‘A Precarious State’ fills a news void
As a career-long newspaper employee who has been distressed by the media’s lack of objectivity, particularly in the last 10 years, I was especially interested in Rick Kupchella’s “A Precarious State” in several respects.
One, of course, what would he have to say? The title implied that the film would present a critical view of our state’s condition that is sorely lacking in Minnesota’s big media.
It was intriguing that the documentary would be on broadcast television at all, but tainted by the fact that it was paid air time. And KSTP distanced itself with disclaimers both before and after the airing.
I’ve always admired the Walter Lippmann quote: “The theory of a free press is that the truth will emerge from free reporting and free discussion, not that it will be presented perfectly and instantly in any one account.”
So it was refreshing to see Kupchella publicly taking on some important issues to discuss.
We need to recall how one-sided media was with the 2021 COVID vaccine mandates. There was only promotion — in fact, demands — that all citizens be vaccinated, without regard to personal choice or acknowledging the risks involved.
I use that example as a reference of news media gone wrong while we looked to see if Kupchella could do better in addressing issues of the day.
All in all, he did, eventually bringing out how certain ideologies can rise into power and affect many areas of our lives.
We can nitpick about little things “A Precarious State” did or didn’t do, but at least it was a glimmer of hope that Lippmann’s free and open discussion still can be accomplished.
Dale Kovar is a retiring general manager at Herald Journal Publishing in Winsted, Minn., and the author of the book “Joseph Wore Tennis Shoes: Stories From Small Town Journalism.”
Exploring spiritual connections to the Mississippi
I just read the thoughtful MinnPost Community Voices piece, “Counterpoint: Minnesotans deserve facts, not fear, on mining,” by Julie Lucas.
It reminded me of where we used to be with discussion, debate and disagreements. The article helped inform and clarify some things, so I am grateful.
I recently attended the incredible Dakota legacy boat tour on the Mississippi River in St. Paul. I learned about the deep spiritual connection the Dakota have to the mighty river and how it was Dakota women who cared for and continue to advocate for the birthing places and stories and real historical connections to Wakpa Tanka.
Ramona Kitto Stately spoke about her great great-grandmother giving birth at the Bdote and then miraculously surviving after being held captive at Fort Snelling three years later in 1863.
Ramona, along with PBS and TPT, just released a short film, “Bdote: A Birthing Island.”
It’s a great learning tool to have
Also, Marlena Myles, a Spirit Lake Dakota and internationally known digital augmented reality artist, has released a short and transformative film called “Realms of Resilience,” which you can find on YouTube.
Please share these films. Marlena talks about how we can all work together in a most profound way.
Katie Clements Tuma lives in St. Paul.
America needs more housing help, not funding cuts
Federal housing programs are essential to Minnesota’s future. Even a 1% cut in rental assistance would take homes away from more than 1,000 Minnesota families.
That’s a devastating impact for seniors, families with children, veterans and people with disabilities.
Instead of cutting support, Congress should invest in stable housing, which is the foundation for education, health and a strong workforce. When families have safe homes, communities thrive, local economies grow and fewer people fall through the cracks.
I work at a domestic violence shelter, and housing assistance is vital to helping victim-survivors of domestic violence stay safe.
Congress must reject harmful cuts and prioritize investments in housing stability for all Minnesotans.
Kay Sheehan is manager of Shelter and Legal Advocacy Services in St. Paul.
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