MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Mayor Jacob Frey strongly criticized the proposal to send active-duty soldiers into Minnesota to aid in what many see as an unjust immigration crackdown. He labeled the idea ridiculous and unconstitutional, advocating for peaceful protests to maintain focus on civil rights and avert further military intervention.
Protests against immigration enforcement have gained momentum since the Department of Homeland Security intensified operations in Minneapolis and St. Paul, deploying over 2,000 federal agents. Demonstrators, including local postal workers, have been vocal in their opposition. On a recent cold Sunday, one group chanted, Protect our routes. Get ICE out, in response to frequent sightings of Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials in their neighborhoods.
The Pentagon has placed approximately 1,500 soldiers from the 11th Airborne Division on standby, indicating a readiness to deploy should President Donald Trump summon the Insurrection Act, a rarely invoked law from the 19th century. This intention has alarmed many in the community and prompted Mayor Frey to assert that citizens must not respond to federal chaos with their own.
Frey expressed that citizens in Minneapolis are exercising their constitutional right to protest peacefully, reiterating that the local community will not capitulate to intimidation tactics employed by federal agents. He noted, We will not take the bait. We will not counter Donald Trump’s chaos with our own brand of chaos here. Meanwhile, Gov. Tim Walz mobilized the Minnesota National Guard, although no units have been deployed yet.
Amidst these tensions, a community was deeply affected by the controversial death of Renee Good, a U.S. citizen, who was shot by an immigration officer during a recent confrontation. Her death catalyzed further protests and ignited discussions surrounding the immigration system in America, particularly in local neighborhoods where many residents are either citizens or have close ties to immigrant communities.
Critics of the federal actions, including local postal workers and community leaders, argue that the enforcement measures are harming individuals who have a right to reside and work in the U.S. Respecting the integrity of families and communities is of utmost importance, they assert, and they aim to continue advocating for these values through peaceful means.
As tensions rise, Mayor Frey emphasized the importance of peaceful discourse as temperatures on both sides of the issue grow. The local leadership aims to unite the community against violence and to promote understanding and fair treatment for all residents.
