At thirteen years old, I was almost engulfed by the school-to-prison pipeline. After being truant only twice, I was arrested and placed on probation. For the remainder of the school year, teachers and staff exploited my vulnerable position with threats of arrest/incarceration whenever I exhibited behavior other students received detention for (e.g. talking in class). […]
Laajlim Khang: Spring 2021 Social Justice Scholarship Winner
As a first-generation Hmong American college student, I have been exposed to institutional racism and the detrimental effects it has on Asian Americans. I have seen how anti-immigration rhetoric and toxic masculinity has affected my community. I have heard too many stories of people losing their lives because of mental health issues, financial instability, ICE, […]
Allison Kelly: Fall 2020 Social Justice Scholarship Winner
There is a quote credited to an Indigenous Australian Artist that reads, “If you have come here to help me, you are wasting your time. But if you have come because your liberation is bound up in mine, then let us work together.” These words perfectly illustrate the journey I have been on throughout the […]
Navigating Family Law Court During the COVID-19 Pandemic
You continue to have access to justice and the ability to defend your constitutional rights during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, in order to protect the public’s health and safety, Minnesota Supreme Court Chief Justice Lorie S. Gildea recently issued an order limiting everyone’s physical access to Minnesota State Courts. While we can be sure […]
Maxim Smith COVID-19 Update
Dear Clients and Colleagues: We are writing to you today out of consideration for the health and well-being of our staff, clients, colleagues, and community. As we navigate COVID-19 together, we want to be transparent in our communication and keep you updated on our plans. It has become clear that the best way we can help preserve the health of our community is by taking […]