Thank you to all who attended the Tribute to Ruth Munson event held at Caffe Biaggio on December 8.
This solemn evening paid tribute to the life of Ruth Munson. Her life was tragically cut short 87 years ago and her murder remains unsolved to this day. Among the speakers at the event was Ashley Booker, YWCA St. Paul CEO, and Roger Barr, author of A Murder on the Hill: The Secret Life and Mysterious Death of Ruth Munson.
Barr detailed the final night Ruth was seen alive—including witness statements, timelines, and locations where Ruth may or may not have been seen up until her body was discovered at the Hotel Aberdeen the following morning. He then highlighted that the circumstances in which Ruth went missing are still challenges women face today.
YWCA St. Paul CEO Ashley Booker delivered a powerful speech that connects Ruth’s story to struggles women—especially women of color—face to this day:
“Tonight, as we remember Ruth Munson, let us honor her by committing to action. Let us vow to create a world where every woman—regardless of race, background, or circumstance—is safe, valued, and empowered. Let us shine a light on the stories of those who have been forgotten, ensuring that no woman is rendered invisible and no life is deemed without worth. This is our mission. This is how we care for the countless women whose lives are far too often met with violence, instead of compassion. This is how we ensure that the next Ruth Munson – whether she’s somewhere across town or sitting in this room tonight – has every opportunity to live her life to the fullest – without risk of her story being cut short.”