MidWest Mixed works to expand our understanding of race and identity through courageous conversations, arts engagement, educational outreach, and a biennial conference.

In 2014 Alissa Paris and Owen Duckworth decided to host and facilitate a series of recurring dialogue spaces for mixed race people in midwest. The response from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. In 2015, members of the dialogue group formed a committee to plan the first MidWest Mixed Conference, in hopes of reaching more people. In 2017 that vision was realized and the first MidWest Mixed Conference convened in St. Paul MN. Members of that original planning team came together to continue this work and formed MidWest Mixed. 

We are a group of community members and friends all dedicated to making space for courageous conversations. In a nation and world that has a growing number of people who identify as mixed race, we see the urgency of shining light on the diverse experiences of mixed people and families, as well as putting forward stories that can both unite us, and also deepen our analysis of the state of racial issues in this world. The goal of MWM is not to divide, but to provide safer spaces to move deeply into our authentic selves. MWM works to bring thoughtful programming for mixed race people and families to the Twin Cities community.

Meet the team