In Your Community
Minnesota Affiliates and Latino Leaders on the Frontline
Amid chaotic and excessive immigration enforcement activity by federal agents in Minnesota, UnidosUS Affiliates and Latino leaders have been on the frontlines responding to the Trump administration’s devastating assault on the Latino community there.
In mid-February, Janet Murguía, president and CEO of UnidosUS, traveled to Minneapolis–St. Paul to hear directly from Latino leaders and community members who shared accounts of the impact of recent ICE actions on families and neighborhoods. During her visit, she met with
UnidosUS Affiliates, including CLUES (Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Servicio), COPAL (Comunidades Organizando el Poder y la Acción Latina) and Academias La Paz. Leaders described enforcement actions as “devastating and abusive,” sharing stories of families living in fear, workers unable to report to their jobs, and children experiencing deep anxiety and trauma.
While visiting COPAL, Janet and other visiting Latino leaders were introduced to “La Valiente,” a community van that transports trained, volunteer constitutional observers to document enforcement activities and safeguard residents’ rights. She also met with Minneapolis City Council Member Jason Chavez to discuss local efforts to protect and support impacted residents.
The visit centered on organizing, building community power and strengthening rapid-response efforts in the face of the federal crackdown. Janet took the opportunity to recognize the leadership and courage of local partners who are working tirelessly to support families navigating fear and uncertainty. She also called for congressional accountability regarding executive overreach and encouraged community members to participate in events such as “Day at the Capitol” on Feb. 26, arranged by Unidos MN, a statewide grassroots advocacy organization.
