Mshale

06/19/2026

06/19/2026

Obama Presidential Center grand opened to the public today on Juneteenth.

06/19/2026

Michelle Obama brought many in the audience—including former President Barack Obama—to tears with an emotional tribute during the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center.
Mshale reported from Midway Plaisance Park, where thousands gathered to watch the invitation-only ceremony on giant screens and celebrate a historic day for Chicago.
Read our story and see exclusive photos from the public viewing area.

Michelle Obama's emotional tribute to Barack Obama moved thousands to tears during the Obama Presidential Center grand opening in Chicago.

06/18/2026

Stevie Wonder performs at the grand opening and dedication of the Obama Presidential Center.

06/18/2026

Congratulations to Mshale contributor Lizzy Nyoike on being awarded a $2,000 journalism scholarship from the Minnesota Society of Professional Journalists. Nyoike, a University of Minnesota student, was one of two scholarship recipients recognized by the organization this year.
https://mshale.com/2026/06/18/mshale-contributor-lizzy-nyoike-awarded-2000-minnesota-spj-journalism-scholarship/

06/15/2026

A celebration of a new $400,000 state investment in the Liberian Community Center drew community leaders, elected officials and residents to Brooklyn Park. But the meeting also reflected the evolving political alliances and rivalries shaping one of Minnesota’s most influential African immigrant communities.

Liberian leaders celebrate a $400,000 state allocation for their community center amid shifting political alliances in Brooklyn Park.

06/15/2026

The long-awaited Obama Presidential Center is opening in Chicago this week, with public access beginning June 19. Mshale staff will be on the ground covering the historic opening honoring President Barack Obama’s legacy.
https://mshale.com/2026/06/15/obama-presidential-center-set-to-open-in-chicago/

06/12/2026

From Brooklyn Park and Brooklyn Center to Minneapolis and St. Paul, communities across Minnesota are preparing Juneteenth celebrations featuring music, food, cultural programming and community gatherings. Here’s your guide to events happening around the state.

Your Mshale guide to Juneteenth celebrations across Minnesota, including festivals, music, food and community events in 2026.

06/10/2026

Brooklyn Center’s upcoming elections could reshape representation in one of Minnesota’s most diverse suburbs. With Mayor April Graves not seeking reelection and another Black council member's term ending, the outcome of the August primary and November election could determine whether Black leadership remains on the city council.

Brooklyn Center’s 2026 election could reshape Black representation on the city council in one of Minnesota’s most diverse suburbs.