ST. PAUL, Minn. — This week, the Senate People of Color and Indigenous (POCI) Caucus met to discuss priorities and elect new leadership. Senator Zaynab Mohamed (DFL-Minneapolis) was appointed to chair the caucus, which consists of ten members of the Senate DFL, and Senator Erin Maye Quade (DFL-Apple Valley) was elected vice chair.
“I want to thank my colleagues for the privilege to represent these communities in the Senate, and especially want to thank our outgoing chairperson Senator Mary Kunesh for her hard work and continuity,” Senator Mohamed said. “Our POCI caucus makes up a significant piece of the Senate DFL, and our voices, our bills and our votes will help push the state toward a more equitable future. The DFL successfully defended its majority in the Senate, and we must work together with the governor, the House, members across the aisle. We intend to play a key role in passing a strong state budget that serves all Minnesotans, from cities to townships. We must also protect our state and vulnerable communities against a hostile federal government.
The Trump administration and its supporters have pledged to undertake mass deportation, cuts to federal or state programs, and repealing or nullifying crucial civil and human rights legislation or programs. It is up to us to take a stand, not only in defending the work already done, but in moving forward to make continued progress for BIPOC Minnesotans. We are ready to lead on that front, and welcome the support and input from communities.”
“I am honored to serve as vice chair of the Senate POCI Caucus, and I am grateful to outgoing Chair, Senator Mary Kunesh, for her leadership,” Senator Maye Quade said. “Black, Asian, Latino, and Indigenous Minnesotans have always been central to the fight for justice, equality and prosperity for all, in Minnesota and everywhere. Our communities know the importance of this work because our lives depend on it. As the Senate DFL works with leaders across the state, the Senate POCI Caucus is committed to advancing policies that uplift people of color and Indigenous peoples and continuing the long work advancing freedom and justice for all.”
Learn more about Sen. Mohamed
Learn more about Sen. Maye Quade.