In a time that calls for bold leadership grounded in justice and compassion, Speaker Melissa Hortman stood as a luminous force, sharing power not as a token gesture, but as a sacred act of belonging. By appointing African, Latino, Asian, and Native American (ALANA) legislators to lead pivotal committees—including Ways and Means and Capital Investment—she broke historic ground in Minnesota. Her legacy is one of genuine inclusion, of courageous dialogue in moments of tension, and of unwavering dedication to the common good. Though she and her husband were taken from us by violence aimed at silencing courageous leaders, her spirit reverberates through every policy she helped enact and the people and communities she uplifted. We will miss her and pray for God’s Blessings on her and husband Mark – for their lives of service to humanity.
Senator John Hoffman, a steadfast ally to ALANA communities, continues to embody what it means to stand in solidarity. Known affectionately by names gifted by those he serves, he shows up first and leaves last. When Minnesota’s African immigrants brought forth the first comprehensive economic impact study in 2015, he authored legislation to turn findings into action. When a community member languished unjustly in a foreign prison, he gave up family time to stand with us—and that unity led to freedom. His heart, and the hearts of his wife and daughter, beat in rhythm with those they serve—offering humor, resilience, and hope. We thank God and the angels for shielding them from the violence that sought to harm and instead have made them torchbearers of hope and belonging.
In honor of these two beacons of light, I dedicate to their inspiring leadership, the Minnesota Canvas of Belonging—a living mosaic created by hundreds of people all across Minnesota and most recently at the Kickoff to State Fair. Each mark on the canvas is a testimony: that we belong, that our stories matter, there is space for everyone and together we can create something beautiful.
May the lives of Speaker Hortman and Senator Hoffman inspire generations to lead with courage, love, and the conviction and create space of belonging for all.
— In Deepest Gratitude,
The ALANA Community
Learn more the Minnesota Canvas of Belonging at www.culturaldestinations.org/Ibelonghere.
