Waking up to the news that MIGIZI was lost as a result of residual fires is devastating. I am grateful that no one was hurt and they had time to save what they could. It hurts because for 40 years they have served and worked so hard to empower our next generations.

I just hope that even through the hurt and devastation we don't lash out needlessly and contribute to the violent Anti-Blackness of this moment. We were not a target and there is no need for retribution.

There is, however, a need to help rebuild and rise from the ashes as we have done so many times in our history. So I am asking that if you are able to, please donate to Migizi and help them rebuild, so they can get back to helping our youth heal and thrive https://www.givemn.org/organization/Migizi-Communications

Hold space for each other today, check up on your loved ones, pay forward a kindness because there is so much hurt and devastation right now. None of us are okay. We are all operating in trauma and survival mode and it will either bring out the best or the worst in people.

Make a concerted effort to be aware of this...be mindful, patient, compassionate....have empathy for others and let this bring out the best in us because we still have to pick up the pieces, rebuild and envision a better way forward and the only way we can do that is together.