Amplifying local voices and actions for justice.
Welcome to the second edition of Resistance Roundup!
Your weekly guide to local action, connection, and community care. Each week, we highlight real ways to show up, lend a hand, and help keep Rochester moving toward justice and collective wellbeing.
This week, providing our community with essential supplies remains a key focus during this uncertain time. Local drives are helping support neighbors across Rochester — from the DFL’s November Food Drive benefiting COPAL MN to The Landing MN’s Purple Tote Challenge, as well as ongoing efforts to assist SNAP recipients experiencing delays and restock RPS high school resource rooms.
Celebrating and growing our community’s diversity, resilience, and unity is vital as we move toward a brighter future together. This Saturday features events like the NAACP 2025 Freedom Fund Banquet, The Headscarf Circle Story Series, and Organizing with Care: Building Community Through Solidarity — all centering connection, culture, and collective strength.
➡️ Read on for details on how you can donate, volunteer, and take part in building a more just and caring Rochester.
Featured Actions
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Give Where It Counts
There are so many ways to give this month! From food and essential drives to community drop-offs, every contribution helps strengthen the network of care right here in Rochester.
[See Featured Drives Below]
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Stay Connected
Follow us to stay informed about local actions, events, and community updates.
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Volunteer With Us
Be part of our growing network of neighbors organizing for change. There’s always a way to plug in that fits your time and energy.
NOVEMBER FOOD DRIVE - DFLs of Olmsted County
During the month of November, the DFLs of Olmsted County are centering our Latino community. Many of these families do not qualify for SNAP benefits and are facing food insecurity. Quite frankly, many are afraid to leave their homes to shop. Let's ease their burden by sharing what we can.
The DFL will collect the items benefiting COPAL MN, who will distribute the donations to area families in need. Please see COPAL’s list of most needed items.
Drop off shelf stable items at the DFL offices - 1500 1st Ave NE, Suite A throughout the month of November. Our office is open 1pm - 4pm M-F. Additionally, we will have a donation box in the vestibule, which is accessible from 8am-5pm M-F (come through the main door of the 1500 building and take the first left).
PURPLE TOTE CHALLENGE
For almost 7 years The Landing MN has supported individuals experiencing homelessness in our community. Their day center is located downtown near the government center and is open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week. They serve 3 meals a day, with hot breakfast and hot dinner Monday-Friday. They also have shower and laundry facilities, a medical clinic, and social services on site. Let’s do what we can to help them meet these critical needs
From Nov3rd to Nov 21st, Rochester's FedEx is collecting donations for The Landing MN.
Please see details in the flyer and you can email Erin Sinnwell at erin.sinnwell@thelandingmn.org with any questions.
Website: www.thelandingmn.org
MONDAY — Nov 10th
Community Essentials Donation Drive and $5 5K Run and Walk
Date: Monday Nov 10th (last day of collection)
Time/Locations:
TerraLoco (1190 16th Street SW #150) - Mon 11AM-7PM
NAMI (2746 Superior Dr NW Ste 110) - Mon 10AM-3PM
Broadway Dental Care (922 North Broadway) - Mon 8AM-5PM
$5 5K at TerraLoco (1190 16th Street SW #150) - Mon 5:30PM-6:30PM
Sponsor: MN50501-Rochester in partnership with participating local businesses above
Details:
What: Local businesses, leaders and organizations are joining forces to collect essentials for the students and their families in need in our community. Please see the WISH LIST for most needed items.
Why: Local high school resource rooms provide everyday essentials to students in need— things that help them show up to school with confidence, dignity, and focus.
Who: We are partnering with the Rochester Public Schools High School Resource Rooms to distribute essentials directly to those who need it most - no questions asked, no hoops to jump through, just needs being met.
How: Many local businesses are hosting donation boxes. Donations will be collected, sorted & delivered by volunteers. Additionally, you may join the $5 5K at TerraLoco on November 10th to donate dollars directly.
