The City of Bloomington has rolled out the red carpet for local Black leaders with the initiation of the 'Bloomington Pioneers and Changemakers,' a series spotlighting the dedication and groundbreaking work of those connected to the area. This annual salute coincides with Black History Month, a time traditionally set aside for honoring the contributions of Black Americans, and will be casting a well-earned light on those shaping the present and carving pathways for the future.
A slate of interviews with the honorees from 2023 has already landed on the City’s YouTube channel, and per Bloomington's official announcement, fans can expect fresh content this year as well, hosted across the City’s digital platforms including YouTube and Facebook. Tonya Allen, leading the McKnight Foundation, Coriner Boler, Desmond Daniels, and Dr. Joyce Ester are among those who celebrated last year’s original series for their unique impacts ranging from arts and education to advocacy and public service.
Last year's roster included Tonya Allen, president of the McKnight Foundation, who is recognized for steering the foundation towards supporting equitable communities, recognizing her part in facilitating a generous $250,000 grant to propel a new Bloomington small business center. Coriner Boler is hailed for her relentless community advocacy, particularly in the housing sector within Minneapolis; she has also been a formidable connection in health and housing grant initiatives and gives back through charitable drives.
Donning the badge with pride while fostering community trust, Desmond Daniels, a 17-year veteran of the police force and a member of the Bloomington Police’s Racial Equity Action Team, emphasizes the importance of law enforcement to mix with the public beyond emergency scenarios. Hamde Daoud’s dedication to underrepresented groups as a community connections coordinator pairs well with Dr. Joyce Ester's efforts to position Normandale Community College as a leading transfer institution with an anti-racist and student-ready institution, according to the City's commendation.
Tim Farrow, who serves on the advisory board for Bloomington's new small business hub, is saluted for his commitment to ensuring equality in the corporate arena for diverse-owned businesses and was a vice president and business access advisor at U.S. Bank. Faith Jackson, who plays a vital role as Chief Equity and Inclusion Officer for the City of Bloomington, has established racial equity action teams and expanded the conversation on diversity within the community since 2019.
Lastly, Dr. Stephen Thompson, a proponent of integrative medicine and a third-generation medical professional, adds to the dynamic fields of those honored, complementing his professorial duties with volunteer work that focuses on trauma-informed care. These individuals represent a diverse cross-section of leaders whose actions create enduring impacts, prompting accolades and, now, digital preservation of their efforts and legacies to inspire others.
