PHOTO: Wynfred Russel making his State Representative bid
[Brooklyn Park, MN, 04-03.2024— Former Brooklyn Park City Council member, Wynfred Russell, has officially launched his campaign for Minnesota State Representative for District 38A, marking a pivotal moment not only for residents of the District but also for the Liberian community at large.
The event, held recently at an immigrant owned small business center in Osseo, Minnesota, saw a diverse array of influential community leaders in attendance, including former Brooklyn Park Mayor Lisa Jacobson, the Executive Director of the Organization of Liberians in Minnesota (OLM) Mr. Kiamathy Diahn, and Pastor of Ebenezer Community Church, Dr. Francis Tabla, among others.
A recurring theme throughout the event, articulated by the speakers, was the glaring absence of representation for Liberians at the local and state level, despite their substantial presence and economic contributions to Minnesota. “This disparity urgently calls for rectification, and Wynfred Russell emerges as the most experienced and best-suited candidate for this crucial role.
Testimonials poured in from various individuals who emphasized how the candidate has consistently leveraged his position and influence to champion the needs of individuals and businesses, showcasing his unwavering commitment to serving others.
When Mr. Russell took the stage, he underscored his extensive track record of community service and his capacity to enact meaningful change. He articulated his belief in empowering the community to be more than just a “menu” item but rather integral contributors to decision-making processes.
Mr. Russell outlined key priorities aligned with the community’s needs, including reducing crime, supporting small businesses, advocating for affordable housing solutions, addressing mental health challenges, and confronting climate change. These issues reflect the core concerns of District 38A residents, and Mr. Russell’s steadfast commitment to addressing them reinforces his suitability for the role of Minnesota State Representative.
Mr. Russell is seeking the DFL nomination for the seat currently held by the retiring Mike Nelson, and the expectation is that Russell’s diverse base of supporters, including the many Liberians who showed up during the frigid weather night of February 27 at the Park Center High School in Brooklyn Park to register as delegates, will turn out in their numbers on April 13 to vote for him during the convention.
At the Saturday event, perhaps no one captured the significance of this pivotal election for Liberians in Minnesota better than the Executive Director of OLM, Mr. Diahn. With fervor, he declared, “If not now, then when? If not Wynfred Russell at this time, then who?”
Voting for the DFL nomination will take place at Northview Middle School in Brooklyn Park from 8am to 2pm on Saturday, April 13. It’s crucial for all supporters of Mr. Russell to turn out and cast their votes during this time to ensure his success in the election.