Support for Twin Cities Immigrant Neighbors
The Federal Immigration Enforcement surge here in Minnesota has accelerated chaos here in the Twin Cities and is a special concern to foreign born Minnesotans and other neighbors of color who are living in fear and threats of detainment and deportation. While no easy solutions exist for this ongoing crisis, we do have ways to take action and support immigrant neighbors in resistance to the many evils afflicting our friends and neighbors.
Church staff and lay ministry leaders remain at work to assist vulnerable members of our congregation and ministry partners in sensitive ways. We encourage the entire congregation to utilize this resource hub for a variety of ways you can bear witness to God's peace and justice in these troubling times.
Learn more about why the current immigration crisis requires a Christian response with this essay from TransformMN.
If you are interested in giving rides or delivering groceries for individuals/families in our network of local immigrant churches, reach out to Pastor Matt
Consider shopping at immigrant owned businesses in your neighborhoods while their sales might be impacted.
If you or someone you know is concerned about status, knowing your constitutional rights is important. There are a number of helpful online “tool kits” including a comprehensive list of rights and legal resources as well as this printable business card to keep on your person if you encounter Immigration & Customs Enforcement (find printed copies also in the church lobby)
For public policy advocacy, read about these recommendations from the National Association of Evangelicals and write or call your legislators to lift the refugee ban and support bipartisan immigration reform (encourage your family and friends outside the Twin Cities to contact their representatives also).
Consider a contribution to the Northwest Conference "Mission Friends Crisis Fund" to help local immigrant Covenant congregations with legal fees, bonds, groceries, and other practical needs.
Arrive Ministries is looking for volunteers as they seek to keep resettled refugees safe and supported while they might be vulnerable to detention.
Call or text your friends and neighbors who are foreign-born to check-in and let them know you care. The most impactful work comes from the personal relationships we already have with our neighbors.