Fear of ICE Raids Disrupts Somali Community Life in Minneapolis
The Karmel mall in Minneapolis, a central hub for the city's Somali community, has experienced a sharp decline in activity amid increasing fear of ICE raids. Residents have reported staying indoors and carrying their documents at all times. Notices at building entrances remind that ICE agents require a court order to enter.
Volunteer block watchers have organized to monitor ICE movements, prepared to alert neighbors and disrupt potential operations using whistles and swift reporting. This community response comes after the Department of Homeland Security launched Operation Metro Surge, specifically targeting Somalis. As of December 4, DHS officials stated that arrests made under the operation included "some of the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens."
Minnesota is home to about 84,000 people of Somali descent, the majority of whom are U.S. citizens or legal residents. Local political leaders, mainly Democrats, have rallied in defense of the community. Mayor Jacob Frey affirmed that Minneapolis stands with Somali residents, while Republican state senator Jim Abeler expressed opposition to such views.
Reports have emerged of U.S. citizens being detained for extended durations, intensifying anxiety within Somali communities who carry passport cards for identification. The atmosphere of fear has led to medical appointment cancellations, prompting the Inspire Change Clinic to implement rapid-response measures including telehealth and home visits to support those reluctant to attend clinics.
Religious practices have also been impacted, with Friday prayers seeing about half the usual attendance, illustrating the widespread effect of fear and displacement within Minneapolis' Somali population.
