Our opportunity to expand democracy in Minneapolis
At Voices for Racial Justice, we trust everybody to know what they need to thrive. The people who are most impacted by the decisions and policies made by our elected officials are also the people who are most aware of how policies could be made to support dignity and joy. We believe that in a racially equitable democracy, every community member is not only represented, but also empowered to actively participate in shaping the policies and decisions that impact us every day. Our communities are stronger when we can have a direct say in the policies that govern our lives.
This Thursday, the Minneapolis City Council will vote on the Stronger Democracy Stronger Minneapolis amendment, which would expand our democracy by allowing community members to put forward ballot initiatives and referendums.
Minneapolis infamously leads the country in racial disparities. Communities most impacted by racial disparities deserve more than representation; we deserve to be centered at any decision-making space. This amendment is about amplifying voices that have been silenced for far too long by an oppressive system that depends on representatives instead of trusting community to choose for ourselves.
Right now, the people of Minneapolis are forced to rely on their elected officials to keep their campaign promises, to be accountable and accessible, and to go to bat for their communities at City Hall. The Stronger Democracy Stronger Minneapolis amendment would expand our democracy and give communities the chance to advocate for themselves when their elected officials can’t, or won’t. Empowering Minneapolis residents to directly influence policy through ballot initiatives would be a significant step towards an inclusive and direct democracy where everyone's knowledge and expertise can make an impact - no matter how much money we have, or how responsive and accountable our representatives are.
March 13, 2024 update: The Stronger Democracy Stronger Minneapolis vote has been postponed. It will be brought back to the City Council later this year. Thank you to everybody who testified, emailed their City Council member, and helped to spread the word. We’re making our voices heard!
We will continue working to expand democracy in Minneapolis and make this city a place where everybody is empowered to impact the policies that shape our daily lives.