In the Thick of It

The Organizing Apprenticeship Project (OAP), which began twenty years ago as a program to increase the power of community organizing in Minnesota, has since evolved into a respected advocacy that remains a very relevant and current voice for racial equity.

One year ago, OAP played a role in defeating the Voter ID amendment during the 2012 election. This year, OAP is again in the thick of civic discourse as they advocate on numerous social issues relevant to racial equity.

March and Rally

• Gun Control and Gun Violence - With gun control a political hot potato in Minnesota, OAP has waded into the fray. For more information, see the Equity Files "Gun Violence IS a Racial Justice Issue"
• Immigration Reform - OAP and over 14 community organization held a rally on May 1 in support of international workers
• Ban the Box - OAP supports Minnesota House bill HF 690, which bans employment application forms from asking about prior criminal history. For more information see Equity Files "Offering a True Second Chance: ‘Ban the Box’ on Employment Applications"
• Minnesota Nice - Redefined - Vina Kay, OAP's Director of Research and Policy makes a compelling argument on a worn Minnesotan phrase. See her article at Minnesota Nice Redefined