A message from Clarence White, ESFL Associate Director Some time ago, earlier in the pandemic, I overheard someone saying something to the effect that workers who were finding themselves vulnerable
A review from Jim McKenzie The word “portrait” suggests the image of an individual, usually a prominent woman or man–persons of some historical, political, or social renown: bodies, busts, or
Dear Relatives, Colleagues, Friends, and Supporters, I am thrilled to write this message as the new Executive Director of the East Side Freedom Library. I first want to extend my
Dear Sisters, Brothers, and Kin, This is the final blog we will be writing for ESFL’s twice-monthly e-newsletter (if you’re not subscribed, you can sign up here). In the future you
By Tom O’Connell “A small ramp built into the curb of a sidewalk to make it easier for people using strollers or wheelchairs to pass from the sidewalk to the
By Lisa Albrecht June 2022 In the U.S., “we” (the government/people in power/elected officials…many of whom often buy their victories) pick certain months of the year to “celebrate” the peoples
By Ben Werner Saint Paul’s renter population makes up half of all residents, and a majority of households of color are renters. Yet, renters are at a disadvantage when it
Written by Sophie Auerbach We are living in an historical moment when representations – statues, public murals, monuments, and more – have become contested objects. Too often, the meaning in
Written by Sophie Auerbach This is a time characterized by intense division, but also remarkable connection. I moved to Saint Paul in the Fall of 2020 to attend Macalester College.
By Chris Sanders East Side Freedom Library (ESFL) first opened their doors to Saint Paul’s East Side community in the summer of 2014. Before a single book was on the