Coronavirus: Discrimination Helpline Launched In Minnesota

TWIN CITIES, MN — Amid rising reports of discrimination from the Asian American community, Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan Monday launched a Discrimination Helpline to reinforce the state’s efforts to protect the civil rights of Minnesotans during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"There’s a distinct pattern in our nation’s history of increased discrimination during uncertain and trying times, of needing someone to blame," Lt. Governor Flanagan said in a statement. "This is unacceptable and, as Minnesotans, we must work to break this cycle."

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The toll-free helpline, which is at 1-833-454-0148, will allow those who experience or witness bias and discrimination to report incidents to the Minnesota Department of Human Rights. The helpline is staffed Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

"Minnesota has one of the strongest civil rights laws in the country," said Minnesota Department of Human Rights Commissioner Rebecca Lucero. "Having this helpline will allow our Department to continue its work to investigate all incidents of discrimination under the Minnesota Human Rights Act while also giving us the information needed to conduct outreach and education and change policies to create a more welcoming and inclusive Minnesota."

The Minnesota Human Rights Act protects the civil rights of all Minnesotans to ensure everyone can live free from discrimination. Minnesotans who experience or witness bias and discrimination because of their race, ethnicity, disability, or other protected status in their job, housing, or in a public place, can call the toll-free discrimination helpline.

Also read: Minnesota Landlord Violated Coronavirus Stay Home Order: AG