Thanks to the ongoing support of Changemakers Alliance (CALL) members, I am the newest member of the team at Minnesota Women's Press/CALL, stepping into the new role of Outreach Director.
I have always loved picking up a copy of the magazine at my grocery store, library, and coffee shop. Especially because I see many people I recognize in its pages — my yoga instructor, a neighbor, a dancing friend. It has been exciting and reassuring to know that people who are in my life are getting the shine they deserve, with attention paid to their voices and stories.
I also appreciate, as the momma of four, that the publication and website is freely accessible online and at 550 locations in the Twin Cities metro area.
My role will be to help people in Greater Minnesota become aware of the magazine, the website, and the new CALL conversations.
I was born and raised in Greater Minnesota, so this expansion has special resonance to me. My small town of Paynesville (then a population of 1,500) taught me most of what I know about community. I grew up watching people look out for each other in countless ways: being present at sporting, music, and other recreational events, and donating time, food, and clothes. By the time I was 8, I was a volunteer at the Good Samaritan Home, where I passed out cups of water. I also shared my music, fostered by a fantastic piano teacher. Thanks to her relentless belief in all of her students, I won a state contest, playing on a baby grand at Northrop Auditorium. I want more people to know that kind of power in small towns.
I also saw people challenge the status quo. Many of the same issues we talk about in North Minneapolis, where I live now, are similar to what is discussed in towns and living rooms across the state. We all want the best for our children, to feel safe, to have accessible housing and healthcare. As someone who has worked in the fields of mental health, housing, and reproductive justice, I am excited that I will lead a Values & Vision series in 2023.
We are gathering rural, suburban, and urban Minnesotans in conversation to create long-lasting change.
Being part of a puzzle feels good when it starts to come together. As each unique piece connects with others, we begin to marvel at the beauty of the whole. One picture, a thousand pieces strong.
It is with this in mind that I am calling on you to be a part of the whole. Your voice, your participation, and your financial support will enable the team to create discussions statewide to co-create solutions and action steps.
Thanks and Peace,
Crystal Lynea Colbert Brown
Outreach Director
Minnesota Women’s Press/Changemakers Alliance
