Some northern Minnesota names were included as appointments to the Young Women’s Initiative Executive Council.
According to a release, the Young Women’s Initiative is a partnership between business, nonprofit, and government that works to improve the lives of young Black, Indigenous and women of color.
“It’s my honor to elevate the leadership of these extraordinary young women from communities across Minnesota,” said Gov. Tim Walz.
“The best way to ensure that young women have the opportunities and resources they need to thrive is by asking them directly what we can do to improve their community. I look forward to working with the incredible leaders on both the Cabinet and Executive Council to achieve a better, more equitable Minnesota.”
“I am encouraged by the growing number of young women leaders throughout Minnesota. Now more than ever, it is essential that we continue to uplift the voices of women from diverse backgrounds,” said Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan.
“The Young Women’s Cabinet is a demonstration of our continued commitment to center young women in our decisions to improve the lives of all Minnesotans. Thank you to the young women who applied and shared their powerful voices, ideas, and stories with us. We are so grateful for and inspired by every one of you.”
“With the leadership of the Executive Council and the continued leadership of the Young Women’s Cabinet, Minnesota is ready for a much-needed transformation that positions young women and their families at the center of solutions,” said Gloria Perez, President & CEO of the Women’s Foundation of Minnesota, and a co-chair of the Executive Council.
“I look forward to partnering with the Young Women’s Cabinet and the Executive Council to activate the power of our state’s young women and achieve gender and racial equity. When young Black, Indigenous, and women of color in Minnesota thrive, all young women, families, and communities thrive.”
President of White Earth Tribal and Community College Lorna LaGue and Blandin Foundation CEO and President Tuleah Palmer were appointed by the governor to this council.
Palmer was once the executive director of Bemidji’s Northwest Indian Community Development Center and was awarded during United Way of Bemidji Area’s Women’s Tribute Awards breakfast last fall.
