MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — The soundscape of life in Minneapolis has transformed recently, dominated by honks and shouts from thousands tracking immigration agents across the city... Every night, masked agents in unmarked SUVs patrol neighborhoods, heightening anxieties among immigrant communities. Over 3,400 arrests have been made since the operation began, sparking a wave of grassroots activism.
Local citizens, including teachers, healthcare workers, and small business owners, have formed networks to keep their neighborhoods informed and safe. They alert each other about immigration patrols and provide assistance, ensuring the community's needs are met despite fears of raids.
Activist Andrew Fahlstrom expressed relief at the removal of Greg Bovino, a Border Patrol official who was often seen as a figurehead for the crackdown. Yet, concerns remain that such personnel changes will not alleviate the ongoing threat that many face.
The surge began in early January, declared by ICE officials as the largest operation to date, with 2,000 ICE officers and 1,000 Border Patrol agents deployed across the area. Federal agents have not only targeted criminals but non-threatening individuals, causing chaos in local life, with children missing school and families avoiding essential services.
In response, activists have mobilized rapidly, providing food deliveries and transport for those afraid to venture outside. They leverage encrypted messaging apps to coordinate real-time responses and track the movements of immigration agents.
Confrontations between activists and agents have also escalated. Instances of pepper spray and tear gas in skirmishes highlight the tensions, prompting some activists to question their strategies. The community, deep-rooted in progressivism, stands firm with council members urging residents to alert one another and stay vigilant.
Examples of individuals, like a woman known as "Sunshine," who patrol immigrant neighborhoods, underscore the mix of fear and resilience. As fears of federal actions loom large, Minneapolis stands as a testament to community solidarity amidst adversity.
Local citizens, including teachers, healthcare workers, and small business owners, have formed networks to keep their neighborhoods informed and safe. They alert each other about immigration patrols and provide assistance, ensuring the community's needs are met despite fears of raids.
Activist Andrew Fahlstrom expressed relief at the removal of Greg Bovino, a Border Patrol official who was often seen as a figurehead for the crackdown. Yet, concerns remain that such personnel changes will not alleviate the ongoing threat that many face.
The surge began in early January, declared by ICE officials as the largest operation to date, with 2,000 ICE officers and 1,000 Border Patrol agents deployed across the area. Federal agents have not only targeted criminals but non-threatening individuals, causing chaos in local life, with children missing school and families avoiding essential services.
In response, activists have mobilized rapidly, providing food deliveries and transport for those afraid to venture outside. They leverage encrypted messaging apps to coordinate real-time responses and track the movements of immigration agents.
Confrontations between activists and agents have also escalated. Instances of pepper spray and tear gas in skirmishes highlight the tensions, prompting some activists to question their strategies. The community, deep-rooted in progressivism, stands firm with council members urging residents to alert one another and stay vigilant.
Examples of individuals, like a woman known as "Sunshine," who patrol immigrant neighborhoods, underscore the mix of fear and resilience. As fears of federal actions loom large, Minneapolis stands as a testament to community solidarity amidst adversity.
