An Inspirational Day on the Hill

This year we joined hundreds of advocates for Minnesota Homeless Day on the Hill. Back together in-person for the first time since 2020, we had an absolutely inspirational day at the Capitol advocating for legislation like the Pathway Home Act and our Housing Support bill! An event like this can seem daunting if you’ve never participated before, so we’ll break down the day’s agenda here:
 

8:30 AM: GATHERING AT CENTRAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Advocates started their day in the Friendship Room at Central Presbyterian Church, picking up their handy information folders and an official t-shirt before heading to the basement for some breakfast.

8:45 AM: A QUICK BREAKFAST WITH FRIENDS

The cafeteria filled up with service providers, clients, and neighbors — everyone is welcome in this community, and it doesn’t take long to start seeing familiar faces!

9:00 AM: PROGRAM STARTS WITH AIN DUH YUNG DRUM GROUP

Everyone migrated upstairs to the sanctuary for the start of the program, which kicked off with the Ain Duh Yung Drum Group! Click to watch the full program.

9:05 AM: REMARKS FROM GOVERNOR WALZ AND LT. GOVERNOR FLANAGAN

“The opportunity to have a transformational change has never been so within our reach.” -Governor Tim Walz

9:15 AM: PRESENTATION BY MINNESOTA INTERAGENCY COUNCIL ON HOMELESSNESS’ HOUSING JUSTICE CONSULTANTS

MICH staff presented alongside consultants with lived expertise and described ongoing work to define targeted outcomes that will drive agency homelessness strategies.

9:25 AM: WALKTHROUGH OF INFORMATION FOLDER – WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE CAPITOL

Minnesota Coalition for the Homeless (MCH) organizes Homeless Day on the Hill each year. Rhonda Otteson, Executive Director of MCH, walked attendees through their information folders and explained how to attend scheduled Lawmaker meetings.

9:35 AM: REMARKS FROM REPRESENTATIVE KEELER, REPRESENTATIVE NOOR AND SENATOR PORT

“I know what happens when we’re just trying to survive — we miss the opportunity to thrive. We need homes. We need shelters. Shelters save lives” -Representative Heather Keeler

10:00 AM: AIN DUH YUNG CENTER DRUM GROUP – TRAVELING SONG

All were invited to gather around the Ain Duh Yung Center Youth Drum Group for a Traveling Song.

10:10 AM: TRAVEL TOGETHER TO THE CAPITOL

Advocates made their way to the Minnesota State Capitol — the front steps are the perfect spot for group photos!

10:30 AM – 4:00 PM: MEETINGS WITH LAWMAKERS

One of the most exciting parts of Homeless Day on the Hill is meeting with the people who represent you. MCH schedules brief meetings with both Senators and Representatives from nearly all of Minnesota’s 67 districts, so it’s easy to make connections with lawmakers and other constituents from your district!