In an incident that has rocked the local community, Renee Nicole Good, a noted Minneapolis resident, was fatally shot by a federal ICE agent on January 7, 2026. According to a statement from Council Member Jamison Whiting, Good was a mother, poet, and much more, who was killed in the midst of her daily routine. The city official expressed disdain for the actions of ICE, emphasizing that "They are not welcome here."
Whiting's stern language underscores the community's mourning and a growing sentiment against ICE's presence in the city. As the U.S. Attorney's Office took control of the investigation from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Whiting cast doubt on the fairness of the forthcoming process. The council member said, "I have zero confidence in the Federal Administration to conduct this investigation impartially," pleading for the BCA's reinstatement to ensure transparency and justice.
Minneapolis residents have taken to peaceful protest, showing solidarity against the militarized federal presence in their streets. Whiting praised this display of togetherness, demonstrating his backing for the individuals and small businesses affected by the increased federal immigration activities. The city has provided resources and guidelines for how residents should react if they encounter ICE in their neighborhoods and reminded them to support immigrant-owned businesses amid these tumultuous times.
Among the array of informational resources, the city is furnishing signs that residents can display to assert their refusal to allow their property for ICE operations. Though they are not guaranteed to be legally enforceable, they represent a symbol of unity in the city's policies to remain separated from federal immigration enforcement. On December 3, Mayor Frey signed an executive order with a view to blocking civil immigration enforcement operations from utilizing any city-owned spaces for their activities.
Further outlining their stance, the Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) maintains a strict policy distinguishing their role from that of federal immigration enforcement. Ensuring their commitment to community policing, MPD officers are barred from engaging in activities solely targeting individuals based on immigration status. In incidents where federal enforcement is involved, MPD's policy dictates a response only when there is a threat of violence or property destruction, after which they would vacate the premises.
In the wake of tragedy and controversy, the City of Minneapolis continues to stress its separation ordinance and reinforce its distancing from involvement in immigration law enforcement, reiterating its desire to protect and serve all community members without discrimination.
