Zekriah started with selected ThreeSixty student ous print journalism camps with ThreeSixty the summer before storytelling.” Zekriah Chaudhry as the 2018 ThreeSixty, as well as TV and radio his freshman year in high school,” ThreeSixty Scholar. Chaudhry broadcast camps. said ThreeSixty executive director —Zekriah receives a full-tuition, four- As part of his ThreeSixty experi- Chad Caruthers. “He’s grown into Chaudhry year scholarship to study ence, Chaudhry recently reported a curious, skilled and passionate Communication and Journalism at on activities surrounding Super young journalist. He earned this St. Thomas starting in the 2018 fall Bowl LII in Minneapolis, covered scholarship and the opportunities semester. a Minnesota Timberwolves game that come with it.” “I love storytelling and can’t as part of a partnership with the For Chaudhry, the scholarship wait to develop new tools to help team and Star Tribune, and wrote represents another important step me do that better,” Chaudhry said. a profile on St. Thomas College of toward achieving his goal. “Journalism is a fast-developing Arts and Sciences Dean Dr. Yohuru “I want to be a professional field, and it will be great to have St. Williams. journalist,” Chaudhry said. “I hope Thomas’s COJO professors help In January, Chaudhry took to have nationally recognized work me find my place in it.” home a Minnesota Newspaper and a reputation as an honest and Chaudhry, a senior at Association “Better Newspaper trustworthy journalist.” Minneapolis South High School, Contest” second-place honor in Currently, there are four joined ThreeSixty in summer 2014 the business category for his story ThreeSixty scholars attending and wrapped up his participation on media companies embracing St. Thomas. this spring. During that time, he virtual reality as a storytelling tool.

April 2018 3 NOTEWORTHY

Skyler Kuczaboski, a freshman at Dartmouth College, also won first About the ThreeSixty place in the Columnist category for her personal recounting of learn- Scholar Award ing about white privilege. Each year, high school seniors who are graduates of ThreeSixty program- Zekriah Chaudhry, a senior at ming compete for the ThreeSixty Scholar award – a full-tuition, four-year Minneapolis South High School, scholarship to study communication and journalism at the University of St. took home a second-place honor in Thomas. Currently, there are four ThreeSixty scholars attending St. Thomas. the Business category for his story on media companies embracing Hoanglong, a freshman at virtual reality as a storytelling tool. St. Thomas, is reporting for Mina Yuan, a freshman at Stanford TommieMedia, the university’s University, also won second student-run news organization, place in Human Interest for her STAFF PHOTO STAFF and living on campus in the “Changemakers” profile on Coralie ThreeSixty Journalism students took home seven awards, including Communication & Journalism two first-place honors, in this year’s Minnesota Newspaper Association Maldonado, a Minnesota high department’s Living Learning College Better Newspaper Contest. school student activist. Community. She studied theol- Zahra Mustafa, a junior at ogy in Rome as part of a January Burnsville High School, earned study abroad program. Earlier this ThreeSixty students third place in the Columnist year, HoangLong joined the Public category for her college essay Relations Student Society of America win 7 MNA awards on rewriting the narrative about Samantha HoangLong and the Murray Hall Association. refugees. Kuczaboski also earned a For a fourth straight year, awards banquet was held Jan. 25 in third-place honor in the Editorial Wong, a sophomore, is a co- ThreeSixty Journalism students Bloomington. category for her op-ed on kneeling facilitator for St. Thomas’ Feminist have taken home seven Minnesota Katelyn Vue, a senior at North for the national anthem. Community and also works on Newspaper Association awards. St. Paul High School, won first Elezebet Mitiku, a junior at St. campus for the Luann Dummer ThreeSixty students earned two place in the Arts & Entertainment Paul Harding, took home a third- Center for Women and for media first-place finishes, two second- category for her story on local place honor in the Feature Photo services. Wong also is involved in place finishes and three third-place high school students who category for a photo she took for Cadenza, a women’s a capella group, finishes in the College Better painted the wall of a Minneapolis her story on Ethiopian runner as well as other creative projects. Newspaper Contest, an annual domestic violence shelter as Feyisa Lilesa’s protest at the 2016 In March, she helped organize the college-level competition. The a symbol of hope and healing. Summer Olympics. March for Lives walkout on campus.

Danielle Wong Warren-Yearby, a junior at St. Thomas, is studying TV, film and ThreeSixty shines on Super Bowl stage communications at Bond University in Queensland, Australia, as part of A Super Bowl in Minneapolis a yearlong study abroad program. wouldn’t be a Super Bowl in She plans to work on the production Minneapolis without sound report- team for the 2018 Commonwealth ing from ThreeSixty students. Game—an international, multi- Starting in September, a trifecta sport event in Queensland—at the of ThreeSixty students and a end of April. She’s also working on young alumna descended on the the creative team, leading worship big day’s supporting activities to and working graphics, at Hillsong give readers an inside look. Church. After all, there’s more to the Amira Warren-Yearby Super Bowl than the game itself, Honore, a senior, spent a portion as student Loveisajoy Pha wrote of her final semester at St. Thomas in her profile of Super Bowl LII’s in India as part of a reporting trip charitable giving and its leader, for the PBS NewsHour Under-Told Dana Nelson. Pha’s story was Stories Project. Honore, who interns published in the December 2017 at Under-Told Stories, went on the ThreeSixty Magazine. trip with Fred de Sam Lazaro, the “I really loved being able to do a Under-Told Stories executive direc- story that was relevant to current tor and a PBS NewsHour correspon- events,” Pha said. “I especially STAFF PHOTO STAFF dent. On top of her COJO major, enjoyed interviewing Dana.” ThreeSixty student Zekriah Chaudhry, a senior at Minneapolis South Honore also is majoring in Justice Student Zekriah Chaudhry High School, interviews Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen and Peace Studies. shared a similar thought on his during the Minnesota Super Bowl Host Committee Legacy Fund’s Kids Deborah Honore SUPER BOWL continued on page 9 Tailgate Party on Jan. 31 at Target Center in Minneapolis.

4 threesixtyjournalism.org NOTEWORTHY Three reasons you should apply to summer camp It happened to Hlee Lee. It also had a similar effect on Zekriah Chaudhry. Samantha HoangLong experienced it, too. ThreeSixty Journalism summer camp changed these high schoolers’ lives by introducing them to and enhancing their love for storytelling. And the impact was so great, these students all made the decision to study commu- nication and journalism in college. It will happen for some of you, too. Students who participate in one of ThreeSixty Journalism’s summer programs gain a voice to tell their stories, helping them feel more connected to their communities and become more driven, knowledgeable, confident, tenacious, brave, enthusiastic and passionate in life. Pretty cool, right? Need more reasons to sign up today? Here are my top three reasons why you should apply for ThreeSixty Journalism summer camp.

NO. 1: Bao Vang COMPLETE YOUR COLLEGE ThreeSixty ESSAY IN ONE WEEK! Journalism CARDONA, MPR NEWS MARIA ALEJANDRA COURTESY You can significantly increase your Engagement chances of getting into the college Manager I’ve been able to build with profes- student is when they receive our she said. Lee graduated from St. of your choice by submitting a sional journalists, going into their ThreeSixty Scholarship. It’s a Thomas in 2007 and is now a free- powerful and compelling personal ThreeSixty Journalism summer environments, observing their daily four-year, full-tuition scholar- lance videographer and storyteller essay. ThreeSixty Journalism and camp brings a diverse group of lives, their daily objectives they ship to study Communication and working primarily with Twin Cities- our volunteers, who are profes- high school students together from have to fulfill and getting an idea Journalism at the University of St. based nonprofits. sional writers and communications across the Twin Cities. You’ll enjoy- of what it’s like to be a professional Thomas. That’s a value of about Will you join hundreds of experts, support you throughout the ing learning from your peers’ expe- journalist.” $150,000. You’re eligible when your peers who say ThreeSixty process – from brainstorming topics riences, making memories together Often times, mentorships are you complete a two-week summer Journalism summer camp was the to revising to editing. Our students and staying lifelong friends. formed and professional journalists program and are admitted to the highlight of their high school life? have used their essays to get into Our ThreeSixty volunteers, guest will keep students in mind when University of St. Thomas. Apply today at www.threesixtyjour- New York University, Penn State speakers and supporters are also internships and job opportunities Lee, ThreeSixty’s inaugural nalism.org/summercamps. University and the University of St. eager to meet you and share their arise. scholar, remembered how stressed Thomas. journeys of becoming journalists she and her family of 10 felt about TAKE ADVANTAGE HoangLong, the 2017 ThreeSixty and communications professionals. college tuition. She was thinking, NO. 3: OF THIS OPPORTUNITY! Scholar and a freshman at the Chaudhry, a Minneapolis South WIN A CHANCE TO GO TO “What am I going to do, how am I University of St. Thomas, partici- High School senior, said his favorite COLLEGE TUITION-FREE! going to pay for college?” she said. Get the most out of your summer pated in summer camp in 2016. She part of ThreeSixty summer camps The ultimate life-changing event to “If I didn’t have the scholarship, I — join ThreeSixty today! Meet great people; learn new skills that said Boot Camp was “really fun.” so far has been “the connections happen to a ThreeSixty Journalism may not have stuck to journalism,” will help you in high school, college “I never thought a journalism and beyond; experience life on a camp was something I would enjoy college campus; and complete your much,” she said. “I was just going college essay. Apply for ThreeSixty Journalism’s Rookie Journalist because, ‘Okay, I get to write a col- Camp and ThreeSixty Journalism’s lege essay.’ … I ended up using that News Reporter Academy TODAY! college essay quite frequently.” To apply, go to www. The one-week College Essay Boot threesixtyjournalism.com/ Camp is offered as part of a two- summercamps and follow the directions to fill out the application. week journalism camp. It’s inten- Summer camps take place at the sive, but you’ll be glad you did it! University of St. Thomas, St. Paul campus. The application deadline NO. 2: is May 21, 2018. Space is limited, and it is a competitive application EXPAND YOUR NETWORK! process. Questions? Contact me Are you ready to grow your network at [email protected] or at of friends and people who can get 651-962-5225. you a job or internship later in life?

April 2018 5 THREESIXTY ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT Giving kids a running start

Ariel Kendall helps young people follow their dreams

As a ThreeSixty Journalism student in 2007, Ariel Kendall developed Stephanie a love for writing and a passion Tapia-Ponce Culture for helping other people tell their Reporter stories. She honed these skills as a jour- nalism student at the University of crucial in helping them develop a St. Thomas, and after graduation in life plan, Kendall says. 2011 started writing a blog, called Run Like Rel provides outside- “Run Like Rel,” to motivate other of-school workshops, often run in young people to “set goals and cross collaboration with other youth orga- finish lines.” nizations around the Twin Cities, STEPHANIE TAPIA-PONCE/THREESIXTY JOURNALISM STEPHANIE In 2013-14, with the help of a such as the YMCA, YWCA and ThreeSixty Journalism alum Ariel Kendall turned her post-college blog, Run Like Rel, into a nonprofit that aims to mentor, she turned the blog into STEM programs. RLR has served help young people achieve their dreams. a nonprofit organization to help more than 300 students during the inner-city high school students dis- past four years. cover and pursue their dreams. The RLR workshops focus on YOU CAN RUN WITH REL FIND OUT MORE The mission is to help close the education, health and career plan- high school achievement gap in ning, using such tools as dream RLR’s second annual “Start With A Dream” 5K Kids Run will be on To find out more and to donate to the Run Like Rel the Twin Cities, as well as to help boards, mission statements, goal Saturday, August 18, at Father Hennepin Park in Minneapolis. You “Start With A Dream” scholarship, go to https://www. students “realize what their skills setting and resume writing. can check it out and sign up online at: https://runlikerel.com. All crowdrise.com/run-like-rel-2016-17-endowment- proceeds go to support youth programs and scholarship funding. scholarship-fund-initiative/fundraiser/runlikerel and passions are, to articulate their Marcus Styles, a 20-year-old vision or dream, and then to figure student who attends Minneapolis out how to get there,” said Kendall, Community and Technical College, “I probably would not be the dream and helped RLR evolve into a provides health and wellness men- a Minneapolis native. “Also, of is a graphic designer and is working organized person that I am” without mission-based youth development toring to at-risk youth. The mis- course, to support them as they to become an independent artist. it, Styles said. organization. sions of the two organizations are work toward their goals.” He says the “passion planner” pro- Darrell Thompson, president of RLR workshops are some- complementary, and Bolder Options Reaching out to students in their vided by RLR “absolutely changed” Bolder Options, is Kendall’s mentor. times held at Bolder Options, a provides a fiscal and administrative mid-teens – or even earlier – is his life. He helped Kendall follow her Minneapolis-based nonprofit that umbrella for RLR. Run Like Rel is “led by a strong female who’s passionate about making a difference in the city where she grew up,” Thompson said. “She’s determined,” he said. “I believe passionately in what Ariel and RLR are trying to do.” RLR is a labor of love for Kendall, but for now she also has a day job at TADS, which provides tuition management and other services for private schools. “I hope in the next 3-to-5 years I’ll have my own building – an indoor space where I can do my programming – and I’ll have the funding to do RLR full time,” Kendall says.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ARIEL KENDALL COURTESY PHOTO Kendall is following her own Run Like Rel participants show off their “dream boards,” which help them focus on what they want to achieve in life. dream.

