Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz’s administration is facing scrutiny after documents revealed plans to hold a racially exclusive retreat for “BIPOC” librarians, funded entirely by taxpayer dollars. The retreat, slated for October, will be open only to Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, with the state covering all costs for participants.
The retreat, hosted by Minnesota State Library Services, is described as a professional development and networking event designed specifically for “BIPOC” library workers. However, the registration form excludes options for white or heterosexual attendees, raising concerns about racial segregation in a state-sponsored event.
This is not the first time Walz’s administration has hosted racially segregated programs. Last year, white educators were barred from attending “restorative justice” training sessions hosted by the state’s Department of Education, and similar restrictions were placed on veterans’ events by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Nicole Cooke, a professor at the University of South Carolina and a well-known advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), will be the keynote speaker. Cooke has long argued that failing to educate students on DEI topics amounts to educational malpractice, and she has been a leading voice in promoting racial justice in libraries.
Tamara Lee, who oversees Minnesota State Library Services, is directing the retreat and has been a vocal advocate for anti-racism in libraries. Lee has written extensively on how libraries can combat what she sees as white supremacy and has advocated for racially inclusive practices starting at a young age.
Critics have raised concerns about the state using taxpayer dollars to fund a racially exclusive event, arguing that it promotes division rather than unity. As the event approaches, the controversy surrounding the Walz administration’s DEI programs continues to grow.
