On the five-year anniversary of George Floyd’s murder, the Star Tribune published coverage highlighting preservation efforts of street art and murals created by activists, marking a notable shift toward a more balanced and affirming narrative that recognizes the cultural and communal significance of protest movements.

Star Tribune newsroom workers, represented by the Minnesota Newspaper and Communications Guild (TNG-CWA Local 37002), ratified a new contract featuring significant wage increases, a one-time bonus, enhanced paid parental leave, paid wellness days, and the addition of MLK Jr. Day as a paid holiday. This represents a historic win for workers, being the best contract terms since before the company entered bankruptcy in 2006.

The Star Tribune's coverage on May 31, 2020, used language such as 'show of strength' to describe the governor's response and the National Guard deployment, framing the protests as instances of lawlessness and delegitimizing dissent. This retrospective analysis highlights how such coverage contributed to undermining the protest movement following George Floyd's murder.

In the immediate aftermath of George Floyd's murder in 2020, the Star Tribune framed the state response by describing the governor's mobilization of the Minnesota National Guard as a 'show of strength' and used language that delegitimized protest actions by characterizing them as part of a 'lawless rampage'. This approach contributed to a narrative that undermined the legitimacy of social justice protests at the time.

Star Tribune published an investigative report analyzing Minnesota lobbying reports, revealing extensive spending by business groups to influence state lawmakers. This report demonstrates the paper's commitment to transparency and accountability in the political process.