6 threesixtyjournalism.org NEWS ‘A Night for Somalia’ cash started to accumulate, and they had to assign people to pick it Minneapolis event raises funds up weekly. for Mogadishu bombing victims They wanted to do more. The bombing wasn’t the first tragedy to hit Somalia last year. A drought also struck the country, On a windy and cold Thanksgiving triggering a famine that impacted evening, while others were celebrat- millions. ing the holiday with friends and Magda Abdi Afro Deli and dozens of other family, I headed to Safari Restaurant News Reporter restaurants and coffee shops raised in south Minneapolis to view the money through an event called SUNDVALL OF KENDY COURTESY PHOTO result of my sister’s hard work: “A “Dine Out for Somalia” in the An artist gives a performance during the “A Night for Somalia” fundraiser Night For Somalia.” COMMENTARY spring. Abdi’s group hoped it could on Thanksgiving in Minneapolis. The fundraiser aided victims of a 2017 It was packed. The rows were emulate that success with a similar bombing in Mogadishu. filled with teenagers and young Miski Abdi, my sister, knew there event but found out that other res- adults, overwhelmed with excite- had to be a way to act, to respond. taurants were already working with hoped to create something different had ties to Safari Restaurant and ment, their voices bouncing from A naturally charismatic person, the Masjids, or mosques. that would connect and empower suggested it could host the event. the walls. My sister and friends who occasionally to the point of embar- They instead decided to host a the audience. The focus was a Once the venue was confirmed, organized the event ran from corner rassment for her younger siblings, fundraiser. But in a community that celebration of culture and looking the ball started to move – which to corner, making sure the event her casual social media conversa- had grown desensitized to tragedy forward to the future. This night was good, as organizers had only was running as planned. tions turned into a meeting within throughout years of hardship, a would also engage Somali youth. three weeks to pull off an event on a We were all here for the same days. typical fundraiser wasn’t the right “It’s cool to involve the older limited budget. reason. I felt a soaring wave of Six people showed up to brain- approach. generation,” Abdi said, “but to Social media was vital to pulling excitement as the crowd hushed storm a solution. “What can we do “We decided to [do] an assort- really invoke change, we have to the event together. With tech-savvy and the host gave his introductory that would help immediately?” was ment of fun things to keep the start getting the youth involved.” young people, word could spread speech. It was happening! the first question on Abdi’s mind. people engaged, because fundrais- Everyone in the group had quickly. A video featuring black and In October 2017, tragedy hit Naima Jama brought donation ers are boring,” Abdi said. “Who something to contribute. One girl white photographs of the organiz- home. In Mogadishu, Somalia, a boxes, which the group distributed wants to spend money when they’re had a knack for design and made ers, details of the bombing’s impact truck bombing killed more than 500 to local restaurants such as The depressed?” promotional materials ranging from and uplifting orchestral music laid people and injured more than 300 Nicollet Diner. Within a few days, Instead, Abdi and her friends T-shirts to posters. Someone else out the goal for the evening. others. It was the deadliest attack in Abdi knew that excitement had Somalia’s history. begun to build in the community, I think everyone was disap- but the response at the event was pointed, but no one was shocked. even greater than she expected. Somalia has been in a state of Organizers had to pull in extra despair for more than two decades. chairs and nearly ran out of space What I think let down everyone is as more and more young people that things appeared to be getting arrived. better. Several local designers show- Eight months earlier, we had cased athletic and casual wear in gotten a new president, Mohamed a fashion show. Poets read poems Abdullahi “Farmajo” Mohamed, who written from the perspective of a promised that religious extremist young person living in the Somali groups such as Al-Shabaab would be diaspora. An upcoming rapper gone. Things were going to change, performed at the event. T-shirts until they didn’t. and red headbands, similar to We took one step toward prog- those worn by angry protesters in ress and we went two steps back. It Somalia, were available for sale and was devastating. Would we continue showed solidarity with the victims on this fluctuating path of success of the attack. and disaster? What could we do, The different initiatives raised other than donate money to the nearly $9,500 all together. This afflicted? SUNDVALL OF KENDY COURTESY PHOTO money went to Aamin Ambulance, This is where the story begins. Miski Abdi, one of the organizers of “A Night for Somalia” fundraiser, speaks to attendees during the event. SOMALIA continued on page 26

April 2018 7 NEWS Two options, one future

18-year-old must decide to leave U.S. home or move to foreign land

Editor’s Note: The name of one of the sources in this story has been changed Jose Popoca to protect her identity. Palmas News Reporter While many high school students are applying to colleges or con- cerned about grades, Rebecca is been reconstructed and repaired, worrying about something else. homes have been rebuilt, and Rebecca’s parents are among money has been provided for an estimated 230,000 Salvadoran water and sanitation and to repair immigrants in the U.S. – thou- earthquake damaged roads and sands of whom are in Minnesota other infrastructure,” the depart- PHOTO STAFF Eva Hunderfund, a 10-year-old from Rochester, was one of 10 youth chef finalists in a healthy eating competition – whose Temporary Protected ment said in a January statement. during the Minnesota Super Bowl Host Committee’s Kids Tailgate Party in January. Youth put a new twist on tailgating Status (TPS) will expire in 2019. “The substantial disruption of by serving up healthy foods during the Super Bowl week celebration. The Trump administration living conditions caused by the announced in January that earthquake no longer exist.” protections for immigrants Rebecca’s mother came to the from El Salvador will terminate U.S. at the age of 17 to support Tailgating with a twist in September 2019, throwing her two children, who lived in Rebecca’s life into uncertainty El Salvador with their grand- important to have that in your life.” as her family is forced to choose mother, Rebecca said. With only a Also attending the event was their next steps from a list of life- first-grade education, her mother Young people serve up healthy foods, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, who changing options. struggled to get enough money to fun at Super Bowl party said the Tailgate Party was one of “What if one day they do have to get by. several events that demonstrated leave?” said Rebecca, 18, a local stu- “At age 17, she had three jobs what Minnesota did well while dent whose name has been changed working day and night to send hosting the Super Bowl. to protect her and her family’s money to El Salvador to build a Tailgating is known for fans parking “You don’t want to have the identity. “We have to have a plan for house,” said Rebecca, who was their cars outside of stadiums hours Zekriah Super Bowl followed by no lasting what we are going to do next.” born a U.S. citizen. before football games, grilling hot Chaudhry legacy,” Frey said. “And these funds News Senior The U.S. Secretary of Homeland After years of hard work, dogs and drinking cold cans of beer. help encourage different programs Reporter Security may grant Temporary Rebecca’s mother started her own But at the Super Bowl Kids that are helping youth and are Protective Status to a foreign business and had her own employ- Tailgate Party, Minnesota youth social justice-oriented for the long country “due to conditions in ees. This was all thanks to TPS, exchanged those traditions for Minnesota kids and their parents. haul.” the country that temporarily which allowed her to stay and healthy food served out of colorful NFL players and other celebrities The event also honored 10 prevent the country’s nation- work legally in the U.S., according cardboard food trucks. were also at the event, including Minnesota youth who created als from returning safely, or in to Rebecca. The Minnesota Super Bowl Vikings defensive end Everson healthy recipes to share at the certain circumstances, where the “TPS is a temporary protective Host Committee Legacy Fund’s Griffen. Griffen spent time at the event. Those 10 “youth chefs” country is unable to handle the status and a humanitarian-based Kids Tailgate Party on Jan. 31 at event signing autographs, enjoy- were the finalists of the Super return of its nationals adequately,” protection that exists for people the Target Center in Minneapolis ing the food – his favorite was the Snack Challenge, a healthy food- according to U.S. Citizenship and from countries who are experienc- emphasized the importance of sweet potato skins, he said – and themed competition that featured Immigration Services. ing political turmoil and humani- children’s health in Minnesota. The playing around with the kids. But Minnesota youth ages 8 to 14. TPS was given to El Salvador tarian or national disaster,” said event was the conclusion of the he also made sure to emphasize the Eva Hunderfund, a 10-year-old after two earthquakes ravaged the John Keller, executive director of Legacy Fund’s 52 weeks of giving, importance of the Tailgate Party who attends Schaeffer Academy country in 2001. However, accord- the Immigrant Law Center in an initiative that provided a grant message. in Rochester, was one of the 10 ing to the Department of Homeland St. Paul. promoting youth health and well- “Kids should be outside doing finalists. Hunderfund spent most of Security, living conditions in El TPS meant a lot to Rebecca’s ness in Minnesota each week for activities,” Griffen said. “Football, her time standing near center court Salvador have since improved. parents because it helped them one year leading up to the Super sports, running, playing with during the event, smiling and shar- “Schools and hospitals dam- build a life in the U.S. Bowl in Minneapolis. friends, instead of sitting [inside ing her “Healthy Rainbow Towers” aged by the earthquakes have FUTURE continued on page 9 The cause drew hundreds of playing] a video game. It’s TAILGATING continued on page 9

8 threesixtyjournalism.org FUTURE from page 8 order to sponsor her parents. The with them, in which I will either policy for people who lived in know where I will work or where “That’s how they got a house and U visa is for victims of violent stay and finish my education or go the United States for a long time. I’m going to stay, and I can’t depend a car, and they worked legally here,” crimes. with them,” Rebecca said. Unless you have a visa, they will on my family forever.” Rebecca said. Rebecca’s family has thought of Keller says families like Rebecca’s turn you back.” It’s a decision Rebecca says she Keller says families like Rebecca’s another riskier option: moving to won’t find the generous, open arms Rebecca now has to make a deci- shouldn’t be forced to make. It makes have two options to stay in the U.S.: Canada. Her family believes it is the they expect in Canada. sion most 18-year-olds never have to her anxious. She should be concen- a U visa or a green card, neither of best option to allow them to start a “People think there is hope that consider: stay in the U.S. alone or go trating on school and not thinking which apply to Rebecca’s situation. new life, according to Rebecca. they will be generous,” he said. “We with her parents to a foreign land. about such huge decisions, she said. To obtain green cards, Rebecca “My parents’ plan is to flee to have to educate people that Canada “I don’t know how I will go “I don’t know what I’m going to would need to be 21 years old in Canada and take my siblings along doesn’t just have an open-door through my life,” she said. “I don’t do,” she said. “It’s hard.”

TAILGATING from page 8 of the Super Bowl Legacy Fund a new athletic field. “Opportunities like these ... with hungry passersby. Her snack Advisory Committee, attended the “The Super Bowl garners so was made up of foods ranging from event and said it highlighted every- much attention. So what’s hap- are the reasons I am pursuing bacon and baby spinach to blueber- thing the Legacy Fund had been pening here, the focus on clean ries and pineapple. focused on supporting over the 52 eating and getting kids moving a profession in journalism.” 12-year-old Princess-Ann Nelson, weeks of giving. and healthy, that’s going to go who goes to Southside Family “It’s so important for kids out to a lot of different places in Charter School in Minneapolis, was to have a good foundation,” Minnesota,” Laskowski said. “That also one of the competitors who Laskowski said. “We find that message is an important message attended the event. Her snack idea about 80 percent of kids who are that we need to have told.” made it to the final 52 before the pool obese grow up to be obese adults. While the excitement surround- was narrowed down to 10 finalists. So if we get good habits established ing Super Bowl week in Minneapolis “I feel like this is a really nice early and we get them eating clean, centered around the big game event to get the kids out, especially eating well, moving, learning the and the high-profile concerts, the because it’s right downtown, it’s value of exercise and activity, impact of the Tailgate Party was available to the north side and it’s they usually carry that with them especially memorable to young also available to the south side,” through life.” people like Hunderfund. Nelson said. The Super Bowl Legacy Fund’s “This is amazing that I’ve been Dr. Edward Laskowski, co- final gift was a $220,000 grant able to do this,” Hunderfund said. director of the Mayo Clinic Sports to Anwatin Middle School in She paused, before adding: “It’s just Medicine Center and a member Minneapolis for the construction of really amazing!” STAFF PHOTO STAFF ThreeSixty student Loveisajoy Pha, a senior at Champlin Park High School, poses for a photo with Dana Nelson, vice president, legacy and community partnerships for the Minnesota Super Bowl Host Committee, in the fall at the Super Bowl volunteer center in Minneapolis. Pha featured Nelson in the December 2017 issue of ThreeSixty Magazine.

SUPER BOWL from page 4 Famers Ray Lewis and Randy experience at the Super Bowl’s Moss, as well as St. Paul Mayor Kids Tailgate Party at Target Melvin Carter, were among the Center (page 8). award recipients. “Interviewing the mayor of my Wong covered the red carpet city [Minneapolis Mayor Jacob and snagged an interview with Frey] and one of the Vikings’ best comedian and actor Kevin Hart. players [defensive end Everson “It was a fascinating experience Griffen] in a span of about 15 to see the scene behind the red minutes is about as amazing as it carpet and to humanize celebri- gets,” Chaudhry said. ties,” she said of her opportunity. From there, it was on to game- “Opportunities like these,” Pha day with 2016 ThreeSixty Scholar offered, “from writing and sharing Danielle Wong. She covered the stories to meeting inspiring indi-

STAFF PHOTO STAFF star-studded Power of Influence viduals, are the reasons I am pur- Minnesota Vikings defensive end Everson Griffen signs autographs for young people during the Kids Tailgate Party. Awards Brunch. NFL Hall of suing a profession in journalism.”

April 2018 9 NEWS A blueprint for success

Young Women’s Initiative launches plan to ensure bright future for MN women

It wasn’t until college that Brook LaFloe learned there were terms for Katelyn Vue what she experienced growing up News Senior – terms such as domestic violence Reporter and alcoholism. Now that she’s gone through a healing process, the St. Paul resi- dent is ready to be a voice for her can take it.” community, especially for women. One of the recommendations is “I’m Native American, and I feel to increase awareness of violence SUBMITTED PHOTO Brook LaFloe, a cabinet member of the Young Women’s Initiative, participates in a meeting of the Young Women’s like we’re a very small population, against young women. One solution Leadership Day on Sept. 9, 2017, at the Minnesota State Capitol. The Young Women’s Initiative has created a statewide first of all, but we also don’t have a is to increase advocate outreach plan to eliminate barriers for young women in Minnesota. lot of leadership in government and and victim services within com- big corporate jobs,” LaFloe said. munities and cultures, including “We’re kind of silenced, in a sense.” immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ, SIX FOCUS AREAS LaFloe, now an educator, is one gender non-conforming people, of several women working to ensure women in greater Minnesota and The Young Women’s Initiative opportunity and eliminate barri- young women with disabilities, created these six focus areas as the framework for the Blueprint ers for young women as a cabinet according to the report. Other for Action. member of the Young Women’s proposed programs include finding Initiative of Minnesota, a public- solutions for lack of healthcare 1. Financial stability & prosperity: private partnership between the access, community-centered child- Young women have financial Women’s Foundation of Minnesota care and more. stability and pathways to prosperity. and the state. A new plan through In order to make these recom- the Young Women’s Initiative, mendations happen, a commit- 2. Safety & violence prevention: Young women feel safe and free called the “Blueprint for Action,” tee will review applications from from all forms of violence at could help achieve that. organizations across Minnesota home, school, work and in the The Blueprint for Action, funded and reward grant money to fund community. through the Women’s Foundation, programs. These programs will 3. Education & lifelong learning: is a seven-year roadmap that help combat issues affecting young Young women have access to offers a list of 20 recommenda- women and align with the Blueprint formal education and the life- skills training needed to make tions to help eliminate barriers for for Action. PHOTO SUBMITTED PHOTO sound decisions and engage in young women. The report reflects “It’s not going to happen over- Members of the 2017-18 Young Women’s Cabinet pose for a photo with planning for the future. research, deep conversations and night,” said Mary Beth Hanson, Gov. Mark Dayton (front, center). 4. Cultural & self-identity: lived experiences, and was devel- vice president of external relations Young women have a supportive oped through the help of commu- at the Women’s Foundation of foundation in the U.S., according is truly a cross-sector and commu- community with positive role nity partners. The work has already Minnesota. “If you’ve read the 20 to its website. It’s also the only nity-building initiative.” models and a strong cultural begun with a council of 70 leaders recommendations, they’re 20 and grantmaking organization in the When the Blueprint for Action and self-identity. across Minnesota. they’re big. So it takes dedicated state to focus exclusively on equity was released in November, LaFloe 5. Health & wellness: Young women With women’s movements such work and focus, and to break it for women and young girls. remembers the moment as are physically and emotionally healthy. as “#MeToo” and “#Timesup” down because we can’t [achieve Deena Zubulake, director of rewarding. spreading awareness of women’s them] all at once, but we want to housing and youth programs at “This was one of our end pieces 6. Family & caregiving: Young women are free to rights across the globe, and with a make sure the recommendations are the YWCA, said young girls can and we actually did it,” she said. “It pursue their dreams in ways that gubernatorial election right around valued and moved forward.” expect impactful changes from the was a very patient process to get honor their personal, family and the corner, now’s the time to take The Young Women’s Initiative Blueprint for Action. there.” caregiving responsibilities. action, LaFloe said. played a crucial role in the research “I think one thing that girls can Learn more about the Blueprint for Editor’s Note: Katelyn Vue is a member of “This is it,” LaFloe said. “This process and in creating the expect across our state is to be con- Action at wfmn.org. is kind of our time to advance our Blueprint for Action. The organiza- fident that this is not being led by the Young Women’s Initiative. work and get it going, see where we tion is the first statewide women’s one entity,” she said, “but that this

