Yesterday was Election Day and the Minnesota we know and love shined bright last night as history was made in multiple communities.

Nadia Mohamed was elected the first Muslim woman and first Somali on the St. Louis Park City Council. Kissy Coakley will represent Ward 4 for Minnetonka making her the first African-American to serve on Minnetonka’s City Council. Duluth voters elected the city’s first African-American council member, Janet Kennedy. Not only are these wins for Duluth, St. Louis Park, and Minnetonka, but these are wins for Minnesota. It solidifies our Minnesotan values, and reiterates that no matter where you’re from or what you look like, we support our neighbors and support one another.

Another notable win for Minnesotans is the passing of Worthington’s school referendum after being rejected five times since 2013. This win was crucial for the Worthington community. With the influx of immigrants in recent years, Worthington being able to pass this referendum allows them to better welcome their immigrant neighbors in the community. Immigrants came here to make better lives for themselves and their families, to work hard, and do their part like all of us. 

These wins show that when we when we come together, we can keep Minnesota nice and continue making our state a more progressive and welcoming place.