YouthLink Celebrates Black History Month
“I’m for truth no matter who tells it. I’m for justice no matter who it’s for or against.” – Malcolm X
Was it the custom prepared omelets? Was it the opportunity to learn more about a civil rights icon? Was it the opportunity to seek a safe space away from the snowstorm gusting outside? Whatever the reason, on February 4 the friendly YouthLink staff welcomed youth experiencing homelessness for the Third Annual Malcolm X Brunch to begin our celebration of Black History Month.
An array of warm, nourishing food greeted them, ranging from omelets dotted with peppers, onions and cheese to oatmeal made with milk and butter (also a touch of brown sugar) to an assortment of fresh fruit. “The French toast was my favorite part,” one of the young participants told a staff member while the soft tones of soul singer Erykah Badu played in the background. After brunch, youth were invited to watch a documentary on the life of the civil rights icon Malcolm X.
As an essential service provider allowed to operate at 50% capacity due to the pandemic, YouthLink 
will offer additional opportunities throughout the month of February including “Kings and Queens Day,” offering salon services from local black owned barbers and a Black Expression Museum, showcasing the work of local artists of color. Those served by this nonprofit organization – 90% youth of color – are also encouraged to take part in a contest sponsored by the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx in which they submit a short video answering the question “What moment in black history are you proud of and what does it inspire you to do?”
The work of YouthLink does not end with Black History Month – every night in Minnesota there are an estimated 6,000 youth struggling with homelessness. In addition to enriching opportunities like these, YouthLink provides warm clothing, healthcare, housing and other services related to education and employment that help young people move toward self-reliance. We rely on donations to fulfill our mission – please consider contributing today.