When: The need is now, that’s why we want to get these items into the Resource Rooms ASAP. Multiple opportunities available to drop off your donations!
Questions: tiffany@runterraloco.com
$5 5K at TerraLoco (1190 16th Street SW #150) - Mon 5:30PM-6:30PM
Join us for a $5 5K in support of the Rochester Public Schools Resource Rooms. Entry fee is $5 OR an item from our wish list.
Marked course. Prize drawing. Fun for the whole family! All forms of forward motion welcome!
Please - cash only. All monies collected will be used to purchase items that are not donated.
$5 5K Community Essentials Drive
Preparing for the Federal Domestic Terrorism Apparatus
Date/Time: Monday Nov 10th 7PM-8:30PM Central
Locations: Virtual (Zoom registration here)
Sponsor: NLG (National Lawyers’ Guild)
Details: As the administration moves to expand its domestic terrorism framework, new policies and rhetoric are raising alarm among social justice advocates. A recently issued presidential directive, National Security Presidential Memorandum (NSPM-7), reportedly identifies a range of progressive, “anti-American,” and “anti-Christian” beliefs as potential indicators of “terrorism.” Paired with inflammatory claims about so-called “transgender extremism” and Donald Trump’s executive order targeting “Antifa,” these developments signal a disturbing effort to criminalize dissent and stigmatize marginalized communities.
The National Lawyers Guild Review (NLGR) will bring together activists, legal experts, and organizers to unpack what these shifts mean in practice. This urgent conversation comes amid growing political attacks, including Representative Lance Gooden’s (R–TX) formal request that the Department of Justice investigate the National Lawyers Guild (NLG) over its alleged association with “Antifa” or “antifascism.”
Together, we’ll explore:
What’s new and concerning about the federal domestic terrorism apparatus
How these policies may target activists, trans people, and other vulnerable communities
Practical steps for staying informed, secure, and organized
TUESDAY — Nov 11th
DFL Senior Caucus -Southeast MN chapter monthly meeting
Date/Time: Tuesday Nov 11th, 1:00-2:00PM
Location: DFL office (1500 1st Street NE, Rochester)
Sponsor: MN DFL Senior Caucus
Details: The DFL Senior Caucus mission is to involve seniors throughout Minnesota in the political process, to provide a vehicle for their active participation in the DFL party, and to promote programs and legislation that protect and enhance the lives of seniors.
More information: https://www.dflseniors.org/
Date/Time: Tuesday Nov 11th, 4:00-5:00PM
Location: Barlow Plaza (1131 6th St NW, Rochester)
Sponsor: Indivisible 507
Details: Bring your favorite sign and fight for democracy with us! Please say on the public sidewalk, watch your step, and be peaceful and safe!
More information: https://indivisible507.org
Indivisible Weekly Protest
WEDNESDAY — Nov 12th
COMMUNITY FOOD DRIVE
Date/Time: Wednesdays and Fridays 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM through the end of Nov.
Location: Griot Arts (115 N Broadway Ave., Rochester)
Sponsor: Journie/Griot Arts
Details: Please help local families in crisis caused by the SNAP food benefit shutdown by donating shelf-stable food or essential household items. Drop off at Griot Arts on Wednesdays and Fridays (11am-5pm). *If you are in need of donations for your family, please bring proof of SNAP benefits (or SNAP card) to collect items on Saturdays 11am-2pm. There is also an option to get food delivered to you. At the end of the month, any surplus will be donated to local foodshelves.
Together, we can show what real leadership and community look like.
See https://www.facebook.com/journieproject for more details.
For more information or to help organize a drive, contact: nashauna@journieproject.org
Rural Rally for Democracy
Date/Time: Wednesday Nov 12th, 5:00-6:00PM
Location: Chatfield City Park (305 Main St S, Chatfield )
Sponsor: Fillmore DFL
Details: Join us for a Rural Rally for Democracy and show your support for DFL values! This is a great opportunity to come together with fellow community members and show our community that we believe in democracy. Bring your energy, your signs, and your friends as we show up against the radical Republican agenda!
