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‘Slow-minded’ becomes ‘unique mind’: Somalis in Minnesota create new terms to define autism and build acceptance.
The Somali language hasn’t included a word for “autism.” Parents say that omission plays into community stigma and misunderstanding. A recent social media post from the Somali musician Aar Maanta highlighted efforts from Somalis in Minnesota to create positive language to identify autism.
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Talking to trees, the cool April air, and frogs: Michelle Defoe and her three daughters share the ancient Ojibwe tradition of tapping maple trees for syrup.
Michelle Defoe, a member of the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe, says you have to respect the trees for the medicine they provide: speak to them, offer them food, and leave them alone to recover once warmer weather wakes up the frogs. Last month, Defoe and her three daughters tapped a sugarbush–a grouping of sugar maple trees–near Duluth.
A steamy summer looms, especially for Minnesotans who live in urban heat islands with scant shade and spotty air conditioning. Need help in staying cool? Here are some tips.
Thursday’s extreme heat may have previewed another historically steamy summer. Minnesotans of color and those with lower incomes are disproportionately and dangerously affected by scorching weather. But there are resources to help people stay safe, healthy, and cool.
