Immigration raids in Minnesota prompt Somali grassroots mobilization

Immigration operations in Minneapolis have led Somali Americans to organize volunteer patrols, distribute 'Know Your Rights' guides and expand voter outreach. The Department of Homeland Security said people served with administrative warrants or I-205 removal orders "have had full due process and a final order of removal from an immigration judge."

When federal immigration agents carried out operations in Minneapolis last month, Somali Americans in the area began organizing local responses. Volunteers have been knocking on doors, answering calls and forming patrols to accompany elders and share legal information. The activity reflects longstanding community concern about targeting and memories of earlier state surveillance among Somali refugees. Officials from the Department of Homeland Security said those served had undergone due process and final removal orders. Key points: - The Department of Homeland Security told reporters that immigrants served with administrative warrants or I-205 removal orders "have had full due process and a final order of removal from an immigration judge." - More than 100 volunteers in south Minneapolis are reported to be patrolling neighborhoods, distributing "Know Your Rights" materials and escorting elders, and local mosques and community centers are serving as information hubs. - Community leaders and some local officials say the deployment of federal agents has raised concerns about targeting and possible effects on voter participation and neighborhood activity, while state Republican leaders have denied a political motive and called for review of complaints. Summary: The operations have prompted visible grassroots organizing and increased political outreach in the Somali community, along with reports of quieter neighborhood commerce. Officials state those served had final removal orders; local leaders report heightened concern about community targeting and political effects. Undetermined at this time.