Event will be held rain or shine.
Please bring a non-perishable donation for the Chatfield Food Bank.
More information:
fcdfloutreach@gmail.com
https://www.facebook.com/events/1213253387492759/1213253390826092/
THURSDAY — Nov 13th
4th Amendment in Peril: Surveillance and the Constitution
Date/Time: Thursday Nov 13th, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Virtual (Zoom)
Sponsor: ACLU of MN
Details: As the administration moves to expand its domestic terrorism framework, new policies and rhetoric are raising alarm among social justice advocates. A recently issued presidential directive, National Security Presidential Memorandum (NSPM-7), reportedly identifies a range of progressive, “anti-American,” and “anti-Christian” beliefs as potential indicators of “terrorism.” Paired with inflammatory claims about so-called “transgender extremism” and Donald Trump’s executive order targeting “Antifa,” these developments signal a disturbing effort to criminalize dissent and stigmatize marginalized communities.
The ACLU of MN will be hosting an educational webinar on surveillance practices and technologies that threaten our civil liberties. There will be information on the history of Surveillance and what impact does the rapid advancement in technology means for your civil rights. Representative Sandra Feist will be joining us to discuss the legislation and policy solutions that lawmakers can utilize to protect Minnesotans’ rights.
Register here: https://www.mobilize.us/dfl/event/863688/
FRIDAY — Nov 14th
Have some free time on Friday? Spend some time preparing for the upcoming blackout!
MASS ECONOMIC BLACKOUT - 11/25/2025 through 12/5/2025
If this is your first time hearing about the Mass Economic Blackout or you are getting ready for the general strike, start here.
This campaign is about building strong community habits that starve national corporations and feed local economies. Every dollar is power, and keeping that power local strengthens our neighborhoods and protects one another.
Next week, we will share more resources and organizing tips on how to take part.
For now, check out the Cheat Sheet and start preparing!
Graphics credit: Davone Madison (Day)
SATURDAY — Nov 15th
Headscarf Circle Story Series
Date/Time: Saturday Nov 15th, 12:00 PM - 2:30 PM
Location: Rochester Area Economic Development Inc (221 1st Ave SW, Suite 600)
Sponsor: Minnesota Humanities Center (MHC)
Details: The Minnesota Humanities Center is excited to host Headscarf Story Circle – a series of offerings that recognize the strength and resiliency of women. Join us for our first of three offerings in Rochester as we gather together through the shared connection of the headscarf and its complexity. “Women Balancing Entrepreneurship and their own Wellness” is the theme.
This event is co-hosted by Rochester Women Magazine with Tawonda Burk, Publisher/Owner and features inspiring speakers from the Rochester community.
Guests are encouraged to wear a headscarf or head dress that is symbolic of anything from a fashion statement, cultural identity, health related, or memories, and beliefs.
Learn more about Headscarf Story Circles program in this video produced by the Minnesota Humanities Center.
Register here: https://114699a.blackbaudhosting.com/114699a/Headscarf-Story-Circle-Series-Nov-15-2025
ZMVS Presents Heartreach Clinic
Date/Time: Saturday Nov 15th, 12:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Location: Christ United Methodist Church (400 5th Ave SW, Rochester)
Sponsor: Zumbro Valley Medical Society and United Way of Southeast Minnesota
Details: Get a free heart health check-up with the Zumbro Valley Medical Society at the HeartReach Clinic!
Screenings include blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, ECG, and heart exams.
Open to all community members — no cost, no appointment needed.
