bond.

4 immigrant-operated businesses

vandalized in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — At least four small immigrant-operated businesses have been vandalized in a south Minneapolis neighborhood.

A 36-year-old man was arrested Thursday. Police say it’s too early to speculate on a motive but they will look at whether bias was a factor.

The four businesses are operated by East African immigrants. The Star Tribune reports the businesses include a cafe and market in the Seward neighborhood.

The vandalism included smashed windows.

Minnesota student climate

strikers to march on Capitol

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota students concerned over climate change are planning to skip school and march on the state Capitol in St. Paul on Friday as part of global protests by young people demanding action from their governments.

Organizers are calling for legislation at the state and local level in Minnesota to reverse climate change. They’re also calling for a halt to Enbridge Energy’s planned Line 3 crude oil pipeline across northern Minnesota.

The St. Paul protest is one of over 3,000 climate strikes planned in 120 counties on Friday. The inspiration comes from Swedish teenager Greta Thunberg. The 16-year-old has been in Washington this week for several days of rallies and lobbying efforts.

A similar climate strike drew about 1,000 Minnesota students to the Capitol in March. Organizers hope Friday’s attracts 3,000.

Task force launched on missing

and murdered indigenous women

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan have helped launch a statewide task force on the plight of missing and murdered indigenous women.

They led a ceremonial bill signing Thursday that brought together advocates, tribal representatives, law enforcement and elected officials for the panel’s first meeting.

The 27-member task force is meant to draw attention to the disproportionate rates of violence experienced by indigenous women and girls. It’s due to issue a final report by Dec. 15, 2020.