Simply Superior June 19, 2020

June 15, 2020 marked 100 years since the most tragic day in Twin Ports history: The lynching of Elias Clayton, Elmer Jackson and Isaac McGhie from a lamppost on the corner of First Street and Second Avenue East in Duluth. The three black circus workers were falsely accused in the rape of a white West Duluth woman, examined by a doctor who determined no sign of sexual assault.

Today, the corner now has the country’s most prominent memorial to a lynching at the site of the crime, where Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison spoke on the anniversary. Also in Duluth was Gov. Tim Walz. The two officials were instrumental in a posthumous pardon granted last week to another man later convicted of the fabricated rape. Here are their remarks.

Also: Composer, jazz pianist and University of Minnesota Duluth Professor Ryan Frane has performed internationally and is a mainstay locally – but with the pandemic, is now composing and teaching remotely from his Solon Springs home. Frane speaks with Simply Superior host Robin Washington about his music and shares selections ranging from contemplative solo piano work to lively and spirited ensemble pieces.

Plus: Our weekly roundup of regional news with reporter Brooks Johnson from the Star Tribune and WPR’s Danielle Kaeding, and Washington’s thoughts on the joyful and sorrowful roots of today’s Juneteenth holiday.