The Jacksonville Riot of 1960, known as Ax Handle Saturday, was a significant event in civil rights history where 200 white men attacked black protesters in Jacksonville, Florida. This violent outbreak against peaceful anti-segregation protestors symbolized deep-seated racial tensions and inspired national civil rights advocacy, leaving an enduring impact on American society and history.
Despite its progressive reputation, Minnesota’s history reveals systemic racial discrimination similar to the Jim Crow era. Practices such as redlining marginalized communities of color, affecting their access to housing, resources, and quality education. This discrimination has left deep-rooted inequalities that persist today. The state’s challenge lies in acknowledging and addressing this obscured legacy to foster a more equitable future.
