Hennepin County issues proclamations: Birth Justice advisory board approved; October declared Breast Cancer and Indigenous Peoples' months

During its Oct. 14 session the Hennepin County Board of Commissioners approved a block consent agenda that included the creation of a Birth Justice community advisory board and adopted proclamations and recognitions that included Indigenous Peoples' Day acknowledgements and Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Commissioner Aldine highlighted consent item 9i, the Birth Justice advisory board, saying the board provides a critical role for people with lived experience to shape county policies addressing unequal birth outcomes. Commissioner Anderson highlighted a consent item extending an agreement with the City of Maple Grove to preserve affordable housing at six properties for 30 years as an example of county‑city partnership.

Chair Irene Fernando read an Indigenous land acknowledgement and announced an Indigenous Employee Resource Group event titled "Being Indigenous in Government," with drumming, dancing and a panel for county employees. Separately, Commissioner Heather Edelson — herself a breast cancer survivor — presented a proclamation declaring October Breast Cancer Awareness Month and urged residents to seek screening and care; commissioners discussed concerns about potential federal funding changes that could affect screening and research.

All consent and proclamation items were approved by voice vote as part of the consent block and subsequent proclamation motions.