RESPECTED OJIBWE ELDER RETIRES AFTER 37+ YEARS

Minneapolis American Indian Center celebrates the career of Frances Fairbanks, former Executive Director

Minneapolis, MN, April 16, 2013: Several noted dignitaries will be at the Minneapolis American Indian Center (MAIC) on Friday, April 19, 2013 at an honoring luncheon to celebrate the career of Frances Fairbanks, former MAIC Executive director.

Frances Fairbanks was a pioneer in the area of community leadership and a woman with a vision for the future. Frances tirelessly sought to secure a cultural place where American Indians could meet. This vision became the Minneapolis American Indian Center. One of the major accomplishments was when the MAIC Board of Directors received the deed from the city of Minneapolis to the building on Franklin Avenue.

Ms. Fairbanks sought to address the needs of the community in a holistic fashion and many programs were initiated during her tenure. Frances remains an admired and respected leader in the community; her administration style encompassed all of the traditional teachings of her reservation childhood. Frances has inspired many people who began their careers at the MAIC and learned from working with her.

The Minneapolis American Indian Center is one of the oldest established and operating urban American Indian Centers in the nation. MAIC is located in the heart of the Phillips community and is right in the middle of the American Indian Cultural Corridor. Frances Fairbanks, an Ojibwe from the Red Lake Nation has been involved with MAIC since day one.

In addition, community service programs such as the Indian Child Welfare Center, The Circle, Metropolitan Urban Indian Directors Group, American Indian OIC and others were developed and assisted by Frances in efforts to educate, empower and develop youth, families and elders.

The Honorable Governor Mark Dayton will acknowledge Frances Fairbank’s accomplishments and service in a Certificate of Recognition to be presented during the event.

This special event will begin at 11:00am with traditional honoring songs and lunch. Highlights of the traditional meal will include Red Lake Walleye and Bois Forte Wild Rice, Famous Dave’s Cornbread along with other side dishes.

Please consider this invitation to celebrate the career accomplishments of Frances Fairbanks; a person who has dedicated many years of her life to improving the Minneapolis American Indian community.