The Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board has scheduled two meetings with the aim of hearing from communities of color about their concerns with the park system.
Board President Anita Tabb said the meetings grew out of a commitment the board made at its May 18 meeting to meet with the Minneapolis NAACP to discuss its ongoing concerns about potentially discriminatory behavior, policies and practices by the park system. That followed an apology by the board after a blowup between former President Liz Wielinski and NAACP President Nekima Levy-Pounds over speaking time at a board budget session.
The first meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at Bottineau Recreation Center, 2000 NE. 2nd St., and the second is set for 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 16 at North Commons Recreation Center, 1801 James Av. N.
Activists who allege deficiencies in the board's hiring, promotion and disciplinary record for racial minorities have been frustrated by its lack of response at formal board meetings, where board rules generally discourage dialogue on points raised. The upcoming meetings are structured to allow for more discussion.
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