Statement on Heightened ICE Activity in Minnesota
Once again, we are mourning the tragic and senseless loss of life in our community, this time, at the hands of a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agent. We extend our deepest condolences to Renee Good’s family, friends, and loved ones. The grief, the shock, and the pain of this moment cannot adequately be put into words. We hold the family, and all who are mourning, in our hearts.
This has been a difficult 12 months for Youthprise and those we serve. It has been marked by extreme uncertainty, political violence, misinformation, fear, trauma, anger, hostility, and arguably, political polarization at levels not seen in America since the Civil War. We are deeply concerned about the impact of the current climate on young people. It feels as though this is becoming the new normal, and that reality is deeply troubling.
Our team at Youthprise is facing this moment with a profound sense of angst about what this means for young people in Minneapolis, across the state, and throughout the nation. Young people are watching. Many are confused, feeling vulnerable, and wondering about their own safety. In the spirit of transparency, we’re grappling with the question of what more we can do to support our families and partners, as many are deeply impacted by the current climate. We do not have all of the answers, but we remain steadfast in our commitment to show up for young people — listening to them, supporting them, and embracing their partnership in creating a more just, equitable, and functional society.
