Social Issues

Researchers: Homelessness declined slightly in Minnesota since 2018, pandemic effect unclear
Every three years, Wilder Research conducts a survey to better understand the prevalence of homelessness in Minnesota. On a single night in October, more than 1,000 volunteers conducted face-to-face interviews with unhoused people.
Minneapolis Uber, Lyft driver pay ordinance may face reconsideration vote next month
A Minneapolis City Council member is expected to introduce a notice that could lead to reconsideration of the city’s new rideshare driver ordinance when the council meets Thursday. Rideshare companies Uber and Lyft have warned they would leave the state if the ordinance in its current form takes effect May 1.
Rochester bans camping on city property in attempt to curb homeless encampments
The Rochester City Council passed an ordinance this week, banning camping on city property and city right-of-ways. The new rule gives Rochester City Police enforcing authority. Council members had strong opinions on both sides. 
State agency messaging in Hmong gets lost in translation
Reporting from the Sahan Journal found a Hmong translation from the Minnesota Department of Human Services was riddled with errors. Somali speakers say a Somali translation is also problematic.
Food for everyone: Fargo international market serves diversifying population
The biggest international grocery store in both North and South Dakota, the Asian and American Supermarket, is celebrating just over one year at its new location, becoming more of an important cultural hub for the Fargo-Moorhead area.
Minneapolis makes steps towards compliance with policing agreement, obstacles remain
The city of Minneapolis has leadership vacancies in two departments which play a central role in keeping up the city’s end of the court-enforced agreement on policing with the state’s human rights department.