For the People of Dinkytown

How the increase in crime has impacted students in the area.

By Madison Amland

 

Illustration by: Morgan Wittmers-Graves

Whether you live there, work there, or are just visiting friends, you would know that Dinkytown is a lively hub for many students and young adults. Its streets which come alive at night have made it a weekend staple for students on campus. But as fun as the area can be, it can prove to be just as sketchy.

Recently there seems to have been an increase in crime and violent activity in the area surrounding the University of Minnesota. In the last month, Minneapolis police responded to two shootings and a stabbing in the Marcy-Holmes and Dinkytown area, as well as multiple robberies.

Given the crime in recent weeks, I wanted to know: do students feel safe? “I think as long as you are aware of your surroundings and aren’t glued to your phone, it’s safe,” University of Minnesota student Kaitlin Machina said.

Many of the students who live in the area are living on their own for the first time, which makes being mindful of safety all the more crucial.

“I think it’s important to realize that not only now, but always, we should be aware of our surroundings. I live and work in Dinkytown and always find myself texting my friends to make sure they made it home safe,” said previous University of Minnesota student, Nora Van Aartsen. “I also try and take safer ways home, even if that means it takes a little longer.”

I know that at times I personally feel unsafe in the area, especially at night. The best way to overcome those fears is to stay alert and be smart about your actions. Dinkytown isn’t going anywhere. Continue going out and having fun, just be aware of the world around you. If you see something, say something.