Social Issues

Federal Indian boarding schools still exist, but what's inside may be surprising
The schools were tools of the U.S. government's attempts to erase tribal culture. But the few that remain have become places Native families want their children to attend.
AI in medicine needs to be carefully deployed to counter bias – and not entrench it
Powerful new artificial intelligence tools can perpetuate long-standing racial inequities if they are not designed very carefully. Researchers and regulators are taking note, but perils are vast.
St. Paul nonprofit founder has 'irreducible' drive to help youth of color 
For more than 10 years, the Irreducible Grace Foundation, started by Darlene Fry in 2012, has operated under a singular guiding principle — to give youth of color a safe space to grow and explore their passions.
'Road to Healing' tour makes Minnesota stops
Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland is traveling the country in an effort to uncover stories from federally run boarding schools for Indigenous children and holding events where survivors and their families can share their experiences and seek support.
Congress created changes to food assistance. Here's what they mean
In an effort to avoid defaulting on the nation's loans, lawmakers created updates to SNAP, the nation's largest food assistance safety net. There are new work requirements as well as exemptions.
For 25 years, program has created brotherhood for Black high school seniors
Nine Twin Cities high school students began a “voyage to manhood” six months ago through Rites of Passage, a leadership program under African American-led nonprofit Jack and Jill of America.
LGBTQ+ activists call for new strategies to promote equality after Target backlash
While the retailer said its actions were aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of its employees after protesters knocked over Pride signs and confronted workers in stores, the controversy comes at a time when conflict over LGBTQ+ rights is simmering.