"No one knows everything, but together we know a lot."

Spotlight on: Minnesota Health Equity Networks

In this month's newsletter, the Networks would like to spotlight its own efforts as they welcome new partners and celebrates two years of health equity work in Minnesota.

The Minnesota Health Equity Networks team photos reveal a lot about their approach to advancing health equity across Minnesota. Gathered in front of meaningful locations, such as in front of a mural in Mankato or by a wall sign that reads "Do the Most Good" at a community gathering space in Minneapolis, these images capture a vibrant, diverse, and united team of collaborators dedicated to their mission.

The Networks' efforts are deeply intertwined with and centered on the extraordinary organizations and communities they serve. They emphasize that each region, community, and Tribal nation faces distinct inequities and, therefore, requires tailored solutions, a belief reflected in all team communications and programming.

"Our approach with the Networks is based upon the belief that health equity is about honoring the humanity of all people. We are all responsible for making our organizations and world a better place." – Shor Salkas, Project Supervisor

The Networks began in 2022 in response to COVID-19 and the heightened awareness of the successes and inequities made more visible across Minnesota by the pandemic. The Networks focus on three main action categories that promote health equity: connect, strengthen, and amplify. Network coordinators live in the regions that they serve and share an understanding of the residents' lived experiences and realities.

"I am alternately shocked by the health disparities in my region and amazed by the strength and wisdom we possess. Meeting with those working in public health, whether that be a county agency or a community organization, is always an honor and a learning experience for me." - Mary Mitchell, Northwest Regional Health Equity Networks Coordinator.

Network coordinators host quarterly gatherings on relationship building, community issues, connection, and collaboration relevant to the region. The Networks team also offers ongoing statewide gatherings centered on topics such as disability justice, community involvement, and shared language. The Networks customize coaching and training for Network partners based on their requests.

“I love knowing that, while some people see us as the leaders in equity efforts, in reality, we work alongside our partners. We are growing and learning about health equity together." - Anna Rogotske, Southwest Regional Health Equity Networks Coordinator.

Network coordinators engage with partners one-on-one, providing referrals and resources while celebrating successes and addressing challenges. Spotlights during gatherings, trainings, and newsletters amplify health equity efforts from initial planning stages through implementation and evaluation. Storytelling has proven to be an effective method for promoting health equity and fostering empathy, making narrative a central component of the Networks' work. Encouraging organizations to share their health equity stories has become a key element in networking and connecting partners.

"I have learned so much from the stories that have been shared by our partners in the spotlights. They really reinforce the fact that effective and creative health equity work is being done in Minnesota." – Colleen McKinney, Northeast Health Equity Network Coordinator.

Above all, the emphasis is on listening and learning. One of the Networks’ baseline assumptions is that "no one knows everything, but together, we know a lot." As part of this, the Minnesota Health Equity Networks team is requesting input and suggestions from newsletter readers and community partners on training that might be helpful and what else the Networks could do to help advance health equity across the state. Input can be shared here: Minnesota Health Equity Networks Connections – Future Training Requests

“We are working to plan for the next two to three years and brainstorm what the Minnesota Health Equity Networks could look like and feel like. As always, we don't want to do this without you.” – The Minnesota Health Equity Networks Team