Owatonna looks forward to a moving keynote by Seema Pothini on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, focusing on fostering inclusivity and justice. Pothini, an esteemed equality advocate and Director of Ally Engagement for the Humanize My Hoodie movement, will grace the event hosted by the Owatonna Human Rights Commission at the Steele County History Center on January 15, 2024, starting at 11:30 a.m.

In her presentation titled 'Speak Up! Tools for Recognizing and Responding to Injustices in the Moment by Humanizing Each Other,' Pothini will provide valuable strategies for bystander intervention. Her approach will guide participants towards actionable steps to dismantle the criminalization of Black, Indigenous, and people of color. Reflecting on the importance of active engagement in the pursuit of equality, Pothini remarks, 'We will not remember the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends. This silence is often not due to ill intentions, but a lack of knowing how to respond or fear of causing more harm.'

Her future presentation aims to equip residents with knowledge and inspiration, aligning with Dr. King's legacy and encouraging them to support more inclusive spaces within the community.