n the wake of the fatal shooting of Renée Good — who was killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in January while acting as a neighborhood observer — the city of Minneapolis has been gripped by widespread outrage, fear, and resistance.

What began as an enforcement operation by federal immigration authorities rapidly evolved into Operation Metro Surge — described by the Department of Homeland Security as the largest immigration enforcement campaign in Minnesota’s history. Since its start in December 2025, over 3,000 arrests have been reported as part of the crackdown.

Community members say the impact has gone far beyond immigration status alone. Federal agents have forced entry into homes without judicial warrants, alarmed residents, and detained people with little transparency. Civil rights advocates raised concerns that these tactics have created a climate of terror, particularly among immigrant families and communities of color.

The backlash has been swift and powerful:
• Protests erupted across Minneapolis and beyond, with thousands demanding justice for Good and calling for the withdrawal of federal agents. Demonstrators — including students and union members — have staged marches, strikes, and large rallies as part of a broader anti-ICE movement.
• Public outcry forced schools to shift to remote learning amid safety concerns and widespread tension.
• Vigils and memorials continue, with family members and community leaders honoring Good and other victims while demanding accountability.

Local officials — including Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison — have criticized federal tactics and pursued legal action against the operation, citing civil liberties violations and community harm.

Yet despite activism and court efforts to curb aggressive enforcement methods, the tensions underscore deeper unresolved questions about safety, constitutional rights, and the role of federal immigration agencies in local communities.

In Minneapolis today, the fear brought by aggressive raids has been met by resilience and protest — a city determined to honor its residents, protect its most vulnerable, and demand transparency as it grapples with the aftershocks of a tragedy that continues to shape daily life. 🕊️