Brokering Trust
Bridging Divides
The Citizens League is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that creates opportunities for Minnesotans to engage in building a strong civic life and effective public policies.
Recent News
Citizens League’s Pahoua Yang Hoffman to Assist with New Minnesota Governor Transition
Including Hoffman in the Walz-Flanagan transition team underscores the importance of actively seeking many different perspectives in the new administration.
Donate now and have your gift doubled!
To help us continue leading bipartisan solutions in our state, we hope you will consider supporting our work on Give to the Max Day, this Thursday, November 15th. Thanks to the generosity of our board members and friends, your gift from now through Give to the Max Day will be doubled by our matching fund up to $10,000!
Citizens League to Welcome Over 1,000 New Citizens in St. Paul
Naturalization ceremony will include representation from 91 countries.
The BAND Group presents: Maple and Vine
The BAND Group, a Twin Cities-based theatrical company devoted to supporting other nonprofits, is pleased to announce its next production: a minimalist staging of Maple and Vine, Jordan Harrison’s bracing look at what has been gained and lost in the race to reclaim “old-time” values directed by Adrian Lopez-Balbontin and Todd O’Dowd playing Nov. 2-5 at the Center for Performing Arts in Minneapolis.
PHOTOS: Civic Celebration 2018
On October 11, members, supporters, and friends of the Citizens League honored Richard Davis, whose innovative leadership has transformed Minnesota. Thanks to all who could join us in celebrating civic engagement and leadership in Minnesota!...
Civic Celebration Speakers Announced!
We’re pleased to announce an amazing line-up of speakers that will not only speak of the innovative leadership of Richard Davis, but also how his civic engagement, public investment, and community-building serves as a model for leaders throughout Minnesota. Mr. Miles Swammi, Ms. Marilyn Carlson Nelson, and Mr. Ravi Norman join us October 11!
Current Work
Minnesota Legislative Exchange
The Minnesota Legislative Exchange is a first-in-the-nation effort to build trust and bipartisan relationships in state legislatures. As Minnesota’s leading nonpartisan nonprofit focused on civic engagement and public policy solutions, Citizens League is proud to lead this important effort, intentionally forging new relationships to bridge divides and govern our state effectively.
Capitol Pathways
With the long-term goal of making our government truly representative of our communities, the program opens access to the Minnesota Capitol to the next generation of leaders of color. Through this program, interns build relationships with established Capitol leaders, gain exposure to various kinds of careers in policy, get real-world experience in career fields they would like to learn more about and build a strong professional resume in the process.
Strengthening Public Service
Citizens League is embarking on a new project to dig deeper and explore the unique challenges and barriers to public service, with a particular emphasis on non-elected roles and people who make our state’s local governments work.
Events
Through our engagement with communities in Minnesota, we strive to help people understand that public policy happens everywhere, and everyone has a role in decision-making.
Our events are organized around these goals, inviting a panel of different viewpoints to discuss policy issues that affect Minnesotans. We cover such topics as mental health, aging, disruptive protests, and water quality. Those in attendance can expect ample opportunity to voice their perspectives, questions, and ideas as well.
Mind Opener – Past, Present and Future: The Case for Liberal Arts Education
Join us for a special Citizens League Mind Opener, hosted and sponsored by Macalester College, as we delve into an insightful conversation about the future of liberal arts and higher education, and the role it can play in building a resilient, strong civic life for Minnesota and beyond.
Thursday, April 16, 2026
Civic Celebration 2026
The annual Civic Celebration, Citizens League’s premier fundraiser and networking event, will take place on Thursday, April 16, 2026! Minnesotans from diverse backgrounds, political parties, and ideologies will gather for an evening to recognize Minnesota’s civic culture, innovative leadership, and a commitment working together across our differences to build trust and improve lives.