10 threesixtyjournalism.org NEWS ‘A desperate person’s last hope’

Innocence Project of Minnesota frees man who spent 11 years behind bars

David Schultz sat down across from Terry Olson at Stillwater Zekriah Prison, meeting for the first time Chaudhry News Senior in a room designated for private Reporter attorney-client discussions. Initially, Olson’s lack of faith in the criminal justice system was Hammill. in dramatic contrast with that of IPMN, founded in 2001, is an Schultz, a confident lawyer. Olson independent organization that aims had dealt with years’ worth of bad to exonerate those who have been OF MINNESOTA OF THE INNOCENCE PROJECT COURTESY PHOTOS lawyers, bad trials, bad luck. wrongfully convicted. It had suc- Terry Olson, a Minnesota man who was freed by the Innocence Project of Minnesota in 2016 after spending 11 years Seven years behind bars weighed cessfully secured the release of four in prison, holds the hand of his attorney, David Schultz. The Innocence Project has helped release five wrongfully on his mind. The constant noise, people before its representation of convicted men from behind bars, including Olson. the impossibility of escape, the Olson. pent-up rage of a man without IPMN first offered help on the scene,” he said. freedom. FREEING OLSON Olson case in 2009 but couldn’t OLSON CASE TIMELINE The result of the trial was a “The anger just sort of rolled The organization sent Schultz to officially get involved until Olson 17-year sentence for Olson. 1979 Jeff Hammill’s death right off him,” Schultz said. “You Stillwater Prison in 2012 to inter- exhausted certain appeals. When “I knew how I ended up there. 2001 Innocence Project of could just feel how angry he was. view Olson about the case, hoping its official involvement began in Minnesota founded But I had no clue which direction I He didn’t say it this way, but the its team of volunteer lawyers could 2012, IPMN wanted to show the 2003 Hammill’s case reopened was going,” Olson said. “[Prison] impression was, ‘Who the hell are accomplish what other defense flaws in the trial that sent Olson to 2005 Terry Olson arrested was torturous. Every minute-and- you? Why should I believe anything attorneys had tried and failed to do prison in 2007, nearly 30 years after 2007 Olson convicted a-half, a frickin’ toilet flushed. And 2012 IPMN starts work on you tell me? What do you even – get justice for Olson. Hammill’s death. Olson’s case you’re like, ‘Oh my God, this is my know about my case?’” “[Schultz] said, ‘This is going to Hammill was found on the side 2016 Olson freed from life now?’” Schultz, then a partner at take a while, but I’m going to get of a Wright County road outside Minnesota Correctional Five years later, Olson met Minneapolis litigation firm Maslon you home,’” Olson said. “You can’t of Buffalo with a fatal head injury. Facility in Faribault Schultz for the first time. Julie LLP, was one of the lawyers forget that coming out of the mouth Investigators initially ruled the Jonas, the legal director of IPMN, tasked by the Innocence Project of of any lawyer. cause of death as undetermined. polygraph tests before the case was said six lawyers and at least a dozen Minnesota (IPMN) with reversing “I knew it. When he left that day, They questioned Olson, who gave eventually closed. law students contributed in the the 2007 conviction that sent Olson I knew that guy was going to get me Hammill a ride to a party earlier However, in 2003 the case was effort to exonerate Olson. to prison for the 1979 death of Jeff out of there. I believed him.” in the evening. Olson passed two reopened, and Olson and two others Jonas put in at least 2,000 hours were charged. Olson’s arrest came herself, she said. Schultz said that, in 2005, and he was held in jail for based on his then-hourly fee at 23 months awaiting trial. Maslon, the amount of time he Controversy around the trial spent on the case was worth more stemmed mainly from the prosecu- than $1 million. tion’s use of a witness named Dale “At some points, it was every day Todd, who was one of the defen- that we would talk on the phone,” dants in the case and whom the Schultz said about his conversa- Innocence Project called “mentally tions with Olson during the years of ill.” Todd testified against Olson but litigation. “More typically, we would later told IPMN he, Olson and the go long periods where nothing was third defendant were not involved happening and I would visit him in Hammill’s death. every month or two, which I know Schultz said he was surprised the was frustrating to him.” prosecution had managed to get a Eventually, the waiting game Olson and his mother, Gladys, embrace after Olson was convicted in 2007 for the 1979 death of Jeff conviction during trial. ended – in large part because of Olson was released from a Faribault jail in 2016. Hammill. Olson’s release from prison did not exonerate him, “There was absolutely noth- Todd, the man who testified against but he maintains his innocence. ing physical tying [Olson] to the INNOCENCE continued on page 30

April 2018 11 ACTIVE LIFE

attend Colegio Anexo San Francisco A pathway of hope de Asís. Pathways also brings chil- dren and adults on volunteer trips to Ethiopia and India. for children “When we were over there, the whole group was all one family,” said Vazquez, a senior at Cristo Rey. Trip to Colombia to help poor families “We were all united.” Grace Strangis, a former pediatric an eye-opener for local teens nurse and travel company owner from Minnesota, founded Pathways in Minneapolis in 2009. During Last November, Evelyn Vazquez a service trip to India after the took a one-week service trip to Jose Galvan Indian Ocean Tsunami in 2004, she Colombia and was struck by the Castro was distraught at seeing hundreds Active Life sight of homeless children and of children living on the streets, Reporter broken down homes without roofs. including 6-year-olds taking care of Vazquez, 18, worked with chil- their younger siblings because their JOSE GALVAN/THREESIXTY JOURNALISM dren who had no food, clean water, from Cristo Rey Jesuit High School parents had passed away from HIV, Amy Aguilar, left, works with Cristo Rey and Colegio Anexo San Francisco a place to sleep or parents. She saw in Minneapolis traveled to Bogota she said. de Asis students to paint a mural in Bogota, Colombia. The service trip was families that were malnourished through Pathways to Children, a She decided to use her expertise taken through Pathways to Children, a local nonprofit. and homeless with nowhere to go. nonprofit that empowers children after the trip to bring volunteers She learned to embrace people with in poverty through education, overseas to help people in need. “I started Pathways to Children the needs and work to make a differ- open arms and serve others, she healthcare and volunteering. They Strangis would later receive letters because I wanted to make a differ- ence,” Strangis said. “I believe that said. were paired with a group of 14 other from kids saying that she was their ence in the world of poverty, and as making a difference is the only way Vazquez and 13 other students students who lived in Colombia and new mother and father. importantly help others understand COLOMBIA continued on page 26

In 2008, students began designing service learning projects to benefit More than people in and around Roseville Area High School. Eventually, an idea formed that would have a lasting community service impact on students — a food shelf. The idea came after the Roseville Student Council visited the food Roseville service learning projects shelf at the Anoka-Hennepin school district. The student council felt give students chance to Roseville needed something similar, understand issues, offer solutions according to teacher Concetta Smith, who helped with the project. Students began to plan what is At Roseville Area High School, there now known simply as the “Food is a small room that looks like a Shimin Zhang Shelf.” About 40 students were mini Target. Culture involved in the project. When you walk in, to the right Reporter Through the college readi- you will see clothes — coats, hats, ness program Advancement Via gloves. There are school supplies on Individual Determination (AVID), the shelves in front of you. And on food shelf to stock up. They can students found the opportunity to the left side, you will see dry foods also bring food home to help their fund the program. and home necessities. families. “I think the question was, ‘If you The major difference between “My family doesn’t need to spend have $1,000, how would you change this room and Target is that every- money [to] buy stuff — that’s your school?’” Smith said. “And so, thing here is free. This is the high helpful,” Roseville senior Pay Poe that was what one of our students school’s food shelf, the result of a said. “Academically, because of the decided to do with that money.” service learning project that was resources, it helps us [not] worry … Starting in 2011, students worked

completed in 2012. You don’t have to go buy stuff that’s an entire year to bring the project SHIMIN ZHANG/THREESIXTY JOURNALISM When students run out of note- needed for school, because it’s together, between preparing the Students from Roseville Area High School in the school’s food shelf, the result books or pencils, they can go to the already there.” SERVICE continued on page 26 of a service learning project by students several years ago.

12 threesixtyjournalism.org CULTURE

April 2018 13 Smartphones: Not the only distraction

St. Paul Harding counselor looks for link between Internet addiction and academic success

Tony Vue Culture Reporter

Marianna Sullivan noticed a problem. A counselor at St. Paul Harding High School, Sullivan saw last year that some seniors were not graduat- ing at the last minute due to a lack of credits, she said. “I thought this was very strange, so I wanted to try to figure out, what’s the common denominator?” Sullivan said. “Why is it that all of these really wonderful and smart students suddenly didn’t graduate because of one credit or one course?” She wondered if social media and smartphones were part of the problem. She had heard from teach- ers that smartphones and other technology could be a distraction in class, she said. As part of a districtwide project, Sullivan gave nearly 100 St. Paul Harding students surveys on Internet addiction and found no clear link between students’ Internet addiction scores and their academic success. The study is still ongoing. “My whole objective is to be able to help students be successful and graduate on time,” Sullivan said. “But now with the research [I’ve done], I don’t know for sure if it’s specifically social media.” The 2016 four-year graduation rate at St. Paul Harding High School – the most recent data available online – was 80.3 percent, accord- ing to district data. The four-year COUNSELOR continued on page 29

14 threesixtyjournalism.org COLLEGE ESSAY BOOT CAMP Kicking students’ college essays into shape! PHOTO BY CARMELLA HANLON, ALL OTHER PHOTOS OF COLLEGE ESSAY BOOT CAMP BY BAO VANG BAO CAMP BY BOOT ESSAY OF COLLEGE PHOTOS ALL OTHER CARMELLA BY HANLON, PHOTO

morning. Throughout the bus ride to eighth grade, I accepted a new risk College Essay Boot Camp is each student’s entry In April, despite wonky wi-fi and a snow day (ah, the camp, I rested my head against and challenged myself to go on a point into ThreeSixty, and for those who continue April in Minnesota), a classroom of eager Harding the back of the seat in front of me. I school trip to Washington, D.C. It with the program this summer and beyond, it’s High School teens joined ThreeSixty and a half- avoided people. I just needed time was a three-day adventure without just the beginning of their ThreeSixty story. For dozen all-star volunteer writing coaches over spring alone to reflect and process what had my parents. While I was nervous all, though, boot camp is the chance to transform break to kick their college essays into shape! These happened. I tried to still have fun. to go, I thought YOLO -- you only and share their diverse life stories, and to create students brought their trust, poise and fearless per- And I did. I remember learning how live once. In the nation’s capital I that polished, adaptable college essay that will help spectives into camp and produced powerful, personal to ice fish. If I didn’t go, I wouldn’t saw many things that expanded my land students in colleges and universities from pieces that we—and they—proudly share with you. have had the had the chance to learn understanding. For example, at the coast to coast. —Chad Caruthers, ThreeSixty executive director something new. In hindsight, I’m Holocaust Museum I saw emotional glad I went to distract myself from videos and artifacts on the persecu- seeing my grandma, only 63 years my grandmother’s death. tion of Jews during the Holocaust. At old, laughing and dancing and posing Days after she passed, I felt Arlington National Cemetery, I was Life’s Short, Go See the World for photos with our family. incomplete because my grandma thankful I did not have to make that Little did I know, that would be the was no longer here to greet me and ultimate sacrifice as a young soldier. last time I would see her alive. The give me her goodies or hugs when At the National African American When I rushed into at my grandma’s next morning, I woke up in panic to I went to her house. Weeks later, museum, I learned how horribly house on the morning of February my dad yelling. seeing her again at her funeral was blacks were treated as slaves and in Aleena Thor 26, 2012, she was already dead. I Harding Senior “Wake up! Your grandma has died, really comforting to me because she our recent history. was 8 years old and I knew she was High School wake up!” was no longer suffering from kidney That trip opened my eyes and sick. Her death was still sudden and When I arrived at her house, the failure, and I knew she would soon curiosity to the world. I want to travel unexpected. And it took a part of me living room was maxed out with more be reunited with my grandpa and our more and learn more things that that cannot be replaced. This experi- memories includes watching my people than it could hold. Everyone ancestors. textbooks and the internet cannot ence taught me to try to live life to grandma reach to the top of her ward- was crying. My grandmother’s body My grandmother has taught me teach. And thanks to a great teacher, the fullest. robe, grab her secret stash of goodies was lying peacefully on the ground, the greatest lesson of all. She inspires my grandmother, I will not allow My grandmother was my care- and hand me a delicious lucky straw- on her back, with her head resting on me to realize that life is short and lim- myself to miss out on any opportuni- taker. Both my parents worked berry candy when I behaved well. a pillow. To this day, I can still hear ited. I should never take anything for ties to learn and explore. I plan to full-time jobs as teachers and I stayed The last memories I have of her were the wailing in my head. granted -- from the people in my life go to college and study journalism, with my grandma until I started from the night before she passed. The next thing I recall was heading to my education, to my future. And travel, and share and tell stories from school. One of my most special At my aunt’s wedding, I remember to a Girl Scout camp trip later that I’m already starting. Last year, in around the world.

