Minneapolis Under Siege: Stories of Fear and Resilience

Minneapolis has become a city on edge, with residents grappling with fear and uncertainty in the face of increased ICE activity. The tension is palpable, affecting everyone from young children to long-time residents.

Impact on Children and Families

Teachers like Elizabeth, who works at a majority Hispanic school, see the impact on her students daily. These children, some as young as 2, are growing up with the constant threat of ICE raids and the trauma of having family members detained.

Economic and Social Consequences

The fear isn't just theoretical. Residents share stories of ICE agents appearing at bus stops and the chilling effect it has on communities. HmongTown, a bustling farmers market in St. Paul, has seen a significant drop in foot traffic after ICE agents were spotted nearby. The economic impact is severe, with stall workers worrying about making rent and restaurants making less food due to the lack of customers.

A City Under Siege

The atmosphere is tense, with residents feeling like they're living in a war zone. Photojournalist Alex Kormann describes the scene as chaotic, with tear gas and crowd-control ammunition being used indiscriminately. The fear is not just for immigrants but for anyone who might be targeted. Danez Smith, a poet and longtime Minneapolis resident, talks about the anxiety of driving their husband, a Venezuelan immigrant with a green card, to work.

Community Resilience

The community is responding with resilience. Stores like Juan's in Whittier have become hubs for donations and support. Despite the chaos, there's a sense of unity and determination to help each other. The fear is real, but so is the strength of the community. Residents are organizing, supporting each other, and finding ways to cope with the uncertainty.