Ramsey County celebrates Black History Month

Every February, Ramsey County celebrates Black History Month. This year’s theme, African Americans and Labor, highlights the many ways work has shaped the experiences of Black people — whether paid or unpaid, skilled or unskilled, by choice or by force. It invites us to reflect on the roles Black people have played in workplaces throughout history and across the U.S., Africa and the diaspora.

Join us and the City of Saint Paul this year for events celebrating the history and contributions of Black Americans. Take part in discussions about Black labor history at the speaker panel or connecting with opportunities at the Empowering Progress Career Fair. Together, we’ll honor this legacy, support Black workers and work toward a more inclusive workforce.

Events

Speaker Panel: African American Labor Pioneers - Feb. 13, noon-1:30 p.m.

This virtual panel discussion will dive into the history of Black labor, highlighting its critical role in shaping the national economy and workforce. Panelists will also discuss the ongoing fight for workplace equality and how we can continue building an inclusive workforce for future generations.

Moderator:

• William P. Jones, author and professor of U.S. history at the University of Minnesota.

Panelists:

• Jean Ann Durades, workforce pioneer, arts advocate and educator focused on promoting African American artists.
• Frank White,  Author, historian and advocate for Saint Paul Rondo and African American baseball history.
   
• Louise Sundin, Educator, labor leader, and powerful advocate for workers’ rights, women’s rights, and social justice. 

​Black Business Expo & Financial Empowerment Lunch & Learn - Feb. 27,11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Connect with local entrepreneurs, business owners, community organizations, and industry professionals committed to advancing Black business ownership. Attend the Financial Empowerment lunch and learn with Join Michael Franks, Advisory Pro Financial LLC.

​Empowering Progress Career Fair - Feb. 27, 2-6 p.m.

Join local employers with open roles supporting workers of all ages and career stages at the Empowering Progress Career Fair. We will be offering entertainment, free professional headshots and food from local vendors. From financial counseling to paid youth internships, there is something for everyone.​

Workforce Innovation Youth Discussion - Feb. 27, 5-6 p.m.

Youth are leading change around the world to improve education access, career readiness, and entrepreneurship in the workforce. Young people between the ages of 14 and 18 can register to attend the Workforce Innovation discussion.

Learn more about Empowering Progress: African Americans in the Labor Movement.