April 2018 15 COLLEGE ESSAYS

a month because I didn’t want to Don’t cry.” a college readiness program. My become a burden on anyone. I often I didn’t even realize that I was coach has helped me prepare for the Divorce Teaches Independence didn’t arrive until 10 p.m. because crying. I stayed quiet and wiped ACT and to apply to colleges. I’m of tennis practice. I still did my away tears that wouldn’t stop flow- also doing well in tennis. I play No. homework, which meant I would ing down my face. 2 doubles and our girls’ team has When my dad flipped over the not go to bed until 2 a.m., and then When I was finally able to see my won the St. Paul Conference four tables and shattered all of the glass Alyssa I would be up early to go to classes mom regularly, she’d moved into an straight years. Xiong in my house one night in 2016, I at Harding High School, where I was apartment and I split my time with I’ve learned a lot in my short Harding Senior knew my house wasn’t safe any- High School a sophomore. Life was hard and I my mom and my cousin. Eventually, life. And I’m not done learning. more. He and my mom were fight- was tired! my mom and I moved back into the Being homeless taught me how to ing again. I packed what I needed I settled in with a cousin for a family house after my dad moved to become more independent and to move out and find a new place to to . . .” couple of months. My mom finally California. strong because I was alone and sleep the next night. I felt so lost without her but I reconnected with me, and we went Fortunately, during these tough had to provide for myself. I know I My mom disappeared for two understood that it was best for her out to eat one day. There, she told times I always enjoyed school. My will have to do this when I attend weeks after my dad had this melt- safety for her to leave. My dad was me something that changed my life two favorite subjects are chemistry college -- where my classes and the down. I didn’t know where she was. still in the family house but I didn’t completely. and biology. Because of that I’m new environment will test me. I tried contacting her countless think staying there was good idea, “Your dad and I are filing for a interested in becoming a physician’s In the end, I want to show my times, with no luck. She turned off and my older brother was living divorce.” assistant. I know it will take a long mom my appreciation for her her cell phone and the familiar but elsewhere. My body froze. I didn’t know how time to achieve that career but I will sacrifices. Between my enjoyment frustrating auto message greeted me I became homeless. I have a large, to react. get there with a lot of hard work and of school, my strength and my each time. extended family, and I bounced “It’s okay, don’t cry,” my mom dedication. I’m proving that with independence, I will succeed and “Your call has been forwarded from house to house every night for told me. “We’ll talk about it later. my involvement in College Possible, become the person I want to be.

part of who I am. insecure and pressured wondering that I lacked the leadership skills for The bliss of listening and playing whether my music teacher would the job. So I dedicated most of my Music Opens Doors to Opportunities my favorite pieces on piano always disapprove of my style and seeing summer my freshman year to devel- excited me. Despite the difficulty other students gaze stiffly at me. oping leadership skills in a program learning everything by myself, I felt I laid my fingers on the polished called the Center for Hmong Arts The beauty of the piano was that the need to feel the pleasant sounds wooden white and black keys and and Talents or CHAT. I created it became a large part of who I Jacky bring a chill down my spinal cord let loose the sounds of a summer songs with friends and learned to Thao am. The consonant and disso- and that I wanted to finish it to the vacation tune as if I were free to do improve expressing myself on stage Harding Senior nant sounds of jazz, classical, and High School end. anything I wanted. Free from the and attracting me to other summer modern music fill my limbic cortex I developed muscle memories pressure and insecurity. opportunities. with everlasting joy. Music has on piano pieces without having to I had never had the feeling of I’ve changed my life significantly. helped me cope with the loneliness during my childhood years. I was look back at the recording. Then I performing in front of audiences I’ve become self-driven in music, of childhood and to gain self-confi- somewhat awkward and aggressive, progressed on to play piano pieces before. To have my accomplishment schoolwork, and discovering new dence, and leadership. bored and very lonely. by watching Synthesia piano tutori- acknowledged as they applauded opportunities -- competing in My love for music will always be a On a sunny afternoon at my als, analyzing pieces by ear, learning made me feel at home. It was an musical competitions, volunteering, center of my life even if college and cousin’s house, I became fascinated how to read music notations, and insight that was sudden and new to performing as an actor as well as a career take me elsewhere. The piano with the piano as I heard my cousin how to improvise using major and me like receiving a jolt of nourishing musician, trying to bring joy in com- also has led me to pursue other play a solemn tune that sparked minor scales. life from a lightning strike. It has municating to audiences. interests such as poetry, acting, inspiration deep in my atria. I asked Although I was able to learn and helped me gain self-confidence not Although I may not major in biology, writing, and computer pro- my father that day to buy me a complete complex piano pieces, I only in music, however into making music (following my parent’s gramming, including after-school piano. He did, and I taught myself. wasn’t able to share my playing with new friends too. wishes), my eyes have been opened extracurricular activities such as I sat down at my family’s electric anyone else. Playing the piano strengthened to so many other areas of interest, College Possible, Jazz Band, and piano more and more. YouTube That changed when I was a my character in other ways, too. especially in arts and communica- Piano Club. videos, music lessons, and simple high school freshman when I was I became president of the Piano tions, where I can make a contribu- I did not fit in with classmates practices. Slowly, the piano became asked to play in a piano class. I felt Club. It was fun, but I recognized tion in college and career.

16 threesixtyjournalism.org COLLEGE ESSAYS

for the family. “You don’t want to end like us. -- skills I know I will need in the My mom impresses me when I Do something that you like and use future. Working Hard to Get Ahead see her wake up at 4:30 a.m. to get it for your future,” my dad has told I also love photography. When ready for work in a factory. My dad me. “Have faith in what you want to I take a picture of a person or an also works early and sometimes become.” I always have that quote object, it reminds me of something I cook. I clean. And I’m already arrives home as late as 8 p.m. I in my heart and mind. special and precious. It really is true a parent to my younger siblings. Jose notice their tired eyes struggle to I am a junior at Harding High that a picture is worth a thousand Torres I have no other choice at the age stay open some nights. They work School in St. Paul. I like school and words. No matter where I go, I take Harding Senior of 16 than to man up and act like High School so hard and they never give up. my favorite subjects are history pictures. Photography shows me an adult while my mom and dad When my parents are at work, I and math. I was on the soccer to how to embrace life and not be are working long and exhausting slave over chores and take care of and track and field teams. Playing shy, to make new friends every day, labor jobs. They expect a lot from lacked technology and resources for my siblings. It’s my duty to protect sports showed me the value of and to help people deal with their me and I plan to live up to their a better living. In the 1990s, they my brother and sister. It’s like I am being respectful to others and never struggles. expectations by going to school, moved to the United States. a parent at age 16. It seems hard, giving up. When I ran the 4x100 I want to become a therapist getting good grades and enrolling I have learned a lot of things from but in reality, it’s a good way to relay at the conference meet, I ran because I like helping people. I in college. my parents, who know we all have a prepare myself for when I move out the anchor leg, and even though I know have to go to college. I know Their childhoods differed from better chance to get ahead by living and start a new life on my own. got tired I had no choice but to sur- why I’m here in this world: to show mine. They grew up in Mexico and in America. Seeing them work day Because they didn’t finish pass my limits and finish the race. what I’m capable of. I want to get dropped out of high school in 9th and night and not getting enough high school, my parents want my In my junior year, I took a break ahead and be successful in life. I grade because they had to work sleep shows me their courage and brother, sister and me to graduate from sports to work. I average 27 have learned a lot in school and on their parents’ farms. Life in dedication. They work at least 10 high school, go to college and have hours a week as a cook at Chipotle from my parents, and I know I will their hometown of Puebla, most hours a day and have just enough a career. in downtown St. Paul. At this job, succeed if I follow their example of people were poor, held labor jobs money to rent an apartment, put “Education will take you far,” my I am learning to stay flexible, time hard work and perseverance. and traveled by bike or horse. They food on our table, and buy clothes parents have said. management and customer service

teammates had hit. I felt embar- beat each of them. my life was just another one that rassed that I wasn’t even close to During my second season of golf didn’t matter in the world. Until Golf: A Driving Force their scores, even though I was it appeared as if my hard work had golf appeared and I gained two conscious that they had been play- finally paid off. It was starting to attributes: the ability to work hard ing for years while I had only been show. My swing was better than and maintain a positive mindset. My arms were shot. They were playing for three months. But I also ever. The consistency in making When I felt like my homework was heavy and numb. I’d been practicing Xixu Vue knew I stood no chance of ever good contact with the ball was off too hard and that I wouldn’t be able my swing for three hours straight. Harding Senior being in the winner’s circle if I did the charts. My coach was amazed to achieve anything, I pushed myself But I knew it was the only way I High School not elevate my game. at how much I had improved. I was to try harder—just like golf. could improve. After the season ended, I used amazed at myself. My mind erased The ability to work hard and The 18-hole conference tourna- the next year’s tournament as my any trace of last year’s tournament. maintain a positive mindset are two ment at the St. Paul, MN, Highland I mustered up courage to keep my motivation. Every day from June It was set for a rematch at this important attributes in golf -- and National Golf Course -- the most composure and hoped that each to August I disappeared to the year’s tournament. I felt I was ready in life. They both had helped me important match of the whole high shot would be the one I longed driving range and chipping green. I to challenge the other players fairly overcome obstacles in ways I never school season -- had finally ended. for. I was desperate, but by stay- consumed multiple hours crafting now -- and perhaps even place or believed were possible. As I look It was supposed to be a time for ing focused on my passion for the my game together. I would strike win at the upcoming tournament. forward to college, I hope to apply players to shine -- but it certainly game, I was able to keep myself in balls over and over until I could feel What life lesson did I learn these two characteristics to propel hadn’t been for me. Multiple times the right frame of mind. the pain in my shoulders. Even in from all this? Just like golf, I was me further in life. I’m grateful to throughout the match I swung the When my group finished the the rain, if I could not get my shots performing poorly in school. I had the important lesson that golf has ball off course and missed simple round we rushed into the club to improve, I would stay until I got already given up on my grades— taught me: That whatever I do, as putts and chips. I was just ter- house to tally our scorecards. I had it right. I could not stop because I and likely my life. I didn’t care long as I put my mind into it and rible, and it showed. From swing accumulated 134 strokes through couldn’t lose to the other players. about what happened to me, I work hard towards achieving it, I to contact, everything went wrong. 18 holes, about double what my I had to work harder to be able to just wanted to have fun. I thought will succeed.

April 2018 17 COLLEGE ESSAYS

big responsibility on my shoulders. Once my sisters and cousins made There ,in the palm of her hands sat I gave my older brother a snack and their way up, I shouted for my cousin the big piece of bagel that was lodged The Day I Saved My Brother then turned my attention to my to grab water. For a split second I in my brother’s throat moments baby brother for just a second. The remembered what my grandma said ago. I finally took one big relieving moment I diverted my attention back to my mom: “Never drink water if breath after checking the tone of my Flashing in front of me were two to my older brother, I noticed his you feel like food isn’t going down.” brother’s face, let that ball of emotion worlds that would soon come shat- Pa Dee Yang face was desperate for attention and Loudly, I shouted at my cousin to out, and bawled like a baby. tering into millions of pieces at any Harding Senior turning purple. His eyes glistened abandon the water. I noticed my sis- After coming face-to-face with second: mine and his. Even though High School with tears; he was in desperate need ters and cousins were panicking, and the challenge of saving someone so I am younger than my brother, of air. I swiftly ran toward him. I I too was in the mode of a disoriented dear to me, I realized I am confident he depends on me because he is shouted at my sisters and cousins for emotional breakdown. However, as working my way through decisions disabled. Back in Thailand when my My brother was born a healthy baby, help, while I made my way behind my the oldest one there, I had to hold under pressure. In the future, when brother was still just a couple months but, after receiving bad care from the brother. I lifted him with all my might back from letting my emotions loose I’m in college or at my professional old, he became really ill. Clueless, my physician, he was left permanently and settled him onto my lap. All I and focus on keeping everyone from job or with my friends and family, I parents suggested they should take physically and mentally disabled and could think was to do the Heimlich panicking. My emotional distress was know I can tame challenges when my brother to the hospital, hoping part of his life was taken away. maneuver, which I learned from high. It was between life and death. I’m faced with them. Because of the doctors could help save their child. At the age of 16, I was chosen to watching YouTube videos. I didn’t Without pausing to catch my experience I had, I know I can rely on Unfortunately, taking my brother be in charge of nine kids while my know if I was doing it correctly, if I breath due to exhaustion I contin- my instinct when making decisions to the hospital was a big mistake. parents were out of the house. The would injure him internally, or if I ued to perform the technique. It for myself or for others. The situation Back then, physicians lacked the kids ranged in age from my young- was wasting time. seemed endless. Surprisingly my helped naturally unfold my individual skills to distinguish the difference est brother who was 9 months old My older, disabled brother sister shouted, “He got it out!” with independent strength in self-trust to between what kinds of medications to my older brother who was 19. I depends on me to take care of him, strands of tears streaming down her build a bridge between my goals and and shots were for infants and adults. felt a lot of pressure because of the and I had failed him. cheeks alongside my brother, too. my motivation.

the street. I listened intently as my about my future. pictures at prom, homecoming and mom answered every question the Therapy sessions were a huge sporting events. I worked, I saved Opening Up to Therapy psychologist asked. struggle for me. They eventually were and I purchased my first camera, “Do you want help?” I wanted to easier, and I learned a lot about com- then started earning money from my say “no.” “Do you need help?” I knew municating, managing stress, anxiety hobby, a great achievement at 16. The door to the doctor’s office creeks I needed help but did i want it? and thinking positive. My psycholo- More important, photography was open slowly. A thin Indian woman sits Ta’Vasia “Do you see yourself in the gist challenged me to speak out my the passion I needed. It gave me hope. down next to me. She’s a psycholo- Johnson future?” I never knew the answer thoughts and find a hobby. I became Therapy and photography Harding Senior gist. Concerned, she drowns me with to that question since I thought passionate about photography. have changed my life. Learning to High School questions. suicide was my only answer to every Photography has helped me communicate and express myself, “Have you experienced any problem. express my mental illness as an art manage stress and anxiety, and to suicidal thoughts in the past month? Overwhelmed, I only felt numb- Looking back, I’d been angry, ner- form. I focus on facial expressions think positive helped me improve my Any safety concerns? How are you ness. I was speechless. I couldn’t vous, doubtful, quiet and at that very to symbolize my experience, pain grades and gain new friends. As I steer right now? What are you thinking feel the tears pouring from my moment confused. I was fourteen and suffering, or to capture smiles myself toward college, I now know right now? Do you see yourself in the eyes until she suggested I take a years old and stubborn. I wasn’t going that expose great energy. Holding a to use my time, knowledge and other future? Headaches? Crying? Does tissue. I couldn’t look at her nor my to cry, show emotion or even talk. To camera and looking through a lens resources wisely. I focus on hard work your mom think you need help? Do mom, but their eyes were beam- this day, though, a snapshot of that takes me to a happier world. and positive outcomes. I understand you want help? Do you think you need ing on me. I couldn’t pull my eyes same tree appears in my head and At school, teachers call me “The the importance of my future and help?” off the snow-covered tree across distracts me from negative thoughts Camera Girl.” I volunteered to take education. I’m ready to succeed.

misanthropy. Driven by his hatred, us box. This was my first fight. hope my story and experiences can Saw Dae planted a landmine on the I had my head down during the bring inspiration to others. I want The Fight to Succeed path where my dad walked every first round and was scared to fight to help those who need assistance evening back to his bunker. After back. Before the second and last by going into the medical field. my father was done patrolling the round, my father told me, “The Through determination and per- The first fight of my life was in the base, without any awareness of Saw only way to get through the most sistently pursuing my dream, I’ve forest of my Thai refugee camp. It Yar Shay Dae’s nefarious plotting, my father difficult moment of your life is to been able to apply countless lessons was hot, so hot, and we battled for Harding Senior stepped on that landmine. His leg lift your head up and fight your way from my father. I am grateful for three minutes in the first round of High School was gone. through.” I took my father’s advice him passing his knowledge on to our bout. Countless punches struck A few years later, when I was 6 and fought better in the second half me. I learned how to be indepen- my stomach. My father sat under years old, on a sunny day while we with my head up. dent, self-sufficient and that I can the tree and watched. through intense days as gue- were in a Thai refugee camp, my It took me six years to under- overcome any hardship. My fight My father severed his leg when rilla fighters. After years serving father took three of my friends and stand my father’s actions and words with Koke is not the last battle I he was in the Karen military in Karen National Union, my father me hunting. During the hunt, my meant. My father wants me to will have in my life, and my father’s Thailand. He and his friend, Saw was promoted to sergeant. Saw father wanted to teach my friend depend on myself, create my own lessons will help lift my head and Dae, relied on each other to get Dae was filled with jealousy and Koke and me a lesson by having path, and focus on my dream. I overcome them all.

