The Minneapolis Police Department has publicly clarified its policy of non-participation in federal immigration enforcement operations, even as federal authorities prepare significant actions in the city. The police chief emphasized that the department receives no advance notification of immigration operations and does not assist federal agents with enforcement activities.
This policy declaration came during a press conference organized to address community concerns about reported plans for large-scale immigration enforcement targeting the city’s Somali population. Federal authorities are reportedly deploying approximately 100 agents to conduct coordinated operations in the metropolitan area.
The enforcement plans coincide with inflammatory presidential rhetoric specifically targeting Somali immigrants. During a cabinet meeting, the administration’s leader used derogatory language to characterize the community, expressed desires for their removal from America, and personally attacked a congressional representative of Somali origin.
Minneapolis is home to approximately 80,000 Somali residents, most of whom are American citizens or hold legal immigration status. This demographic reality makes local police separation from federal enforcement particularly significant, as it provides some measure of protection for residents interacting with city services.
City officials have positioned themselves as defenders of their diverse population against what they view as discriminatory federal actions. The mayor and police leadership emphasized their unwavering support for the Somali community and warned that federal enforcement based on appearance would inevitably result in wrongful detention of American citizens.
