AMPLIFY MPLS, an original content and community engagement series produced by SPEAK MPLS, continues to shine a powerful spotlight on local stories, independent journalism, and the people shaping Minneapolis from the ground up. Airing Mondays at 9:30 p.m. on SPEAK MPLS TV Channel 16 and streaming across digital platforms, AMPLIFY MPLS offers in-depth conversations, community coverage, and storytelling rooted in the lived experiences of Minneapolis residents.
The ongoing series features news segments, producer spotlights, live studio events, and reporting from community journalists whose work reflects the city’s resilience and diversity. From artist-led movements and grassroots organizing to in-depth discussions on social issues, AMPLIFY MPLS positions itself as a vital space for dialogue and cultural connection.
In a recent rebroadcast, community members revisited a powerful discussion on how Minnesota communities have been responding to federal occupation in the Twin Cities. Hosted by journalist Harry Colbert Jr. and presented in partnership with Power 104.7, the conversation brought together Leslie Redmond, founder of Don’t Complain, Activate and former president of the Minneapolis NAACP; Dr. Yohuru Williams, professor of history at the University of St. Thomas; and Alex Leonard, firearm safety instructor and co-founder of The Ujima Collective. Together, they explored the path forward for justice and community safety amid heightened federal presence.
Independent journalists Abdirizak Diis of Somali Media of Minnesota and Abdirahman Mukhtar of Tusmo Times joined SPEAK MPLS hosts Rebecca Smith and Saniah Bates on December 19, 2025, for a roundtable on the challenges of reporting on ICE operations in Minneapolis. The discussion highlighted the impacts on families, neighborhoods, and local faith communities — while emphasizing the critical role of independent media in covering stories that mainstream outlets often overlook.
At 26th and Nicollet, the Kalpulli Yaocenoxtli cultural group held a ceremony to honor Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse killed by federal agents in Minneapolis. “Say his name, Alex Pretti,” community members said in unison as they reflected on healing rituals rooted in Mexica-Nahua traditions. Members Samuel Xochikoyotl Torres and Isavela Lopez spoke of Danza as an act of resistance and remembrance, embodying the intersection of art, culture, and justice that AMPLIFY MPLS aims to share.
As spring semester began across Minnesota, AMPLIFY MPLS connected with University of Minnesota–Twin Cities students to discuss campus experiences amid ICE activity. Students shared personal reflections on safety strategies and mental health, as UMN introduced flexible hybrid learning options. The coverage highlighted both the challenges and resilience of Minnesota’s student communities navigating an uncertain climate.
At the Minneapolis American Indian Center, protest and art intersected during “Protest Art Day,” presented by NDN Collective and Homegirlz4isa. Participants screenprinted designs by Indigenous artists including Marlena Myles and shii…she…visions, creating visual calls for solidarity and the message “ICE OUT.” Interviews included NDN Collective Founder Nick Tilsen, State Senator Mary Kunesh, poet Isavela Lopez, and activist C.C. Curley, who spoke of community art as both advocacy and healing.
For February, SPEAK MPLS highlights Aaron Johnson, known as D.J.A.D.D., a member journalist whose work centers marginalized voices and raw authenticity. A South Minneapolis native, Johnson previously worked in Los Angeles and New York before returning home during the pandemic. After contracting COVID-19 and teaching himself to walk again, he began documenting community stories following the murder of Daunte Wright.
Johnson, who has collaborated with independent journalist Georgia Fort and Unicorn Riot, said public access channels like SPEAK MPLS are “important for the youth, our community, and an escape from the chaos through creativity.” His weekly coverage airs Fridays at 8 a.m. on Channel 16, and his upcoming documentary, They Sleep Among Us, follows life at Camp Nenookaasi.
Follow his work on Instagram at @djaddmpls.
Studio Refresh and Accessible Media Spaces
SPEAK MPLS recently unveiled updates to its South Studio, featuring new lighting, refreshed colors, and production-grade equipment designed to support local creators. The studio includes three robotic cameras, professional audio gear, a podcast suite, and edit bays with Adobe Creative Cloud access. Located in the 2429 Building on Nicollet Avenue, the space operates Tuesdays and Thursdays for booking.
Community members are encouraged to explore the CREATE MPLS initiative, offering training, tools, and media access to turn creative visions into reality. As SPEAK MPLS continues expanding, its mission remains rooted in collaboration, creativity, and equitable storytelling.
AMPLIFY MPLS airs Mondays at 9:30 p.m. on SPEAK MPLS TV Channel 16 and on all digital platforms.
For programming updates and community resources, visit SPEAKMPLS.com
