Joyce Lawler from MAPP International had the opportunity to travel to Minneapois for the Intermedia Arts America Project events.  She posted her thoughts on the blog.

Last weekend, I was warmly welcomed into the community at Intermedia Arts in Minneapolis for “Singing the Legacy of Sekou Sundiata” — a citizenship potluck dinner and community sing inspired by the civic activism and artistry of poet, performer and educator Sekou Sundiata.   Nearly 100 people turned out (on a Saturday night no less) to not only enjoy the great food and music but to pause and reflect on “American-ness” — our own and each other’s.  The eagerness to share this exploration was palpable.  We all have an American story or song or dream to share, different from having our opinions to express (and axes to grind).  Responses to the question “when do you most feel like a citizen?” included when I put my money in the bank and when I go to a baseball game and when I work with new immigrants to the U.S. and when I helped Barack Obama get elected and when I hand my passport over to the immigration official and watch them stamp it.  There was no patriotic agenda, only patriotic feelings.  It was refreshing to be in a place and space created to nurture this personal exchange. Thank you Theresa, Julie, Reggie and Marlina, the wonderful performers, and everyone else at Intermedia who committed to making this evening happen, along with all the other citizenship dinners and lunchtime gatherings you hosted last week.  We look forward to hearing how this conversation continues in your community.