Rep. Ellison Statement on Minneapolis Promise Zone

Statement

Rep. Keith Ellison (D-MN) released the following statement today after the Obama Administration announced a part of Minneapolis would be designated as one of six new federal Promise Zone neighborhoods nationwide. With this announcement, the federal government will invest in our community's comprehensive place-based investment plan to reduce poverty, create jobs, increase economic activity, improve educational opportunities, and reduce violent crime and poverty.

"The Minneapolis Promise Zone is the result of teamwork, vision, and a commitment to invest in communities that have historically not known it. It represents the collective vision of Mayor Betsy Hodges, the Minneapolis City Council, and community leaders of 'One Minneapolis' in which equity is infused in every decision. The achievement gap between white and black students in Minneapolis is too high. Too many people of color can't make ends meet. Racial exclusion is increasing inequality and decreasing opportunity. But we know our neighbors deserve better.

"Minnesotans believe we should give support to families who need it most, which is exactly what the Minneapolis Promise Zone is all about. The announcement today means the federal government will invest to expand the capacity and success of our robust local network that works to provide opportunities for youth, expand educational opportunities, and promote peace and safety. I raised my family in North Minneapolis and I'm proud to see our neighborhood get the critical investment it needs."

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