St. Paul City Council reflects on a historic year: ‘Ten toes down, shoulder to shoulder’

One year ago, St. Paul made history when it became the first major city in the U.S. to install an all-female city council.

Just as remarkable: This group also makes up the youngest and most racially diverse council since St. Paul incorporated in 1854. Six of its seven members are women of color. All are 40 or younger.

Wednesday at 9 a.m., you’ll hear a North Star Journey Live conversation MPR News host Angela Davis recorded last week with all seven St. Paul council members. They reflect on their groundbreaking first year in office and what it’s like to be a woman in politics today. They also talk about how they work together, despite differences, and how they are facing the upcoming political headwinds.

St. Paul City Council:

• Council member Anika Bowie, Ward 1

• Council member Rebecca Noecker, Ward 2

• Council member Saura Jost, Ward 3

• Council president Mitra Jalali, Ward 4

• Council vice president Hwa Jeong Kim, Ward 5

• Council member Nelsie Yang, Ward 6

• Council member Cheniqua Johnson, Ward 7

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