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North Minneapolis Community Strengthens Bonds At Family Day

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- There was no talk of guns and violence Saturday in north Minneapolis as hundreds gathered to celebrate Family Day.

The Minneapolis Urban League sponsored this family reunion-style get-together to celebrate all that is good about north Minneapolis.

Minnesota's own Mint Condition graced the stage as people came together in a display of unity.

It was a day to greet old friends, teachers and coaches.

A time to load up on hugs, handshakes and gestures of good will.

People came together along Plymouth Avenue to celebrate all that is good about the north side.

"The theme is family and that's what I'm hearing and that's what I'm seeing," said Minneapolis Urban League President Steve Belton.

Belton says the vendors at Family Day are promoting healthy living, giving families resources needed to build a healthy community.

And let's not forget the fun activities for kids.

From animal rides, to bouncy houses, a big effort was made to make sure kids could be kids and forget about the violence.

"With all the shootings, all it does is bring people's morale down. But the north side is all about community and this is the best way to express it.We are all a big community and we love each other," said Deidra Dickson.

A Minnesota treasure, Mint Condition was key in making Family Day a success.

"They came here as a gift to the community. We are excited. Mint Condition is a world class international act. They're from here and to have them come and perform for north Minneapolis is just amazing," Belton said.

Amazing is the cohesiveness of this community that refuses to be defined by negative headlines in the news.

"Not everybody up here is shooting each other or in despair. People are happy, that they're prosperous, that they're hopeful and that they believe there is going to be a better future and that the Minneapolis Urban League is a key part of making that happen," said Clinton Collins, Jr.

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