If you've seen news in the past two weeks, you likely already know about the ongoing ICE crisis in Minnesota. But it is important that you understand the full context in why we're reaching out to you.

People in our community—many with legal status, citizenship, or green cards—are being detained by ICE. They are being forcefully taken from their homes, workplaces, and everyday places like grocery stores and schools. Some detainees are being held without charges and without a release date, some are being transported from their Saint Paul homes and held in detention centers in Texas, and others have completely disappeared from the system, leaving family members to fear for the worst.

When our community members are abducted, their loved ones are left to pick up the pieces. Relatives and friends are draining their resources in an attempt to try to find them and cover the emergency costs necessary for recourse. These families are often among the most vulnerable in our city and are already living paycheck to paycheck. They have no savings and can’t afford the travel and legal fees needed to fight for the rightful freedom of their stolen family members. They are fighting for their lives and their loved ones despite being frightened, disoriented, and having their worlds turned upside down and rights violated.

Yet among the tragedy, there is hope. We’ve seen the resilience of Minnesotans who refuse to sit idly by in silence while their community members are abducted. Neighbors are stepping up to care for one another. Our community members are walking or driving children to school, overseeing school arrival and dismissal times, and accompanying vulnerable people to appointments to ensure their safety. We have organized groups to deliver groceries and essentials to families that are sheltering in place and stand guard outside small businesses. Many are putting themselves directly in harm’s way armed with nothing but whistles and cell phone cameras.

But there is a greater need than what current non-profits and community organizations can fill. As the number of federal forces flooding into our city rises, the safety for our vulnerable communities falls—more and more individuals must shelter in place for long stretches of time. Many immigrant-owned and operated businesses are closing. The economic impact on our communities is growing exponentially.

We are asking for financial support to help cover immediate and emergency needs for Saint Paul families affected right now. We know people need all kinds of financial assistance, and they need it quickly. We are working with mutual aid groups, schools, and trusted community leaders to identify at-risk families and get them what they need right now. This aid will specifically benefit people in the West 7th and Highland neighborhoods and who attend nearby schools. Our fund guidelines are HERE.

We know that this is a big ask, but we have a big lift. If you believe in the dignity of every person and the call to love our neighbors and build a thriving community, please consider giving what you can—and sharing this with others who may be able to help.

If you have questions, please reach out. THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING MINNESOTA!!

Mutual Aid for St. Paul Families Harmed by ICE

By Mutual Aid for St. Paul Families

Mutual Aid for St. Paul Families Harmed by ICE

For Families in West 7th, Highland and nearby schools

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