Today is Statehood Day, Minnesota’s birthday. 153 years ago today Minnesota became the 32nd state in the U.S. Since then, Minnesota has done pretty well. We’ve had things we can be proud of. Like all places, we’ve had things to be not so proud of. Hopefully, we’ve learned from the mistakes so as not to repeat them.
Today, the Minnesota legislature debated putting discrimination into the state constitution. They also discussed whether climate science is actually valid or bogus. When we celebrate Minnesota’s 160th birthday, or 200th, or beyond, what will our children and grandchildren make of things like these? Will future Minnesotans feel proud about this, or will they be viewed as mistakes that took us away from our traditions and shared values? Our leaders should reflect on how history will remember their actions today and as we move forward.