Editor’s Letter: Challenge Agents

This is the third in a series of magazine themes this year focused on Collective Health. The March issue — titled “Changing the Future” — was focused on how Minnesotans are creating stronger villages based on values that respect all human beings, giving people a glimpse of the potential that comes from dreaming bigger. The May issue — “Solving Pain Points” — shared solutions to child care gaps around the state, a deep conversation we had with changemakers in Winona about housing needs, and how the Saint Cloud justice system is changing its culture around gender-based violence.

In this issue, we share the voices of parents, partners, and professionals who discuss caregiving gaps, as well as insights from Anne Mavity of Minnesota Housing Partnership about three solutions to the housing crisis.

Our summer intern, Diane Meyer, spent many days talking with coalition organizers in Farmington — most of them retirees. She shares her perspective about the unusual position of being a journalist in a world that increasingly needs people to care — not simply observe from the outside looking in.

As Diane writes: “This issue — and all issues — come back to neighbors talking to neighbors. Backyards and yard signs. Dining room tables and petitions. County fairs and T-shirts.”

We believe in inspiration and rest that come from the arts, so this magazine — our first double issue — also includes a lengthy section about books, including a synopsis of trailblazing women who broke barriers. We offer stories reminding us why immigrants are here — the start of a new series called “This Is US” — and a glimpse of Cathryn Nakhornsak’s new Lao dance program in Worthington.

Going forward, our magazine will come out every other month, not only enabling us to reduce print and distribution costs, but allowing us to go deeper in the topics we focus on. Together with active members, we are already at work planning coverage and funding of our core topics for 2026.

We are the longest continuously run feminist publication in the U.S. because — as our vision statement indicates — we showcase the perseverance of progressive minds and hearts who understand that healthy ecosystems and economies are about interconnection of the whole. Our uncommon media space gives platforms directly to powerful everyday Minnesotans who are not necessarily leaders of companies and political parties, but are working to open minds, correct wrongs, and solve local problems.

Please support what we do by becoming a sustaining member, now with multiple levels of support (womenspress.com/membership).