Resource Center of the Americas closed

The Board of Directors of the Resource Center of the Americas announced August 16 that due to continuing and insurmountable financial challenges, the Resource Center will suspend operations.

They issued the following statement, "The bookstore is closed and all upcoming classes and programs have been cancelled. People who have registered for fall classes will receive a refund."The Board of Directors is committed to evaluating the Resource Center of the Americas as an organization to find alternative and sustainable ways to advance its core mission. In the near term, the Center will return to its volunteer roots. Established by volunteers near the campus of the University of Minnesota in 1982, the Resource Center achieved a remarkable 25-year record of accomplishments – keeping a spotlight on human rights, globalization and development issues in the Americas while also providing support for immigrant rights in Minnesota.

Its award-winning programs and services have included the Centro de Derechos Laborales (Worker Rights Center), Penny Lernoux library and the Bookstore of the Americas. Over sthe last five years, the Resource Center endured difficult cycles of funding instability requiring program cutbacks and staff layoffs.

After pursuing many avenues, it became clear immediate action was needed to suspend operations in order to responsibly fulfill payroll and creditor obligations. "For 25 years, the Resource Center has been sustained by remarkable volunteers and staff. In the months to come, the Board is committed to making this transition as orderly as possible, and will work with the Resource Center membership, our past partners and other affiliated organizations to explore ways to continue its mission and key Center programs."