t five percent of the total population of Minnesota today, the state boasts many successful, creative, and influential African American residents who have left and continue to leave their mark in a wide range of professional and avocational pursuits. This book honors those individuals.

Minnesota's Black Community in the 21st Century shines a spotlight on African American individuals and organizations who are helping to build a better Minnesota. Continuing the tradition established by the pioneering books published by Walter R. Scott Sr. in the 1950s, '60s, and '70s, the Minnesota Black Community Project highlights the contributions of contemporary black Minnesotans in the fields of the arts, beauty and fashion, community service, education, entertainment, finance, government, labor, law and law enforcement, media and communications, medicine and health care, religion, social services, sports, science and technology, and more. Through a collaborative effort of writers and photographers, the book profiles men, women, and youth from throughout the state and examines the myriad ways in which the black community is engaged in Minnesota politics, business, and culture. Providing a snapshot look at African Americans today, the book offers inspiration for the future and looks forward to where we are heading.