Minnesotans, like the rest of the world, are working to adjust to a “new normal” amidst COVID-19.
As we work to rise to this challenge together, the Citizens League is looking for ways to adapt to this new environment while continuing to serve the community.
LISTENING TO YOU
We know that this pandemic is affecting everyone, but we want to hear how it is affecting you. The Citizen League happens to be in the middle of our strategic planning efforts, so hearing from you now will allow us to better understand the challenges on the ground in order to advance needed policy recommendations. For example, we’ve already heard from many of you about the inconsistencies around the availability and use of sick time to regulatory barriers in meeting supply demands.
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WHAT WE’RE DOING
We are following state and federal guidelines to practice social distancing to “flatten the curve” of cases of COVID-19 in our region. This includes modifying some of our programs, delaying public events, holding meetings over phone and the web, and working from home as much as possible.
Here are some specific ways we are changing to try to avoid the spread of the virus:
Our program pairing college students in policy internships around the state continues with modifications. The health, safety and well-being of our students and partnering host organizations remain our highest priority. All student meetings that we are facilitating will be held remotely. We are working with our 37 host organizations to provide any needed guidance to ensure they can continue to support our students until the end of the internship period.
Earlier this year we conducted information sessions to engage immigrant and ethnic communities in Minnesota encouraging participation in the 2020 Census. While those sessions are complete, the need to inform and encourage people to participate continues. We will be making our information sessions available online on our website and via social media to help people understand their vital role in ensuring every Minnesota resident is counted.
Due to state and federal recommendations, we are postponing March and April dates of our policy event series.
In the interest of public health and safety, all tickets purchased for Policy On Tap are fully refundable for any reason, or if there is an unexpected cancellation of an event.
If an event is canceled or postponed, all registrants will be notified via email. Registrants will have an option to transfer their ticket to another event, request a refund, or designate all or a portion of the fee as a tax-deductible donation to the Citizens League.
> Click here for info on our event series, including updated dates.
We will continue to update our event plans as needed.
STAY INFORMED
As the situation regarding COVID-19 changes rapidly, there is a flood of information out there. Unfortunately, some of that information is of questionable accuracy, so it is important to verify what you read and hear.
Here are organizations we are turning to for the latest news and guidance.
Minnesota Department of Health
Up to date information on cases and guidance for Minnesotans
> Click here for MDH information on COVID-19
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
News on national cases, symptoms to watch, and how you can protect yourself and loved ones.
> Click here for CDC information on COVID-19
Minnesota Unemployment Information
On March 16, 2020, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued an executive order to ensure workers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic have full access to unemployment benefits.
> Click here for information from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
Media Organizations
The two major newspapers in the Twin Cities — the Star Tribune and the Pioneer Press — have removed their paywalls on news pieces surrounding the virus.
Additionally, Twin Cities PBS has created a regularly-updated resource in English, Hmong, Somali, and Spanish languages.
STAY CONNECTED
This is a challenging time for all Minnesotans as we work together to slow the virus by practicing social distancing. While there is no real substitute for gathering with friends, family, and fellow Minnesotans, we are heartened by the creativity of people and organizations around the state to keep us all connected.
We encourage you to look for “virtual” opportunities to share experiences, enjoy art, and feed your need for connection. Many local musicians are streaming performances from their homes. Museums are offering expanded online content.
The Citizens League is proud to serve Minnesota and we remain inspired by the spirit of our community as we rally together to take on this challenge. We will send further updates as needed to keep you informed about our programs and resources.
Stay safe. We will get through this together.
There has never been a more important time to show your support of coming together to find common ground, for the common good. If you’re able, please consider a gift today. Your support is essential, and we are so grateful.