Minneapolis responds to federal immigration enforcement actions
During federal immigration actions in our city and following the fatal shooting of Renee Macklin-Good by a federal agent, the City of Minneapolis and our state, county and local partners are doing everything in our power to protect the safety of our entire community. That includes responding to emergencies, keeping our streets safe, and protecting your constitutional right to free expression. City officials are demanding accountability and justice and stressing the need to meet this moment with peace and unity.
The City of Minneapolis recognizes the pain and anger that the presence of federal immigration agents is causing in the city. We urge community members not to take actions that could be used to justify further federal escalation or militarized response.
Immigration guidance for business owners, property owners and nonprofit leaders
Know your rights
The City of Minneapolis has information on your rights and resources related to immigration, including a guide for employers from the National Immigration Law Center.
Resources
Find answers to commonly asked questions.
You can access free legal help through the independent legal service providers in the City’s Business Technical Assistance Program.
For more information or referral to services, email the Small Business Team or call 612-673-2499. Please note that the City of Minneapolis and its employees cannot give legal advice to residents or businesses.
Make a safety plan
It’s important to have a safety plan in place for yourself, your employees and your clients. Consider:
Providing all employees with “know your rights” training
Creating a written plan and practicing how to respond to immigration enforcement
Setting a designated response person and/or team
Ensuring that employee and client emergency contacts are up to date
Find information on your rights and resources on the City website.
What to do if you see ICE in your neighborhood
With increased federal immigration activities, residents and community members are asking what to do if they see ICE in their neighborhood.
Call 911 right away if:
You see someone with a gun, and they are not wearing anything that identifies them as law enforcement.
You hear gunshots or see someone firing a gun.
Someone is being assaulted.
A person is being taken by force into an unmarked vehicle, and you don’t know if law enforcement is involved.
When you call 911, describe what you see. Officers may come to assess the situation.
Contact 311 to get more information or to report location of ICE activity.
For non-emergency questions, call 311. Operators can explain what MPD does and does not do. Using 311 helps keep 911 available for life-threatening emergencies.
You can also email or text 311 using the mobile app. Visit our website to learn more about the ways you can connect with 311.
Prioritize safety
If you find yourself in proximity to federal agents, prioritize the safety of you and your loved ones. Avoid physical altercations, considering your surroundings, exercise caution, and call 911 in an emergency.
Addressing harassment
Some business and organizations have reported an increase in harassing messages or targeted vandalism.
If you are concerned that your business or organization may be at risk for harassment based on the identity of the owner, employees or clientele, the City has technical resources for support. These organizations can advise at no cost on strategies to prevent or respond to hate crimes:
For more information or a referral, contact the Small Business Team by email or call 612-673-2499.