18 threesixtyjournalism.org In 2016, ThreeSixty Journalism students profiled a handful of “Changemakers.” We defined them as people making the Twin Cities a better place for young individuals. In this issue, the Changemakers are back. On the following pages, you will find compelling profile stories about people who are inspiring positive change throughout the Twin Cities and beyond. Carlson blazes trails for other women how powerful we are when we start saying, ‘Me too.’” Former Fox News host broke barriers Carlson and Fox settled for $20 when she went public with her story million in September 2016. Ailes resigned as Fox chairman and CEO of sexual harassment in the workplace before passing away last year. In a January interview, Carlson said society has not yet made The night before Gretchen Carlson enough progress in dealing with came forward with her story in 2016, Talia Bradley sexual harassment. she told her 11- and 13-year old chil- Active Life “I really feel like you can’t put dren what was about to happen. Senior Reporter the genie back in the bottle now,” “My career was going to be ended Carlson said. “There are so many for me, and it wouldn’t be my stories and revelations that the choice,” said Carlson, a former Fox voice in the push to end workplace American public is really just fed up News host and a Minnesota native. harassment. She’s written a book on with it and I think that is why they “It was just a small circle of ending workplace harassment and keep talking about it months and people [who] were aware of what I started her own leadership training months after. had been going through and what I to empower victims. “I may have started the motion was about to do,” she added. “I could never have predicted we but I hope it trickles down to com- The next day, she went public would be in this tsunami right now munities and people feel comfort- with her story, alleging in a lawsuit when I decided to come forward able speaking out.” that Fox chairman and CEO Roger with my story, and I feel like giving Since Carlson came forward, Ailes had sexually harassed her and the gift of courage is contagious and other women have come forward fired her for complaining about we see it happening one woman at with their stories of sexual harass- sexual harassment in the workplace. a time,” Carlson said. “Collectively ment, too, bringing down the likes

PHOTO COURTESY OF GRETCHEN CARLSON OF GRETCHEN COURTESY PHOTO She had no idea the tidal wave she we are realizing we have this of Harvey Weinstein, Bill O’Reilly Former Fox News host Gretchen Carlson, an outspoken advocate for women was helping unleash. incredibly strong voice when we and Roy Moore. who face sexual harassment in the workplace, has become one of the leaders Since then, Carlson has played stand together and say something. Carlson said she was shocked by of the “#MeToo” movement. Carlson settled with Fox for $20 million in 2016 a leading role in the “#MeToo” So sometimes it takes one or two the number of people who spoke after suing former chairman Roger Ailes for sexual harassment. movement and been a leading people to start the wave, but look at CARLSON continued on page 30

April 2018 19 Changing the world, she says in her Dream Refugee story. In 2002, her mother died from a life-threatening disease. Seven years one refugee story later, her father moved her and three of her siblings to a refugee camp in Burma to live with her at a time aunt. She later came to the United States and landed in Minnesota on her 11th birthday (March 9, 2011). Paw is determined to go to col- Mohamed Malim is reshaping the lege, she said, and her top choices refugee narrative in Minnesota. are Bethel University, Augsburg University and the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. Mohamed Malim understands “My brother just went back to what it means to be a refugee. Burma last month and he brought In the 1990s, Malim and his Ba Po back all these photos of our village family fled from Somalia because of Voices and you just see these kids, and they the civil war. They eventually landed Writer need better opportunities,” Paw said. in Minnesota. “They need a chance, and I’m like, I Now a senior at the University have to do something for them. I have of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Malim is stories.” to go to college, get a good job and go helping reshape the narrative about The mission of the nonprofit is back there to see what I can do. They refugees in Minnesota. to connect refugees to other com- motivate me to do better.” Last year, Malim founded munities in Minnesota through Malim says connecting refugees Dream Refugee, a nonprofit that the power of storytelling. Dream with non-refugees is important. connects refugees to the broader Refugee has a mentorship program “That breaks the stereotypes,” community and shares their and also highlights local refugees’ BA PO/THREESIXTY JOURNALISM he said. stories. He started the nonprofit stories on its website. Mohamed Malim, a senior at the University of St. Thomas, is the founder of after seeing negative portrayals of Abdirahman Mohamed is one Dream Refugee, a nonprofit that connects refugees to the broader community ‘CHANGE THE WORLD’ and highlights their stories. Malim is a Somali refugee. refugees in the media. of more than a dozen refugees the Malim lived in a refugee camp in “It’s very important because nonprofit has highlighted. A Somalia has highlighted Ka Vang. As a child, where their story ends.” Kenya as a child. He recalls in his there’s a lot of hate toward our native, Mohamed fled in 2006 due Vang and her family lived in appall- own Dream Refugee story that, refugees throughout the nation,” to the civil war and eventually ing conditions in a Thailand refugee CONNECTING REFUGEES at age 3, he realized “that when it said Malim, who lived came to Minneapolis. camp before gaining admission to Dream Refugee’s mentorship pro- comes to war, mercy doesn’t exist.” in a Kenyan refugee He now attends the U.S. in 1980. Now, she’s the gram aims to help refugee students When he came to Minnesota, he camp as a child. “... Concordia University director of impact and community gain access to professional mentors, went to school at a Somali charter It’s my job and it’s my CHANGEMAKERS in St. Paul and is in engagement at American Public scholarships and networking oppor- school until eighth grade and then duty to tell my story the U.S. Army. Media, as well as a writer, poet and tunities so they can become more attended and graduated from and my other refugees’ Dream Refugee also social justice activist. successful in their high school years Edina High School. He’s studying Halima Aden is another example. and in college. marketing and marketing manage- Aden is a 20-year-old internation- Tu Lor Eh Paw is the first ment at St. Thomas and preparing ally-known Somali model who mentee in the program. Paw, who to graduate in May. has challenged traditional beauty is Karen, came to the United States In addition to Dream Refugee, stereotypes. She became the first as a Burmese refugee seven years Malim also has started Epimonia, model in a hijab and burkini to ago and is now a senior at St. Paul an apparel company that gives a compete in the Miss Minnesota USA Como Park High School. The pro- percentage of its profits to organiza- contest in 2016. Since then, she has gram connected Paw with a mentor, tions that support refugees. modeled for Nike and been on the Diana Chaman, who is helping her Dream Refugee recently received cover of Vogue magazine. with the college process, she said. a 2018 Minnesota Campus Compact “It’s our job not to forget those “Not only do they give me this award. Many refugees don’t share kids who are still living in refugee mentor,” Paw said, “but they give their stories, Malim said, but Dream camps but to go back and show me this really good friend who’s Refugee provides a platform for them it’s okay to be a refugee,” always there for me. Someone to call these stories. Aden says in her Dream Refugee when I need help with anything. … “If I could change a mind [with] story. “They need to know you can She’s really helping me in getting my these stories, I accomplished my still do amazing things. A lot of higher education that I need to get.” goal,” Malim said. “It motivates and

BA PO/THREESIXTY JOURNALISM people are scared to tell that side of Paw is the youngest of nine chil- inspires me to wake up every morn- Tu Lor Eh Paw, a senior at St. Paul Como Park High School, is the first mentee their story because of the stigma, dren and grew up in a small village ing and go out there and change the in the Dream Refugee mentorship program. Paw immigrated from Burma but you have to talk about it. Other in Burma (now called Myanmar) world.” (now Myanmar). kids have to see that that’s not where her family farmed for a living,

20 threesixtyjournalism.org and made history. “I’m glad she did it,” Sandi said. ‘Dreaming The Miss Minnesota USA pageant is competitive and not everyone without limits’ makes the cut. Only 15 of the 50 contestants make it to the top of the competition. After the cuts, Mikayla was backstage, comforting the girls How a young woman with who didn’t make it, telling them Down syndrome made history they were beautiful and encouraging them, her mom said. in the Miss Minnesota USA competition Mikayla did win two awards at the pageant. The first was the Spirit of Miss USA Award. When she was Mikayla Holmgren believes in presented with this award, her “dreaming without limits,” and Pay Poe mother said, people were in tears that’s exactly what she’s doing. Culture and excited for Mikayla. She also Holmgren, 23, of Stillwater, made Reporter won the Director’s Award, which national headlines earlier this year was another surprise. after becoming the first person with Anna Korger, Mikayla’s close Down syndrome to compete in the a sophomore at Bethel University friend and one of her “go-to” Miss Minnesota USA contest. She who’s studying art education. people, met at the pageant. Korger didn’t win the pageant, but still Down syndrome is a genetic was inspired by Mikayla’s ambition, went home with two awards and disorder affecting a person’s she said. inspired many. chromosomes. Common symptoms They also both attend Bethel “Ever since she was born in the include distinctive facial features, University, and after the pag- NICU, she’s had this determina- low muscle tone and cognitive eant, they would meet up on tion,” said Holmgren’s mother, impairment. Wednesdays and practice walking Sandi. “She has that attitude that’s As a child, Mikayla was almost in heels. Korger said she admires she’s going to achieve above what nonverbal, according to Sandi. It that Mikayla is the first woman PHOTO COURTESY OF FUTURE PRODUCTIONS, LLC OF FUTURE PRODUCTIONS, COURTESY PHOTO they say she’s going to achieve.” was hard for her to fully understand Mikayla Holmgren, a 23-year-old Bethel University, became the first person with Down syndrome to com- Mikayla is passionate about what was going on, which made it with Down syndrome to compete in the Miss Minnesota USA contest in pete in the state pageant, a huge supporting people with disabilities challenging for people to commu- November. Holmgren, shown with 2017 Miss Minnesota USA winner Meridith accomplishment. who want to do art or dancing, she nicate with her, she said. Mikayla Gould, won two awards during the competition. “The biggest accomplishment said. She showcased both of these would get frustrated easily. for her is that she makes such a big passions in the pageant Dancing, however, dance after reading an article about When Mikayla was interested in impact on society through being in November. became a big part of how dance can be good for kids with applying for Miss Minnesota USA, herself,” Korger said. “I like doing art with Mikayla’s childhood. special needs. her family didn’t initially think she After the pageant, Mikayla has [kids] and teach- CHANGEMAKERS She started when she As time passed, Mikayla ended up would make it, Sandi said. However, continued pursuing her goal to start ing kids how to do was 6 years old. Sandi loving dance. “I like to dance,” she in order to satisfy Mikayla, her mom a dance studio to support people art,” said Holmgren, signed her up for said, “and I love music.” went online and applied, noting that with disabilities to be creative and As she grew older, Mikayla Mikayla has Down syndrome and enjoy life. She is working with state opened up more through activities thinking they wouldn’t hear back. agencies to try to get a grant to start such as dance. She represented But they did. her studio. She wants others to Minnesota in the Junior Miss The family wasn’t prepared for dream big, she said. Amazing pageant in 2015 in Los the next steps, but with the help “Just because you have a dis- Angeles and danced during the and encouragement of others, ability doesn’t mean that you can’t talent portion. Mikayla competed at the pageant achieve what you want,” Sandi said. Mikayla also was nominated for Miss Congeniality in the first-ever Global Beauty Awards in March in “The biggest accomplishment for her is Seattle. She’s the only nominee with Down syndrome. As of February, that she makes such a big impact on society Mikayla planned to wear a custom- designed black dress. through being herself.” Her inspiring story continues. “I inspire people when I smile —Anna Korger, Miss Minnesota USA contestant and bring them joy,” Mikayla said, and Mikayla Holmgren’s friend. “and just brighten someone’s day.” Mikayla Holmgren

April 2018 21 they’re there to solve problems and help people get out of crisis,” Changing the said Vuelo. Dayton’s appointment of face of justice Minnesota’s first Hmong judge supported his efforts to increase diversity and inclusion in the state’s workforce, specifically in Sophia Vuelo Appointed First his judicial appointments. He Hmong-American Judge in Minnesota also appointed the first Native American woman, African- American woman and openly gay justice to the Minnesota Supreme On Nov. 30 last year, Gov. Mark Court. Dayton appointed Sophia Vuelo as Samantha In a recent ThreeSixty Magazine a district court judge in the second HoangLong feature on him, Dayton said, “In ThreeSixty judicial district of Minnesota. district court, people say, when Scholar Vuelo, a native of Eau Claire, somebody walks into a courtroom, Wis., was officially sworn in Dec. they look around [and say], ‘Is 18, becoming the first Hmong- fun and exciting than I could ever there anybody that looks like me?’ American judge in Minnesota. anticipate, and I’ve enjoyed every And if you’re a minority and every- “I’ve really considered myself day that I’ve been on the bench,” body else there is white, right away a judge, first and foremost,” said said Vuelo. you’re thinking, ‘I’m not gonna get Vuelo. “And then I happen to be a Vuelo’s legal experience a fair shake here.’” judge of Hmong descent.” indicates she’s well suited for the In April of 2016, Star Tribune Judge Sophia Vuelo As a district court judge, Vuelo job. She was a special assistant reported that nearly 37 percent oversees a wide range of cases, Ramsey County attorney, assistant of the state’s prison population is including criminal, public defender for Charities. She has experience as a to juvenile protection, family and black -- despite only making up 6 family law, family the second judicial former prosecutor and as a crimi- criminal matters. percent of the state’s population. custody, and child district, assistant nal defense attorney. “Having done three substantive “If it’s brown families and black protection cases, plus CHANGEMAKERS Rochester city attor- Her civil experience comes from areas of law, it gave me tremen- families that are coming into the traffic offenses. ney, and managing her solo practice at Vuelo Law, dous insight and ability to be able legal system at a greater percent- “It’s been more attorney for Catholic where she worked on cases related to understand the law substan- age than your average Minnesotan, tively as well as how we do things our legal system absolutely needs here in Ramsey County Court,” to reflect the lives and experiences said Vuelo. of people who are coming before Vuelo applied three times before the court,” said Vuelo. “That is receiving district judge appoint- how we ensure that we are doing ment, which she says is typical. justice.” She believes it was “both the depth Vuelo said that diversity is and breadth of” her legal experi- more than just a good thing. It is a ence and her life experience that necessity to ensure “we are doing led her to achieving her goal. the work that our constitution “Ms. Sophia Vuelo has dedicated intended for us to do, which is to her career to pursuing justice for treat everyone equal under the law. all Minnesotans, through her work “I’ve always said that eradicat- with Minnesota courts, charities ing sexism and eradicating racism and in her own private practice,” has to be intentional, otherwise it said Dayton said in a press release. doesn’t just go away on its own,” “Ms. Vuelo’s commitment to said Vuelo. “When Governor Mark public service has prepared her Dayton appointed me, he literally well for this important new role.” changed the face of justice. My Vuelo recognizes the role of hope is that our bench will con- a judge in society as broad and tinue to reflect all of the lives who significant. live in our communities. My hope “It’s important to have judges is that our legal system can gain who understand the community greater confidence and belief from who are going to be thoughtful and our community.” patient, willing to listen, because

