Academic achievement disparities between African American males and white students in Minnesota are alarming and persistent. Destructive social practices have resulted in critical failures with African American males in education settings. We, as a state, must strive to correct this harsh reality. Our efforts need to be directed at redesigning systems, not “fixing” individuals.

Historically, MMEP’s work has been on behalf of all students of color and American Indian students, however, in late 2007 the organization created an initiative focused exclusively on African American males. MMEP convened the African American Education Advisory Group [AAMEA], whose members have agreed to shape and nurture this initiative, to create the space, literally and figuratively, for Minnesota to be empowered to act in collaboration with African American males in their educational aspirations.