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MLK Reflections and Gratitude
Holiday Reflections and Gratitude
This holiday season, I reflect on a year of service dedicated to justice, fairness, and equality in Saint Paul. Inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s words, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” I remain committed to building a city that puts people first.
I’ve focused on advancing affordable housing, protecting tenants from unsafe living conditions, and ensuring equity in how the city conducts business and enforces policies. Tenants and labor workers deserve a government that protects their rights and fights their battles when faced with bad actors. National studies have shown the harm that arises when power is left unchecked, and I’m committed to leading the charge to prevent that in Saint Paul.
Today, local elected officials, including myself, participated in MN DOT's Policy Advisory Committee. Together, we advocated for a fair process that includes community voices and a more in-depth study of an at-grade option to consider the concept of a boulevard. Also present were long-time Rondo advocates, representing a historic, predominantly Black neighborhood and business corridor destroyed by the construction of I-94. Rondo residents powerfully testified about the urgent need for this project to restore, repair, and revitalize their community through a land bridge and cultural enterprise. I look forward to demanding a process that prioritizes healing and amplifies the voices of the Rondo community.
I also look forward to leading on Dr. King’s promise by ensuring the city commits to advancing equity through its adoption of Administrative Citations on January 22nd during Council Meeting. I’m proud to be introducing a resolution to ensure equitable implementation of fines and fees—a call to action prioritizing community-driven solutions, harm reduction, data-driven analysis, and a reparative justice approach.
As we remember the values Dr. King demonstrated—dignity, inclusion, and justice—I call on all leaders to carry forward his legacy by striving for fairness in our communities. Together, we can build a Saint Paul where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered.
Wishing you peace and joy this holiday season.
With gratitude,
Anika M. Bowie
Saint Paul City Council, Ward 1
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Welcome, Ward 1 Legislative Aide, Biftu Adema-Jula
Biftu is a passionate human rights advocate, eager to help protect and promote the rights of all individuals. An Oromo-American immigrant whose family was displaced due to ethnic-based persecution in Ethiopia, Biftu understands firsthand the importance of community and belonging. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Andrews University and a Master’s in Human Rights from the University of Minnesota, she strives to make sure that every person feels valued and heard. Outside of her professional life, Biftu enjoys reading, biking, and spending time in nature with her family, while also staying actively involved in her local church and community.
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day at MLK Recreation Center
Join us at MLK Recreation Center to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday, January 20 from 2-4pm. All members of the community are welcome to join in roller skating, food, music, and more!
For more information, please visit the MLK Day Celebration event page.
 More details at: stpaul.gov/mlkrec
 2025 State of MN Celebration Events
Check out these events January 15-20, 2025 hosted across the state, as watch the recorded livestream of the MLK, Jr. Celebration on TPT.org
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 Hear a North Star Journey Live conversation MPR News host Angela Davis recorded last week with all seven St. Paul council members. They reflect on their groundbreaking first year in office and what it’s like to be a woman in politics today. They also talk about how they work together, despite differences, and how they are facing the upcoming political headwinds. -MPR
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 Winter Warming Spaces for people who are unsheltered: Call 651-266-1035 to find space at a Ramsey County Warming Space
Monthly Community Meetings
SPPD Western District at 389 Hamline (6pm mtg will focus on copper wire theft) on Tue, Jan. 21, 9am & 6pm
Center for Energy and Environment
Guarantee that your business's heating equipment is running smoothly with a free HVAC assessment from CEE's One-Stop Efficiency Shop, sponsored by Xcel Energy. They can install ecobee3 lite smart thermostats for free as well.
Snow Emergency Alerts
Sign up for the City of Saint Paul's Snow Emergency text and email alerts (Available in English, Spanish, Somali, Hmong, and Oromo?)
Get information about parking rules, ticket and towing, how report problems and more at stpaul.gov/snow.
Follow updates on social media or call 651-266-PLOW (651-266-7569) for recorded status messages.
The Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) reopened the website COVIDtests.gov recently, so that households across the country can order four additional over-the-counter COVID-19 tests for free. Clear instructions are included on how to verify extended expiration dates.
 Rondo Community Library -Black American Computer Literacy Class
Community members who identify as Black American have the opportunity to learn basic computer skills using the Northstar curriculum. This class is facilitated by Black American staff/community members.
Events are ongoing. Schedule on the St. Paul Public Library website.
Certificates will be given upon completion of each module of learning.
For more information, please contact Jenaya Myvett at 651.266.7024 or jenaya.myvett@ci.stpaul.mn.us.
Job Opportunities
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310-A City Hall
15 Kellogg Blvd. W.
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Phone: 651-266-8610
Fax: 651-266-8574
Email: ward1@ci.stpaul.mn.us
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