Published Apr. 9, 2021, updated Apr. 28, 2021

To recognize and honor the contributions of Minnesota anti-racism activists, the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation (the Foundation) today issued a call for nominations for the 2021 Facing Race Awards, an annual honor placing the spotlight on individuals and organizations working to eliminate racism and its effects in Minnesota. Nominations are due no later than Monday, May 3 at 3 p.m.

“The Facing Race Awards are one way we advocate for equity,” said Eric J. Jolly, Ph.D., president and CEO of the Foundation. “For the past 14 years, it has been our honor to recognize Minnesota’s agents of change. We have learned from their work to challenge dominant narratives around race, build solutions and steadfastly work for justice and equity. Each year, our recipients have shown how the actions of one person can move us closer toward creating a just and vibrant Minnesota for all.”

Up to four honorees will be selected by a committee of nonprofit community representatives. They will each receive a grant, which they will designate to a Minnesota nonprofit of their choice. Winners will be announced as part of a televised awards program later this year.

Nomination criteria include:

• Active engagement in creating a racially equitable community
• Bravery in the face of racism, violence and/or oppression
• Defense of the values of equity and justice
• A commitment to directly addressing issues of racism and/or tackling racial inequity
  

Nominations can be submitted in English, Hmong, Somali and Spanish.