We protect what, and who, we love: FMR's response to the ICE occupation

As we face the surge of ICE operations in the Twin Cities, it's essential to acknowledge the ongoing violence and civil rights violations impacting our communities.

Amid these challenges, it’s also important to acknowledge that the world is witnessing what we love about Minnesotans when we’re at our best. We are neighbors who care about each other, who stand up for what is right, no matter how cold or how hard.

Like many of you, we are heartened by this outpouring. As neighbors from all backgrounds step up to help immigrant populations most affected, we underscore the importance of community, respect and resilience — values that should unite us all, regardless of our political beliefs.

Like many of you, we also find that most conversations with friends, family and coworkers circle back to the surge. We share stories and attempt to trace its impact on our loved ones, neighbors, schools, coworkers and local business community.

And, if we feel we can inquire without feeling like we’re prying, we ask one another: How are you helping?

Such pointed curiosity may feel stereotypically un-Minnesotan for some, but as our city and state endure unprecedented federal actions, we find ourselves in uncharted waters. To make our way through, such co-navigation is essential.

In this spirit, below are a few of the actions FMR has encouraged or taken so far.

FMR's response

First and foremost, for those who have the capacity to give, we encourage supporters to address local community needs and support immigrant assistance organizations. (In our e-newsletter, we suggested WSCO, the community organization representing the neighborhood our office is located in and a list of additional options.)

As for events, we co-hosted a local gathering to honor the life of Renee Good with WSCO, along with Neighborhood House, West Side Boosters, and the Minnesota Latino Museum. 

After considering whether to hold river-focused convenings at this difficult time, we opted not to cancel opportunities for those who are still able to leave their homes to engage with our river community.

After a shared moment of acknowledgment at a recent restoration event in below-zero temps, it was a wonder to see and feel how restoring habitat was indeed a restorative activity for volunteers. And at our legislative session preview, Show Some Love for the River, we’re supporting both river advocacy and our impacted Harding High School partners by incorporating a food drive and making valentines for our West Side neighbors. 

FMR also supports our staff in the ways that work best for them. Those who feel unsafe work exclusively from home. Those who wish to observe, deliver groceries, or assist in other ways can flex hours or use paid time off, including paid service hours.

Internally and externally, we do not question each other’s capacity to contribute. Instead, we encourage each other to walk steadfastly but lightly, and to pause and respond with grace as we bump up against small conflicts in these heightened, precarious times.

The only thing we expressly command is not to allow ICE into our office or building.

As we share this list, we know it is not and could never feel like enough. But we wanted to pause and recognize that our strength lies in our relationships and shared commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of all Minnesotans. By working together, in whatever ways we can, we can demonstrate that compassion and community will ultimately be stronger than division here in the headwaters state.

As always, we are grateful to do this work, for the river and for our communities, alongside all of you.