Get information about COVID-19 vaccinations, testing and visiting standards. Learn More.

In the Burroughs logo

In the Burroughs is a blog written by James Burroughs.

Helping amplify the voices of Minnesota’s youth at Youthprise’s event

Youth Voices Rising graphicOn April 12, 2022, Youthprise, in partnership with the Ordway Center for Performing Arts, hosted the Youth Voices Rising event. “The dynamic event will celebrate Youthprise’s 10th anniversary and the organization’s ongoing commitment to amplifying the collective voice of Minnesota’s youth.”

I was excited to join the event! I co-chaired along with Tonya Allen. Tonya is the president of the McKnight Foundation, a Minnesota-based family foundation that advances a more just, creative and abundant future where people and planet thrive.

The event

Here’s more about the event from their website:

“Recent events in the Twin Cities region underscore the need to amplify the voices and influence of youth and elevate leadership among members of Minnesota’s Black diasporic community. This population is profoundly underrepresented among nonprofits, philanthropy, education, and other sectors. This event will celebrate Black leadership locally, including recognition of the Ordway’s first-ever Black president and CEO, Chris Harrington, who joined the organization on late last year. Respected local educator and advocate Robin Hickman will serve as emcee, along with Cole Stevens, Vice President of Bridgemakers.”

The celebration spotlighted performances by Minneapolis’ next-generation alternative pop artists, NUNNABOVE; local activist and celebrated spoken-word artist, Brittany Delaney; and a featured performance by internationally acclaimed composer and Grammy-nominated vocalist, Somi.

Watch the event

James Burroughs

James Burroughs

Senior vice president, government and community relations, chief equity and inclusion officer

James Burroughs is the senior vice president, government and community relations, chief equity and inclusion officer at Children’s Minnesota. He is responsible for advancing equity and inclusion in all parts of the organization.

Follow James on Twitter and LinkedIn.

More from In The Burroughs

Keeping it 100! The history of DEI at Children’s Minnesota after 100 years
As we celebrate our centennial, what does the history of DEI look like at Children’s Minnesota? We don't have a complete picture. But we do have some archival photos that...
Cultural humility vs. cultural proficiency: sometimes not knowing is the best answer.
When it comes to working with people who are different from us, cultural competence and proficiency are not the answers. Humble inquiry provides more guidance and helps us better understand...
To commit or not commit to equity and inclusion, that is the question.
DEI is not a sprint. It’s a marathon. But too many people are dropping out of the race. This Juneteenth let’s remember why we have to stay the course....