People’s town halls planned across Arrowhead

A new political action committee, Practicing Democracy, is holding a series of town hall meetings across the Arrowhead this week.

On their website, the group, led by Adrienne Dinneen and Jen Schultz, states their mission as “to engage and empower Minnesotans to strengthen our democracy, particularly in non-urban areas.”

The meetings, which the group is calling People’s Town Halls, will be held across Minnesota’s 8th congressional district throughout the week, beginning on Monday, April 21 with a meeting in Hinckley. A meeting will be held in Grand Marais on Tuesday, April 22 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m at the YMCA.

Schultz wrote in an email to WTIP, “These are called People’s Town Halls because they provide an opportunity for the community to gather to share stories about how federal policies are impacting their lives. It’s important for people to come together in solidarity to share concerns and to offer support for those who may have lost their job or are experiencing anxiety about the state of our country. Many folks are feeling isolated and fearful. After the Duluth town hall it was evident that people want more opportunities to unite. President Trump has been very successful at dividing us. What our country needs is unity and we are trying to help build it.”

Practicing Democracy wrote in a press release that they have invited local elected officials to attend the town halls, along with state legislators and U.S. Rep. Pete Stauber. State legislators are back in session this week after their recess for Easter and Passover. Schultz told WTIP that her organization has received a response from some local leaders, but not from Stauber.

During the town halls, attendees will hear from any elected officials in attendance, then they will have the opportunity to speak and share their concerns with leaders and organizers. Schultz said that they will provide postcards addressed to Stauber for attendees to fill out.

While it is unclear at this time how many elected officials may attend the town halls, Schultz said the meetings, are also a chance to engage locally.

“Often individuals will share very powerful stories; stories that help people understand the struggles of others,” Schultz wrote, “People attend town halls because they want to know how they can help their community and respond to the threats to our civil liberties. Many are worried about our democracy. We provide ideas for how folks can engage in peaceful and impactful ways.”

This week’s town halls will all take place within the 8th District. Those interested in attending a meeting are encouraged to register through the Practicing Democracy website. Schultz said her organization is open to organizing meetings in other parts of the state if there is local interest.

People’s Town Halls taking place this week

Kirsten Wisniewski April 21, 2025