22 threesixtyjournalism.org Focus on ty . . ix . S e e r

h T St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter St. Paul’s first African-American mayor is a hometown kid who hopes to create lasting change

St. Paul runs in Melvin Carter III’s family. He’s a fourth-generation St. Paul Katelyn Vue News Senior resident and graduate of St. Paul Reporter Central High School. His grandfather was a longtime janitor at St. Paul OF BENNY MORENO COURTESY PHOTO Humboldt High School. His mother is Melvin Carter III, a fourth-generation St. Paul resident, was elected in November as St. Paul’s first black mayor. Carter, a Ramsey County Commissioner and former teacher. His father is a retired a St. Paul Central graduate, is a former city council member. St. Paul police officer. Now Carter, 39, is St. Paul’s first mayor of color and one of the youngest poured a lot into me, which is why president at the time is actually since the Minnesota capital’s founding in 1854. I came straight back after college. currently the mayor of that city, THE CARTER III FILE In the November mayoral election, Carter won by a landslide, defeating his And it was an illustrative experience Tallahassee, and he’s running for opponents by earning more than 50 percent of the vote on election night. He in how far we have to go toward governor in Florida right now. P Name: Melvin Carter III P Age: 39 previously served as a St. Paul City Council member from 2008 to 2013, as this promise in building a city that There’s a lot of those kind of young P Occupation: Mayor of St. Paul director of the Minnesota Office of Early Learning and as executive director works for everyone. folks who came up in that same era P Career highlights: Elected as of the Minnesota Children’s Cabinet, advising Governor Mark Dayton. who are just committed to service first African-American mayor During college at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, Carter’s passion Q: Was it always your dream to in different ways across the country. of St. Paul in 2017 ... Served as St. Paul City Council member for civic engagement began when his brother-in-law was turned away from become mayor? from 2008 to 2013 ... Worked Florida voting polls in the 2000 Presidential Election. A: No. I ran track. I went to college Q: What does it mean to you to be as former director of Minnesota Since then, Carter has focused on strengthening equity, innovation and on a track and field scholarship, and the first black mayor of St. Paul? Office of Early Learning and resilience in St. Paul. Two of Carter’s early initiatives as mayor include rais- Plan A was to go to the Olympics, And also, you’re 39. How do you executive director of Minnesota Children’s Cabinet ... Former high ing the minimum wage to $15 per hour and creating a $50 college savings and I think Plan B was to just go to think being a young person of color school track and field standout. account for every child born in St. Paul. the World Championships, and it is going to impact your time in P Find him on Twitter at I spoke to Carter in January, after he’d given a speech at the University of went down from there. office? @mayorcarter3 and St. Thomas, about his upbringing, his vision for St. Paul, how young people But as I really got involved as a A: In every way. We talk a lot about @melvincarter3, and on can play a role in his vision and more. college student I got really involved building a city that works for all of Instagram at @mwcarter3. in social kind of stuff, like com- us, and in the Twin Cities metro Q: I heard you were from literally every munity activism. I went to college area, and in Minnesota in general ... community, it informs my ability a student at St. Paul direction, and in a in the capital city of Florida and we face some of the worst dispari- to see promise and potential where Central High School CHANGEMAKERS community where I during Election 2000, which was my ties in the nation. And so often, we other people might see problems and your grandfa- would hear stories first chance to vote in a presidential talk about that as it’s coincidental to and challenges, and it probably ther was a janitor at about old Rondo [a election, we ended up kind of in the the fact that no person of color has informs other people’s perspective Humboldt High School. neighborhood in St. middle of something of a constitu- ever held our city’s top office. Our of me, for better and for worse. What was it like growing up in Paul], where our historic African- tional crisis of democracy. focus is that true representation is St. Paul? American community was destroyed … We went to vote in Florida and bringing just not my voice and my Q: What are some major challenges A: It was a unique experience. I love to build a freeway. my brother-in-law, who I was living experience, which is different than you face as mayor and how do you this city, and in many ways, I grew I was in a community where my with at the time, got turned away anyone who’s ever held that office, plan to overcome those? up in our schools, our recreation father is a retired St. Paul police from the polls. We found out later but bringing yours as well. I can’t A: This is a big city and I really think centers, our libraries, just kind of officer, so we’d go watch the Super that hundreds of our classmates had bring yours, which is why we’re so there’s an incredible set of oppor- as a community child. We have a Bowl or go watch the big boxing gotten turned away from the polls. focused on this Serve St. Paul initia- tunities in front of St. Paul right saying, and in the African-American match with police officers – and I The Florida recount ended up being tive. We’re asking people to come now. There’s also an incredible set community in particular, that grew up getting pulled over by some in the Supreme Court and we found do the work with us, and say we of challenges, and as we build this it takes a whole community to of those same police officers when ourselves at the center of it. have to build this city together. It’s kind of big vision for the city and raise a child, and I always felt like I turned 16 and started driving At that time, as a student, a lot just not the job of the mayor, it’s all work around big things like putting that child. I was simultaneously around our community. In many of us really committed ourselves of our job to build this city together. $50 away for college for every child surrounded by caring adults who ways, it was a beautiful childhood to changing the world. The student It informs my perspective on the born in our city, we also have to just poured a whole lot into me in this city, and this is the city that who was our student government city, it informs the way I look at our CARTER continued on page 27

April 2018 23 Focus on ty . . ix . S e e r THE FREY FILE h T Minneapolis P Name: Jacob Frey P Age: 36 P Occupation: Mayor of Minneapolis Mayor P Career highlights: Elected as mayor of Minneapolis in 2017... Elected as Minneapolis City Council member in 2013… Finished fourth in PanAm Games Jacob Frey marathon in 2007… Moved to Minneapolis after running Twin Frey’s running career has shaped Cities Marathon. P Find him on Twitter at his experience as a politician @Jacob_Frey and on Instagram at @jacobfrey1. More than a decade ago, Jacob Frey was a young law student run- Talia Bradley a broad spectrum and I think people ning through Minneapolis during Active Life need to be involved. the Twin Cities Marathon. It was Senior Reporter I think it’s the community that his first experience in the city. drives the decision as to whether Now, Frey, 36, is running the city a government is more accessible of Minneapolis in a new way: as its newest mayor—and also one of to young people, and more than its youngest. 50 percent of the population in A Virginia native and an avid runner, Frey was elected in November 2017 the Twin Cities is younger than and was sworn into office in January 2018. The Democratic-Farmer-Labor me right now. I believe in doing candidate defeated incumbent mayor Betsy Hodges and more than a dozen affirmative outreach to young other candidates on election night. people. It’s the same as if you are Before becoming mayor, Frey was a Minneapolis City Council member FREY. OF OFFICE JACOB COURTESY PHOTO doing affirmative outreach to com- Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, 36, is the city’s second-youngest mayor. The for the Third Ward. Prior to that, he worked as a civil rights attorney and munities of color and to impacted former city council member’s first experience with Minneapolis came during became a social justice advocate in the Twin Cities. a Twin Cities marathon more than a decade ago. neighborhoods. Frey has enjoyed running since he was young and ran professionally while We talk a lot about listening he was in law school at Villanova. During the Twin Cities Marathon, he quali- work in the community. you know, it used to be the case that rather than talking. Listening is fied to compete on Team USA in the 2007 Pan American Games marathon, in it was difficult to get a 100 young really important, but it’s also impor- which he finished fourth. Running has steered his career as a politician, he says, Q: I heard your first experience with people to [be politically active], tant that the engagement we do is providing him with a mentality of hard work leading to success. Minnesota was during a marathon. but we have seen that 20 of them not fake. If it happens early enough One of the first things Frey plans to tackle as mayor is affordable housing Can you tell me more about that? can change the whole freaking in the process and it’s real and gen- in Minneapolis, he says. His priorities also include fighting segregation, A: I came to the Twin Cities and world. We’ve seen it time and time uine, then that engagement actually improving the local economy and repairing the relationship between police actually stayed in a hotel in St. Paul and time again throughout history. can be incorporated into a policy and the Minneapolis community. to run the Twin Cities Marathon. There are plenty of people who said that is passed. I think that’s where In January, I sat down with Frey to interview him about his goals, his I remember thinking, “This is a that [St. Paul] Mayor [Melvin] we’ve been lacking in Minneapolis. experience with Minneapolis and about how young people can play a role in pretty spectacular city.” They call it Carter and myself were too young Minneapolis has done a lot of out- his vision for the city. the most beautiful urban marathon to be mayor. I don’t think they have reach and engagement. Oftentimes in the country, and it really is. It is that mentality anymore. the engagement, especially with Q: Growing up as a better and better very much a city within the park. communities of color, is tokenized teenager in Virginia, and better. If you So when I was looking around for Q: How can local politics become or fake, and I want to make sure did you ever imagine CHANGEMAKERS work harder than the jobs following graduation from law even more accessible to young that if we’re doing outreach it is real becoming a mayor? person standing next school, along with looking at some people? and genuine. A: As a teenager, my to you on the starting of your typical East Coast firms, I A: In terms of how they get involved, passion was distance line, you are probably looked in Minneapolis and I got a I think there’s broad scope ... . Yes, Q: One of my peers recently inter- running. I was a track and field going to beat them. But that isn’t the job. I moved on out here. it’s running for office, but it’s not just viewed Minneapolis Police Chief athlete in high school and got a case in larger society. It varies on running for office. I mean we need Medaria Arradondo. One of his scholarship to attend the College of how you grow up, who your parents Q: What is your vision for the city young people who are running with priorities is improving the com- William and Mary, so no, it wasn’t are, what side of the tracks you grew of Minneapolis, and how can young great ideas to become entrepreneurs munity’s trust in the police force. In like a political aspiration. up on, which in many instances people play a role in that vision? and CEOs of the next Medtronic. We your opinion, what needs to happen My running career brought me a determines your outcome in life. A: Not only can they play a role, need young people to be activists in for that to improve? mentality and a connection between Seeing that direct correlation that they’re going to be absolutely the community and working around A: I’ll say that Chief Arradondo hard work and success. The brilliant I saw in running is something that critical to it. I hear a lot of people important social justice issues like is an exceptional leader. We are thing that I loved so much about drives me. So did I know I was going talk about all our young people affordable housing and police- united in the mentality that there running is there is this direct cor- to be mayor? No, I didn’t even know don’t vote, young people don’t get community relations. We need young needs to be a shift in the way relation between hard work and I would end up in Minneapolis, but involved, young people, blah, blah, people to be police officers and public the work is done in our police success. If you work hard, you get there has always been a drive to blah, blah, blah. And I went, wow, servants and work at the city. There’s FREY continued on page 31

24 threesixtyjournalism.org critiquing masterclasses, the Imani Winds continues to share its pas- sion with others. The group spent part of its visit to Minnesota with band students at St. Paul Central High School. “Outreach is something that we’re really intensely passionate about because we all grew up in the public-school system,” Dover said, “and none of us would be where we were if it weren’t for those public music programs.” In 2008, the Imani Winds started the Legacy Commissioning Project, in which the group commissions and premieres new works by composers from diverse musi- cal backgrounds. It also holds the annual Imani Winds Chamber Music Festival, a 10-day intensive summer program that includes masterclasses, coaching, workshops and more at the Manhattan School of Music in New York City. Through 2018, the group also is the University of Chicago’s Don Michael Randel Ensemble-in- Residence. As part of the residency, PHOTO COURTESY OF IMANI WINDS COURTESY PHOTO the Imani Winds collaborates with Grammy-award winning wind quintet Imani Winds has carved out a unique lane in classical music with its diverse sounds and perspectives. The group has four albums. students and the music department and features world premieres at the (flute and composer) Thomas in St. Paul. university, according to the group’s and Mark Dover “Two years ago we website. Shaking up (clarinet), who CHANGEMAKERS had them here, and Still, they say performing on became the newest people were weeping stage together is the best part about member after joining in the audience,” said being a member of the ensemble. classical music in 2015. Sarah Schmalenberger, Even after thousands of perfor- The group has released four an associate music professor at St. mances over two decades, they still albums, including the Grammy- Thomas who invited the award- get nerves – and it wasn’t any differ- Grammy-nominated Imani Winds nominated “The Classical winning group to return to perform ent when they took the stage at the Underground,” and has toured all and teach at the‌ Upper Midwest O’Shaughnessy Educational Center highlights diverse sounds, perspectives over the world since its founding Chamber Winds Symposium at St. at St. Thomas in the fall. 20 years ago. The Imani Winds Thomas. “The day of the concert I usually has performed in places such as She added: “This is the best musi- like to have pretty much nothing When members of the Imani Winds New Zealand, Brazil, Paris and cal ensemble that has ever been on else going on,” Dover said. “I really learned they were nominated for a Katelyn Vue China. this campus.” want to just relax, so I’ll watch a 2006 Grammy Award, they couldn’t News Senior One of the draws of the ensemble They’re not just musicians. movie or just call my wife, because contain their excitement. Reporter is its unique ability to combine They’re also teachers. From per- you know, I usually get quite “I think the first thing I did was diverse sounds, including African, forming at elementary schools and nervous.” call Valerie and we screamed in each Latin American and American other’s ears,” said Toyin Spellman- 2006, but their proven success has influences. Diaz, an oboist for the wind quintet, made them a highly sought-after “We felt like … it was time for a “We felt like ... it was time referencing flutist and composer wind quintet that not only repre- change to come to what was called Valerie Coleman. “It’s just a valida- sents diversity in classical music, quote-unquote classical musical,” for a change to come to what was called tion of all the work you’ve been but that also gives back through Spellman-Diaz said. “And it was putting into this ensemble and into teaching. time for it to expand in a new way, quote-unquote classical music.” your life, so that was great.” Members of the Imani Winds and so we thought we could have a A highlight, they say, was walking are Jeff Scott (french horn and say in that.” —Toyin Spellman-Diaz, oboist in Imani Winds past fellow Grammy-nominated composer), Monica Ellis (bassoon), In November, the Imani Winds artist Beyoncé. They didn’t win in Spellman-Diaz (oboe), Coleman made a stop at the University of St.

