Join WILD next Thursday at the University of St. Thomas Law School for a free CLE! In partnership with the Incarcerated Workers Organizing Committee (IWOC), WILD is hosting a hybrid CLE on Thursday, February 27 from 12:30-1:30pm CT. Slavery in Minnesota is a thought-provoking public program that will delve into the complex issue of incarcerated labor in Minnesota and its broader implications for human rights, rehabilitation, and the well-being of families and communities. A light lunch will be provided.
PROGRAM TITLE: Slavery in Minnesota
DATE: February 27, 2025 | 12:30 – 1:30 PM
LOCATION: 1101 Harmon Place, Minneapolis (University of St. Thomas Law School) | Hybrid via Zoom
REGISTRATION: Please register here.
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Article 1, Section 2 of Minnesota’s Constitution states: “There shall be neither slavery nor involuntary servitude in the state otherwise than as punishment for a crime”. While we’ve made strides in advancing human rights, this provision still permits forms of slavery as a punishment, which can lead to the exploitation of incarcerated individuals who earn just $0.25 an hour for their work. It can also make it challenging for these individuals to save money for their reintegration into society, while making it nearly impossible to support children, families, and pay victim restitution while incarcerated.
The consequences of paying incarcerated individuals below minimum wage ripple through families and communities, affecting many lives. This public program discusses how unreasonably low wages and legalized slavery constrict rehabilitation, explores potential pathways for positive change, and provides a legal analysis on the reclassification of incarcerated workers in Minnesota. CLE credits have been applied for.
PANEL:
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Zeke Calliguri – Community Engagement Manager, Minnesota Justice Research Center
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Tim Louris – Co-founder + Shareholder, Louris Marshall O’Brien, P.A.
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Fellicia Smith – CEO, FedExclusive
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Chauntyll Allen – Moderator – End Slavery MN