More information: https://cumethodist.churchcenter.com/calendar/event/197339011
General inquiries: (507) 722-8725 | Email: info@zvms.org
Organizing with Care: Building Community Through Solidarity
Date/Time: Saturday Nov 15th, 2:30 PM - 4:30 PM (central)
Location: Virtual (Zoom)
Sponsor: Indivisible
Details: This moment calls for organizers who lead with courage and community. Join Indivisible and Solidarity Pledge for an interactive training on what it means to be a solidarity organizer—someone who connects people, builds networks of care, and mobilizes action for justice.
Participants will gain tools, confidence, and a clear path to help their communities thrive and take collective action. Together, we’ll explore how solidarity can strengthen our movements, deepen our connections, and ground our work in care, courage, and shared values.
Register here: https://www.mobilize.us/indivisible/event/862255/
Date/Time: Saturday Nov 15th, 5:00-10:00PM
Location: Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area (10 E Center St)
Sponsor: NAACP - Rochester Branch
Details: The Rochester Branch of the NAACP proudly announces its premier event of the year—the 2025 Freedom Fund Banquet, celebrating the Branch’s 60th Anniversary. This milestone event will take place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 5:00–10:00 PM at the Hilton Rochester Mayo Clinic Area (10 East Center Street, Rochester, MN 55904).
Funds raised from the Freedom Fund Banquet are used to help support critical initiatives we're engaged in throughout the community. The Rochester NAACP also uses the Freedom Fund Banquet as a platform to honor individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the advancement of social justice, civil rights, education, arts, business, community, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
This year’s theme, “60 Years and the Fierce Urgency of Now!”, honors six decades of resilience, advocacy, and progress while underscoring the urgent need to rededicate ourselves to social justice, civic engagement, leadership, and collective action. The banquet will celebrate hard-fought victories, highlight ongoing work, and emphasize the power of community in shaping a brighter, more just future.
More information: https://www.naacprochestermn.org/
NAACP 2025 Freedom Fund Banquet
SUNDAY — Nov 16th
ISAIAH Greater Rochester Monthly Strategy Meeting
Date/Time: Sunday Nov 16th, 5:30 PM- 7:30 PM
Location: (will be provided to registrants)
Sponsor: ISAIAH MN
Details: Our monthly meeting where we plan campaigns, move them forward, and make decisions together. The meeting location is shared with registrants 1-2 days beforehand. Newcomers welcome!
Registration: https://secure.ngpvan.com/sWkcXi-6IEOzjYBfeWK0KA2
Upcoming events…
Support our local businesses!
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Support our local businesses! ☆
Community Spotlight: Little Thistle Brewing Co.
This week we are proud to recognize Little Thistle Brewing Co. A local gem, Little Thistle is known for their unique craft brews and inviting, relaxed atmosphere — but also for their strong commitment to community service (https://littlethistlebeer.com/community/). Little Thistle gives back by partnering with several local nonprofits, hosting events, and raising funds for community initiatives.
Recently, Little Thistle helped us out by serving as a collection site for the Community Essentials Drive - and they are the favorite spot for the MN50501-Rochester Happy Hours!
Follow them on social media to appreciate just how much they raise up our community and showcase worthy causes! (Facebook | Instagram | Tik Tok)
Address: 2031 14th St NW Rochester, MN 55901
Phone: 507-226-8014
Hours: Monday CLOSED | Tues-Thurs 3-9 | Fri/Sat 12-10 | Sun 12-6
Website: https://littlethistlebeer.com/
Book of the Month coming soon!
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Book of the Month coming soon! ☆
Our friend, Nicole Nfonoyim-Hara, at Griot Arts put together a terrific recommended reading list for our Good Trouble Lives On rally in July. We will be featuring one of her recommended reads in the Roundup each month, where Nicole will introduce the book and invite the community to read along. You can check out her list here, and other Good Trouble Toolkit of resources here.
Shop at Griot Arts, or purchase at Bookshop.org through the Griot Arts store front to keep your money local and support a wonderful small business in our community!
We have work to do, Rochester. We hope that these books will inspire and empower you with knowledge and tools to build a more equitable and just community. Read, learn, then pass along to a friend!