April 2018 25 SOMALIA from page 7 support, and I think that that hit me the which provides free medical assistance for most,” Aguilar said. “I think about my little people in need in Somalia. Many of the brother, about how he would be if he didn’t surviving victims of the attack lack access to have my mom. I think that was the best expe- healthcare, Abdi said. rience overall in the trip.” Abdi also hopes to prepare the Minnesota Aguilar’s experience at the orphanage community for whatever challenges lie changed her perspective. Now she wants to ahead. She is working alongside the same go on more service trips. group to develop a youth community center “I’m not going through hard times, but where young people can find a foundation there are people who are,” Aguilar said. “If for success. they need help and you have the opportunity The mission to empower is not over. to help them, why not go out and do it?” It has only just begun, with those rows of Cristo Rey senior Jennifer Roldan also teenagers and young adults moving forward went on the trip. It was Roldan’s first time in the world, inspired and eager for change. CHILDREN TO OF PATHWAYS COURTESY PHOTO out of the country, and she was welcomed Grace Strangis (top row, fourth from left) and students who went on the Bogota trip pose for with open arms by her Colombian partner. a picture after a visit to an orphanage. The group spent a week in Bogota building and painting She initially felt apprehensive and uncomfort- homes for families. able when her partner’s group was leading COLOMBIA from page 12 She was raised mostly by her brothers and an icebreaker by dancing. But she shed her people can truly be fulfilled in their lives.” sisters – just like the people she is serving inhibitions and joined in the fun. Pathways this past year helped provide now around the world. Living on the farm, “It’s a lot of dancing and singing and not healthcare and education to 250 impov- Strangis learned to be independent and cre- really caring and being free,” Roldan said. “I erished children in Kolkata, India. It has ative and to think for herself, she said. let my spirit run free in Colombia.” created job opportunities and offered free “I daydreamed of traveling the world and Roldan’s intent before traveling to Bogota healthcare to illiterate mothers. It’s also given meeting people from all over the world and was to serve the families, children and the 309 children the opportunity to attend school helping people,” Strangis said. elderly, but she felt different about the expe- in Bellisa, Ethiopia. Amy Aguilar, an 18-year-old senior at rience when she got back home. Strangis also has started “Home of Grace,” Cristo Rey, also went on the trip last fall to “I thought that we were going to do the an orphanage and school in Kerala, India. Bogota. On top of helping to build a home, serving,” Roldan said. “But they ended up Pathways is funded by a variety of corpo- she and other students spent a day at an serving us.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF KENDY SUNDVALL OF KENDY COURTESY PHOTO rate and other sponsors. orphanage. They read books and drew with Merchandise in protest of the Mogadishu The youngest of 12 siblings, Strangis the children. Editor’s Note: Jose Galvan Castro attended the bombing was sold at the event. grew up on a small farm in Minnesota. “I think that they just need love and Pathways to Children trip to Colombia.

SERVICE from page 12 In the winter, students without If students are interested in help- physical space and securing funding. enough money to purchase winter ing their own communities, they The food shelf received $1,000 in gear could get coats, hats and socks should start with a specific problem, startup funding in May 2012 as part from the food shelf. It also benefits according to Roseville AVID teacher of a school competition sponsored students facing difficulties caused Kerri Werner. A small idea can make by the Greater Twin Cities United by a lack of transportation, senior a big difference. Way and Ashoka’s Youth Venture. Ba Po said. In her family, her dad “An important part of AVID The physical work took place from and older sister are the only people has always been doing commu- June 2012 to September 2012 who drive. nity service,” she said. But service — stocking the shelves, cleaning the “Winter time is really tough,” Po learning projects can be much more space and painting the walls. said. “Sometimes my dad will be sick meaningful because students find After the students finished the and sometimes my older sister goes issues in the community on their physical work, it was time to solicit to work, and then my mom and the own, have responsibility over them donations. Slowly but surely, the rest of us don’t know how to drive. and make connections, she said. items for the food shelf started roll- It’s hard to go buy food and some- The projects can also help stu- ing in. A salon donated backpacks. times we don’t have the money.” dents be more aware of the issues A woman donated toiletries. Love The food shelf is not the only impacting their communities, INC, the National Guard, Keystone service learning project that Roseville Werner said. Community Services and other students have completed. For “[They develop] awareness of organizations also helped to fill the instance, other students created an what’s going on in the community, food shelf, according to Smith. outdoor classroom space from an whether that is a school commu- “It was a really great way for us to existing high school courtyard to help nity or community in Roseville, or connect to the community,” Smith students get outside. Some students even beyond,” Werner said. “They said. “They know what they need to are collecting books and donating gain an awareness of all the issues do, and they want to help.” them to organizations, while others that they are exposed to outside

In September 2012, the shelf are writing encouraging letters to the of their teenage life. It’s amazing SHIMIN ZHANG/THREESIXTY JOURNALISM opened. elderly or injured in hospitals. to watch.” The food shelf has canned goods and other items for students.

26 threesixtyjournalism.org CARTER from page 23 many ways, I’ve heard him say many times, stop to clear the snow when we get 12 inches “I think right now is one of those moments ‘Let’s stop helping kids beat the odds, and in one day, like we did last week. There’s just a start changing the odds.’ So I see those college whole lot to juggle and manage, and the secret where we just don’t have the luxury of waiting, savings accounts as an odd-changing initiative. to success in this role is building a really good team and trusting the team to kind of help do where we have to be engaged and be involved.” Q: How did you react when you found out you the work. I’m actually really excited about the were elected mayor? Describe how you felt in team we’ve got coming together because it’s —St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter that moment. a fantastic group of people who is doing that A: I was with my wife. We had poll watchers work together. to go watch a set of precincts and bring back of young people are going to graduate from suggest that the experiences that a young numbers, and our analysts, our number- Q: How do you envision young people playing this space, brilliant and prepared to make an child has in their first 3-to-5 years of life cruncher folks … came up, and it was just my a role in your vision for the city? impact on some community – I want them create a momentum that is most likely going wife and I, Sakeena, and they came up and let A: Young people oftentimes aren’t specifi- to have an investment in St. Paul, to know to continue throughout the rest of their lives. us know that not only were we in the lead, cally invited in and young people often times that we’re invested in them. And I want them We have a window at a time right there that but that we had really outperformed all of our end up waiting to get engaged, right? We planting their impact on the future right here we can really change the course for children expectations in every part of the city. It was wait till we’re 18 and then we turn 18, and in St. Paul. and families in our community. humbling and overwhelming to not have only then we wait until we get out of college and But we have very, very precious few won, but to have carried the type of margins then we’re out of college, and then we wait Q: You’re working toward raising the minimum public resources committed to that area. We that we did, to have won all over the city in until we’re set in our career, and then we wage to $15 per hour. Why is this important think about our public education system as the way that we did. wait until the kids get out of the house or to you and what can Minnesotans expect something that starts at age 5, right? When I’m a fourth-generation St. Pauler, and our whatever it is, and there’s this perpetual ‘I’m happening in their communities if this goes we know that 95 percent of brain develop- family’s experience and our community’s going-to-get-involved-at-some-point-in-time.’ through? ment occurs before age 5, right? We have to experience with this city, you know, if you The truth is, and I share this with folks at A: We have families who work full-time, who do some really intense investment in young have that long of a relationship, it’s not going the time, is that if you look at any era through- work overtime jobs and are still stuck living children. By saying we’re going to have a $50 to always be positive. And I think in a moment, out history that’s been transformational and in poverty. There’s an author who talks about college savings account, we’re telling every I was thinking about my children and the fact that’s changed the course of this country for families that have too much month at the child born in this city that, ‘We believe in you, that they get to see me lead this city forward. the better – whether it’s civil rights or labor end of their money – as opposed to too much we’re invested in you, and we know that you I was thinking about all of our communities rights, or women’s rights, or whatever it is – if money at the end of the month, there’s too can do great things in the future.’ Planting of color who have felt locked out and kind young people had waited, it wouldn’t have much month at the end of their money. And that seed in their minds is so important for of left out of our city’s prosperity for a long happened. that’s a problem for all of us. the future of our community. time, who we get to do this work with. I was So I think right now is one of those As a community, we spend a lot of time and We’re saying to the parents, ‘You’re not thinking about my parents who have served moments where we just don’t have the luxury we spend a lot of resources managing poverty. here on your own, and we’re going to invest this city, my dad as a police officer, my mom as of waiting, where we have to be engaged And the truth is, our economic development in you and your family,’ which gives them a a teacher, my grandparents – you talked about and be involved. Our focus is on high school conversations, our education conversations, reason to want to plug their child into our my grandfather sweeping floors at Humboldt and on college students. Our focus is on the our public safety conversations, all of our child development infrastructure as a city High School, and losing their houses on old young workforce who is kind of moving into conversations are conversations about trying earlier, so we can start helping and engaging Rondo – and it’s a dream come true. the city. They’re demanding a different kind to manage the impact of the fact that we have that child a lot earlier. ... It’s overwhelming in all the most amaz- of city-building. As we debate over whether so many just deeply poor people in our com- And then beyond that, those low-income ing ways. It’s just the honor of a lifetime that bike lanes are okay and whether transit is okay munity. Right? families I was just talking about, research people in this city would entrust me with and whether ... density is okay, the now 50 In St. Paul, 72 percent of our children in shows that low-income families spend up to such an important role. It’s never lost on me percent of our workforce that is millennials is our public schools qualify for free or reduced 10 percent of their income just on financial the incredible privilege it is to be able to do demanding more bike lanes and more transit. lunch. If children show up to school not services. You can never get out of poverty this job. Or the weight of the responsibility Providing those microphones and those knowing where they’re going to sleep tonight if you bank at pawn shops and same-day because all of the work impacts people. spaces for folks to get engaged and to get or how they’re going to eat tonight, then of lenders. At the same time, through this, One of the challenges is, when I first involved has got to be critical, and so a part of course our social studies scores are going to we’re going to be introducing families all got elected to the city council, I remember our Serve St. Paul work that we’ve launched is fall, our math and reading scores are going to over our city to financial institutions that are thinking on the day of my inauguration, that going to be inviting young people, in particu- fall. And so, our focus is to raise the minimum reasonable, that are responsible and that are I never get to use the word ‘they’ anymore. lar, to serve on the different task forces and wage to $15 an hour so people can afford to accountable. If you can save for college, you ‘They ought to do this, they ought to do that.’ commissions that I appoint people to, to serve just live in our community with dignity and can save for retirement, or you can save it And it was like, we are the they. And we get a as board members on their district councils or know that that’s going to have really strong, for a rainy day, you can save to buy a house. chance to do the things that we’ve been saying on their local nonprofits, to come serve as vol- positive impacts on every other aspect of life Connecting families to savings and real finan- forever that they ought to do. unteers and mentors in our schools and tutors in our community. cial institutions is a part of this as well. Honestly, it’s scary in a lot of ways. But in our libraries and coaches in our rec centers, If you think about the $50 dollars a child it’s really helpful to know that we’ve got help and just to get plugged into the process, and Q: You’ve mentioned also starting a college each for the 5,000 children born in this city from our staff, our team, to just the people all to come to the Capitol and advocate for some savings fund for every St. Paul student, and a year – I can’t come up with anything that’s over the city who said, ‘We’re not electing you of the change that we seek in the Capitol with it’s sparked a lot of attention. Why did you that cost effective, that we could do, that to send you to city hall, we’re electing to go us as well. make this an important part of your vision? could have that profound an impact all across with you to city hall and we’re here to help.’ My hope is that as our young people gradu- A: Oh, I don’t know if we even have time for our city. It’s exciting. ate from high school, as our young people me to say all of it. I’m so excited about it. Geoff Canada, who was the founder of the graduate from college or at St. Thomas right We know again, children on the right start Harlem’s Children Zone, which we patterned This interview has been edited for length and now – I have no doubt that this spring a bunch is important. There’s a lot of research that the St. Paul Promise Neighborhood after in content.

April 2018 27 VOICES

succeeds, there’s a weak self stand- probably not my life. They tell me the highest among countries in Mental illness ing. It’s a little dangerous. I fall that’s why I’m having a hard time… the Organization for Economic sometimes again into depression Why did I choose that? It’s funny Cooperation and Development and compulsion,” Yoongi raps in that I’m able to endure this much.” (OECD), according to 2015 data, in K-pop Korean in a song titled “The Last.” In an Instagram message posted and had more than doubled since “Sometimes I’m afraid of myself, after Jong-hyun’s death, close 2000. According to reports, suicide thanks to my self-hatred and the friend and K-pop idol Kim Tae-yeon was the number one cause of death depression that came to play again. wrote about their shared feelings of among teenagers in South Korea, Learning from the death … I was afraid of people, so I hid in loneliness. where mental health services lag of a K-pop music star the bathroom and stared at myself.” “I remember you telling me about behind those in other countries. The entire track describes how how you wrote ‘Lonely’ with me in Jong-hyun’s record label, SM his transition from an underground your thoughts,” Tae-yeon wrote, Entertainment, released his solo artist to K-pop idol put pressure on referring to a song they co-wrote album, “Poet/Artist,” in January Writer’s Note: I wrote this story in him and made him not recognize and sang together. “We are very 2018. The company announced memory of Kim Jong-hyun because Heidi Sanchez himself. In one song, he raps about similar and alike. We know those that profits would go to his mother I’ve also felt depression and been told Avila going to a psychiatrist with his feelings.” as well as a “foundation for the to “suck it up,” that I can’t be selfish. I Voices Writer parents and them feeling like they According to the Korea Herald, establishment of an organization to am a huge fan of K-pop and I want to didn’t know him anymore. South Koreans tend to view help those who are living in difficult share the story of how two idols, Jong- In December 2017, idol Jong- mental illness as a taboo subject. circumstances.” hyun and Min Yoongi, have shared an underground rapper and one of hyun, a member of SHINee, died of Government statistics noted that Kim Ki-bum of SHINee, also their mental health issues. K-pop’s biggest idols, expressed his an apparent suicide. one in four South Koreans suffered known as “Key,” publicly addressed struggles with social phobia and “I’m broken from the inside,” from a mental health disorder but the future of the group after Jong- K-pop, a subculture of music that depression in August 2016 through Jong-hyun, 27, wrote in a letter to only one in 10 pursue professional hyun’s death. comes from South Korea, has a a mixtape titled “Agust D.” a friend that was made public after help, according to the 2017 article. “There have also been many reputation of being a demanding “Behind every idol rapper who his death. “Becoming famous was The suicide rate in Korea was people worried about us [SHINee], business. and we have decided to continue K-pop groups typically consist the Japan concert as planned,” he of four to 15 members, including wrote in an Instagram post. “Jong- vocalists, dancers and rappers. hyun would want us to do some- Some of the biggest entertainment thing like this, and I believe that it is companies in K-pop are rumored to of SHINee[‘s character] to continue require artists to train for hours on and keep our promise to fans to end, to monitor their lives closely showcase a good stage.” and to control their dating. The After the death of Jong-hyun, public and the companies expect there were reported cases of fans much from the idols, such as attempting suicide. One failed keeping up appearances and being attempt reportedly occurred in fashion icons. Indonesia. The fan had posted on Some idols have come out Twitter: “Should I give up my life and shared their struggles with for now since I lost both of my par- depression and anxiety. Yoongi, ents and my idol? It’s stressing me out.” She followed that tweet with: “I can’t endure it anymore. Mom, Fans also dad, Jong-hyun oppa, we’ll meet really soon.” should realize For this K-pop fan, my only hope is for everyone to know that there’s that these idols support available to you. Fans also should realize that these idols are are just as human just as human as you and I. If you or a person you know is as you and I. suffering through depression or mental illness, visit the National Alliance on Mental Health’s website

COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG BY SPEROSPERA SPEROSPERA BY COMMONS.WIKIMEDIA.ORG at nami.org for more information Jong-hyun, a K-pop star, died last year in what authorities have called an apparent suicide. and resources.

