Olmsted County board response to recent acts of racism and vandalism

The following was read by Olmsted County Board of Commissioners Chair Sheila Kiscaden during the board meeting on August 6, 2024.

“The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.” ~Ida B. Wells

The Olmsted County Board of Commissioners condemns the abhorrent acts of racist hate speech and vandalism that have occurred in our community over the last several months. The vandalism at Representative Kim Hicks’ home in Rochester last weekend is disgraceful. These incidents go against the core values of our community and the principles of respect, civility, and dignity that we hold dear.

We have heard from constituents who are justifiably outraged by this behavior. We agree that this outrageous behavior has no place in Olmsted County. Our diverse community is our strength, and we believe in celebrating, valuing, and respecting our differences.

Olmsted County’s mission is to build a sustainable foundation for a safe, healthy, and welcoming community. The vandalism at Representative Hicks’ home and the recent racist language on a pedestrian bridge reminds us that much work remains to be done. The Board of Commissioners and staff of Olmsted County are steadfast in our commitment to fostering an inclusive community where everyone is treated equitably.

As the Hicks family and our community address this evidence of racism, let us stand strong in our commitment to cultivate love and acceptance of others and take action to hold those responsible accountable.

As Martin Luther King reminded us: “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”