RED WING, Minn. – A Black History Month event at the Red Wing High School with the state’s attorney general, Keith Ellison, has been cancelled by the local school superintendent.  Superintendent Bob Jaszczak explained that he was worried about disruptive behavior. In a confused letter to parents, Jaszczak offered no details to support his decision. To news media inquiries, Red Wing Police Chief Nick Sather said no disruptions were on his radar. Ellison, who is black, is a former member of the U.S. Congress and Minnesota’s elected attorney general since 2013. His public appearances have never drawn disruptions. On the the day before Jaszczak’s cancellation, however, Ellison had been vilified by President Tump as a “sick politician who wants killers, rapists roaming ur streets.” There is no evidence to support Trump’s savage rhetoric. It is true, though, that Ellison has resisted Trump initiatives agaihst civil rights for birthright citizens and also against transgender protections.

Verbatim

Jaszczak in a letter to parents: “We regret to inform you that due to concerns over significant disruption, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the upcoming event featuring Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. Our intent in hosting this event was to recognize Black History Month and celebrate the historic achievements of Black leaders, particularly those who have broken barriers in public service. While this specific event will not move forward, our commitment to uplifting the voices and experiences of our most marginalized students remains steadfast. Black History Month is a time to reflect, learn, and engage in meaningful dialogue, and we encourage our community to continue these important conversations in other spaces. Educating students about racial harm is essential to help them recognize how words and actions, whether intentional or unintentional, can perpetuate discrimination and inequality. By fostering awareness and empathy, we can promote a stronger learning environment for all students.”

Jaszczak. Superintendent in Red Wing since July. Earlier in Lancaster and Kittson. Age 59.

Red Wing profile

The city population is 16,500. It is the Goodhue County seat. The county population is 47,500. The county voted 57% for Trump in 2024. The county is 89.5% white. The Red Wing School District spans northern Goodhue County. The high school has 1,200 students in grades 8 to 12.