28 threesixtyjournalism.org VOICES

didn’t expect was the way people We need to raise awareness about talked about mental illness. Mental illness and On that same trip, my family treating mental illness in these communities went to a special Orthodox my community Christian church. It was this once- that might have these additional barriers. in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a famous priest. We got in one of the mini-buses, My experiences with mental health heading to this outdoor church and friends’ money. Another person mental illness in the country has near the border of Addis Ababa, was a local actor suffering from drug been stigmatized. in Ethiopia, my parents’ homeland the capital city. People were selling abuse. Their stories made them These experiences have shown necklaces that had black string with sound like characters in movies. It me that different cultures have addi- a small wooden cross dangling. My was very foreign to me. My siblings tional barriers in coming forward When I went to Ethiopia in 2015 grandmother bought us one each, and I were puzzled, but everybody with their struggles with mental ill- to celebrate my uncle graduating Elezebet and we found an open space where else just sat in silence. Shaking their ness. In all cultures, people struggle from college, I remember watching Mitiku we could do our normal prayer. heads. Tearing up. Praying for the with mental illnesses and the stigma a story about a woman and her child Voices Writer I started to notice a difference demonic spirits to leave the victims’ of dealing with them or talking on the government-run state news. between our church back home and bodies and to better themselves as about them. And in some cultures, They both suffered from an this one when I saw a small section people. people have extra barriers, whether unnamed mental illness and they diagnosis. of people in the front being segre- From the far left of the church, I it’s going to church to go through an were missing. There was a reward I was born in St. Paul and raised gated from the rest of the people. wondered if they were getting help exorcism, using cultural remedies or for finding the two. by Ethiopian parents, a dad from They were “possessed.” They were from a doctor or a therapist like I resorting to witchcraft. However, it wasn’t the story Addis Ababa and a mom from Jijiga, crying, screaming, fainting, getting normally would see in the U.S. We need to raise awareness about itself that intrigued me, but rather the biggest city in the Ogaden sick and yelling at the deacons. An estimated 15 percent of treating mental illness in these the words the news anchors used desert. At 14, I took my third trip The deacons hit them with this big Ethiopian people are affected by communities that might have these to refer to the missing people. back to Ethiopia. I was definitely necklace of beads. Then the priest major mental illnesses or substance additional barriers and understand They were called “insane” and expecting blue vans, three-wheeled started bringing the possessed abuse disorders, according to a how we can learn from the ways “crazy” rather than “mentally ill,” Bajaj motorcycles and the constant people on stage one by one. 2016 article by the World Health each culture treats mental illness. “disabled” or any other formal smell of cooking by fire. What I One person had stolen his family Organization. Yet suffering from

COUNSELOR from page 14 For each statement, students rank 1-5 how it “What I want to do is to find a way to help students graduation rate for the St. Paul district was applies to them. nearly 76 percent in 2015-2016 and nearly The Internet addiction survey was created stay on track to graduate and to get them motivated.” 77 percent in 2016-2017. In 2017, nearly 83 by Dr. David Walsh, an award-winning psy- percent of all Minnesota students graduated chologist and author. Sullivan modified the —Marianna Sullivan, St. Paul Harding counselor on time, a record, according to the Minnesota survey for students. Department of Education. Sullivan surveyed 93 senior students in Social media plays a major role in the lives three different classes: English 12, Recovery of high school students. Eight out of 10 high English, and College in the Schools Algebra. “I was surprised that students didn’t see get school done first.” school students own a smartphone, and the Her hypothesis was that the higher a student [the impact of social media and technology] Pachia Lor, another Harding student, also percentage of these students bringing their scored on the Internet addiction survey, the as more of an issue,” she said. “I was not sur- uses technology to access social media and smartphone out in class has increased from more absences and the lower that student’s prised when they all said they have jobs, and online resources for her education, she said. 44 percent to 53 percent, according to a 2015 GPA and class rank would be. they have these other responsibilities, because “I think technology has pretty much helped article from TheJournal.com. According to But she found out that wasn’t always the I think that’s very hard to manage.” us move forward in life, but also sets us a 2017 International Business Times article, case. There was no clear correlation between Craig Jones, a senior at Harding, owns a back,” Lor said, “because so many of us are so people spent an average of about five hours Internet addiction and a student’s absences, phone. And just like other students, he uses it focused on our screens [more] than what’s per day on their phones. GPA and class rank, she said. Some students to go on social media. It’s a big part of his life, going on around the world, so I think that’s Sullivan wanted to understand the mental had low scores on the survey and also had low he said, and it helps him stay informed. also an issue.” and emotional growth of students who use GPAs and attendance, while some students “[Technology] does not distract me from Sullivan’s project is ongoing as of March. technologies such as smartphones and social had high scores on the survey as well as high learning,” Jones said. “I know when to put my She plans to find new methods to gather data media such as Facebook, Snapchat and GPAs and attendance. phone down. I feel like if anything it helps me, that can give her insights to help students YouTube, she said. Other factors affecting students’ academic because I can stay connected.” graduate. To gather up the data, she gave senior success could be jobs outside of school He added: “I’ve got nothing to stop me “What I want to do,” she said, “is to find a students a survey. The survey has a list of and responsibilities at home, according to from graduating. I do have [problems], but way to help students stay on track to graduate statements that center on Internet addiction. Sullivan. I don’t let it affect me. I feel like you need to and to get them motivated.”

April 2018 29 INNOCENCE from page 11 the circumstances in which it supposed to do? What do I do? I’ve sentencing guidelines. judge. He was presented with Olson during the 2007 trial. was made. And the prosecution been fighting this for 11 years. Are IPMN’s “Never Forgotten” award In what Schultz called the had never turned it over [to the you telling me that I can get out but AFTER HIS RELEASE in 2016. “smoking gun” that could get defense]. And that is a violation of I’m not exonerated?’” Olson’s release was not without Since Olson’s release, he and Olson out of prison, Todd allowed the Constitution.” After weeks of consideration, consequence. Schultz have stayed in contact, and IPMN access to documentation of a Olson could either continue to Olson decided to take the deal. He “I came home to nothing,” Olson both vividly remember their first private conversation he had with a fight his case or he could walk out said that seeing his elderly mother said. “Everything I had was gone. encounter. mental health professional in 2007. of prison on the condition that he again was the biggest factor. After Right down to my dog.” IPMN, described by Jonas as According to Schultz, the conversa- would not sue the county for dam- walking out of prison, he got that He added: “I’m 59. I’m trying to “a desperate person’s last hope,” tion encompassed Todd explaining ages related to the withholding of wish, along with the freedom he had get it all back.” turned thousands of hours of he had wrongfully accused Olson evidence, according to Schultz. The sought for more than a decade. Olson said he’s been diagnosed volunteer legal work into a new life and the prosecution had instructed latter option, however, would not In a September 2016 Star Tribune with post-traumatic stress disorder for Olson. him to do so. result in Olson’s exoneration. report, Wright County Attorney and struggles at times to move Since his release, Olson has “We got this document, and “When I called Terry to tell him Tom Kelly said he continues to forward with his life. His path to been taking exams with the goal of it was in the possession of law this, you might think it was the believe Olson was guilty of killing a normal life was aided by his old becoming a certified paralegal. He enforcement and it was clearly best day of Terry’s life. I think it Hammill. Kelly said his office agreed employer, who gave him back the said he plans to use those skills to exculpatory,” Schultz said. “It was probably the second-worst day to release Olson because he had job he had before he was sentenced assist IPMN in the future. was different from any other of his life,” Schultz said. “He was already served more time than in 2007. “I still have a little bit of a life to statement that was made, given in tears. He was like, ‘What am I he would have faced under 1980 Schultz is now a U.S. magistrate lead,” he said.

CARLSON from page 19 see the differences the campaign is up after her book, “Be Fierce: Stop CARLSON’S CAREER making in so many people’s lives.” Harassment and Take Your Power The leadership initiative is a Back,” was published in 2017. Gretchen Carlson worked for Fox nine-city tour that brings civic “I heard from tons of people after News for more than a decade, leadership and advocacy training most recently hosting “The Real my book ‘Be Fierce’ came out, and I Story with Gretchen Carlson” on to underserved women across the hope that they all will get justice— Fox News for three years. Prior to country. It’s focused on empower- the woman who is being harassed that, she co-hosted the No. 1-rated ing women who have experienced at McDonald’s to the teacher or a cable morning news show “Fox and gender-based violence, discrimina- member of the military or a lawyer,” Friends” for more than seven years. tion or harassment. The workshops Carlson started her television Carlson said. career in Richmond, Virginia, as a are free because Carlson wanted to Like many others, Carlson can’t political reporter, and later served help women who didn’t have the share the details of her sexual as an anchor and reporter in resources she had. harassment story because she signed Cincinnati, Cleveland and Dallas. “I thought it was really impor- She moved to the national scene as an arbitration agreement as part of the co-host of the Saturday edition tant because how do you help the her Fox contract, which took away of “The Early Show” on CBS. single mom who is working two jobs her right to go to court. Filing a and also being sexually harassed?” claim under arbitration often results Carlson said. “This was a tough in a firing or demotion, Carlson said. Some companies, such as question for me because I really “It is another way to keep women Microsoft, have stopped using didn’t have an answer.” quiet,” she said. “Often times what forced arbitration clauses in sexual One of her biggest surprises was happens is the perpetrator gets to harassment cases. Carlson hopes the number of men who thanked keep working because no one ever other companies will follow in its her for coming forward, she said. knows that cases have come up footsteps. She realized men also want safe about that person.” Carlson also started the Gift of work environments for their female That’s why Carlson has taken her Courage Fund, which helps girls colleagues. fight to Capitol Hill. and young women recognize their “As long as we have men mainly In December, Carlson helped potential, and created a partnership running Fortune 500 companies, convince lawmakers to introduce with the All in Together campaign then we need men to help us,” a bipartisan bill in both the U.S. to create the Gretchen Carlson Carlson said. “We need men to hire House and the Senate that would Leadership Initiative. more of us, and support us and remove forced arbitration clauses in “The All in Together campaign stop enabling this kind of behavior employee agreements. helps women have a voice in their in the workplace and stop being “I think what was so important lives and my job is to work with bystanders. to me was that it was bipartisan, Gretchen to support these women,” “I really feel that the final part of PHOTO COURTESY OF ZELMA BROUNOFF OF DALLAS OF ZELMA BROUNOFF EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY PHOTO because this issue is apolitical,” said Simone Leiro, director of pro- the equation is men saying, ‘Enough Carlson speaks to women during the Gretchen Carlson Leadership Initiative, Carlson said. “When someone gramming and partnerships for All is enough,’ and I really feel like that a nationwide tour in partnership with the All in Together Campaign that decides to harass you they don’t ask, in Together. “I love seeing women will bring us together cohesively brings civic leadership and advocacy training to underserved women across ‘What political party are you in?’” inspired to tell their stories and and make a change.” the country.

30 threesixtyjournalism.org FREY from page 24 department. It’s a few things. First, we need additional accountability measures, and there is a pretty significant distrust in the police department, especially among communities of color. So that shift comes in the form of your policies. I believe that officers should have to exhaust reason- able alternatives before resorting to deadly force. I believe that just having a body camera or body camera policy doesn’t do any good unless the body cameras are turned on, or those policies need to be shifted and we need a culture shift on the department. I’m also a firm believer that we should be expecting a whole lot from our officers, but if we’re expecting a lot from our officers, we also need to be giving them the JOURNALISM tools to succeed and do their job. Right now a lot of them are just running from 911 call to 911 call, so SUMMER CAMPS they never have the opportunity to build out the positive relationships HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS, with the community. We’re going to be doing some work to narrow the JOIN THREESIXTY JOURNALISM TO: APPLY TODAY – SPACE gap between officers and the com- munity. Putting them on consistent • Complete your college essay. AND SCHOLARSHIPS ARE LIMITED! times and schedules so you know • Learn how to use photos and words who your officer is and you know to tell your story. him or her by name. Things need to • Engage with media professionals • Get published and have your work be moving in that direction. and tour newsrooms. seen by 10,000 teens! Q: The Super Bowl is in a few • Compete for a full-tuition, four-year days. How will you be enjoying the journalism scholarship at the experience? University of St. Thomas! A: We’re actually still working that out. I won’t be at the game. I won’t WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT THREESIXTY • Experience campus life at the be in the stadium anyway. I was “ThreeSixty has really been the best part of my high University of St. Thomas! planning on swinging by beforehand school life.” – Mina, student to shake a few hands and tell people REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS MAY 21 to invest in the city, but then leaving “ThreeSixty provides more than just writing skills or ways before kickoff is the plan as of right to be a better writer, like career opportunities, school now. I actually have to talk to my VIEW CAMP DATES, SIGN-UP options and mentors.” – Skyler, student staff about watching the game on OPTIONS AND REGISTER AT Nicollet Mall or in some bar in the “I learned new skills and how to make a college essay threesixtyjournalism.org/summercamps area with the rest of the community. more interesting. Love seeing improvement Q: When you’re not busy with work, from myself!” – Tina, student QUESTIONS? what’s your favorite thing to do in Contact ThreeSixty Minneapolis? Engagement Manager Bao Vang A: Honestly, I just like going out to at [email protected] or dinner with my wife, or I like going (651) 962-5225. for a run with a bunch of friends and then going out to dinner with my wife. We usually eat out because REAL STUDENTS. REAL STORIES. neither one of us are good cooks.

This interview has been edited for JOURNALISM length and content.

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