CentraCare Launches New 1,000 Conversations Podcast as a Deep Dive Into Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

(KNSI) — CentraCare is launching a new podcast series to “build a more inclusive central Minnesota.”

CentraCare and the Center for Economic Inclusion will produce and distribute 1,000 Conversations as they explore community, culture, race, identity, and belonging.

A press release from CentraCare says data shows the state has some of the worst disparities for the BIPOC, Latinx and Asian residents and communities. It says since 2020, Minnesota has been an epicenter for conversations around race, racial justice and systemic changes and that the role of law enforcement in perpetuating racism and bringing harm to communities of color has been much of the focus. The 1,000 Conversations podcast aims to dig deeper into diversity, equity and inclusion across all sectors. It says CentraCare has felt that urgency and the podcast is an extension of its commitment to care.

“As a healing organization committed to listening and serving our community, we asked ourselves how we can help our patients and communities heal from the injuries caused by racism and lack of diversity, equity, and inclusion,” said Anthony Gardner, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at CentraCare and host of 1,000 Conversations. “Through the podcast, we aim to deepen understanding of the lived experiences of residents of color who are living and/or working in Central Minnesota, build bridges, inspire commitments to individual change, and spark honest conversations about race, relationships and belonging.”

There are six episodes, and the series starts in St. Cloud with “Episode 1: From India and Ghana to Saint Cloud: Journeys of Service, Community, and Hope for Positive Change.” It features Dr. Sangeeta Jha, sociology, anthropology, gerontology and women’s studies professor at St. Cloud Technical Community College, and Emmanuel Oppong, Community Engagement Director in the Mayor’s Office for the City of St. Cloud. The press release says both guests have compelling stories and unique insights on what it means to be an immigrant in Minnesota.

Other featured guests are from Monticello, Willmar, Long Prairie, Sauk Centre and Redwood Falls.
Episodes are released every two weeks.

Access it here.

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