In an ongoing effort to support the immigrant and refugee populations, Minneapolis city officials, in collaboration with their Saint Paul counterparts, are hosting biweekly forums through the Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs (OIRA), providing crucial updates and resources. The forums are designed to arm residents with federal immigration news and pertinent updates from various advocacy organizations, as detailed in a special edition bulletin reported by the City of Minneapolis.
One urgent matter highlighted by the City is Operation PARRIS, an ICE initiative known for targeting refugees in Minnesota who have not secured permanent residency. According to the bulletin, "We have heard reports of refugees with legal status, but without permanent residency, being arrested by ICE." To ensure readiness amidst these enforcement actions, the City urges individuals to have their emergency contacts and legal documents at the ready and to familiarize themselves with their right to remain silent and refuse document signing without legal counsel.
For those detained, quick transfers out of state may follow initial processing at Fort Snelling. The City strongly recommends having a list of names, A-Numbers, and countries of birth available to locate detained family members through the Online Detainee Locator System. Moreover, Minneapolis declares itself a Welcoming City, emphasizing the constitutional protections afforded to everyone, regardless of immigration status. Specific guidance includes asking ICE agents to present a warrant before entering one's home and asserting one's rights calmly, as noted by the City of Minneapolis.
On the front of community safety, the City advises residents on vigilance against threats to schools and community groups, insisting on immediate action by contacting 911 in case of threats or other suspicious activities. The City of Minneapolis has also responded to the heightened federal activity by launching a Virtual Resource Center where information on food, housing, and mental health support can be accessed. In addition, resources for small businesses, including referrals for legal advice through the Minneapolis Business Technical Assistance Program (BTAP), are available, reinforcing the commitment to protect communities from the adverse impacts of ICE surge operations.
A legal stance is being taken against the federal government as the City of Minneapolis, along with the State of Minnesota and City of St. Paul, has filed a lawsuit seeking to put an end to what they describe as the "dangerous surge of federal immigration enforcement" in the City. As the City Council members also express their dissent against ICE's methods, actions are being taken to keep the public informed through regular updates and bulletins. As outlined in their recent press conference, the City remains steadfast in standing with affected communities and working alongside partners to share accurate information and resources. In light of the ongoing lawsuit, Attorney General Keith Ellison has prompted Minnesotans to report personal impacts of federal actions directly to his office,
