Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can join MNEC?
A: Equity Connect is open members from all Cities and Counties in Minnesota whose primary job is as the DEI administrator, manager, or coordinator and/or have their primary function be diversity, equity, and inclusion OR have significant DEI responsibilities while serving in another role.
Q: What is the cost to join?
A: Membership fees are determined by City or County size. You can learn more about our membership dues at https://mnequityconnect.org/membership
Q: Is there financial assistance?
A: We know that not every City or County may have the means to support a professional membership. If you are unable to pay for dues please contact our treasurer Hue Schlieu, to explore potential options.
Q: What are some of the programs of MNEC?
A: Equity Connect offers monthly, quarterly and annual programming focused on supporting and collaborating with DEI practitioners in the state. Topics include communication, training, accessibility, budgeting resource management and a safe space to reset and re-engage int his work.
Q: Are MNEC programs virtual or in-person?
A: MNEC strives to be as inclusive to participation from Greater Minnesota and those who are unable to meet in person as possible. All monthly events have both an in-person and a virtual option, and quarterly events are virtual only. The MNEC Annual Retreat is a one-day in-person event.
Q: What is the calendar of events?
A: MNEC typically meets on the 3rd Friday of each month, for one hour to discuss a rotating topic selected and hosted by members. Quarterly, on the 3rd Friday of each month, this meeting is replaced by a 1.5 hour meeting that focuses on a learning topic which is hosted by professionals outside of MNEC.
Q: What is the history of MNEC?
A: MNEC was originally formed in 2021 by DEI staff at the cities of Bloomington, Golden Valley and Richfield as a way to find community amongst DEI professionals. MNEC thanks Kiara, Blanca and Faith for their hard work and dedication to the creation of this space. In 2025, several members worked together to formally incorporate MNEC as a 501(c)6 in an effort to add legitimacy to this work and the time that members spend participating in it. The collection of dues allows MNEC to host more robust programming and pay professionals to deepen our collective knowledge.