ICE Is Here and Our Neighbors Are Standing Watch

What We’re Seeing on Our Streets

A Note From Judith:

The bitter cold did not stop us.

Thirty people stood in Waconia on Saturday, more than the hate-monger in Minneapolis had show up for his rally. Over in Chaska, 485 people and two dogs braved the wind and the cold.

ICE In Carver County

I need to share something important with you all.

ICE is in Chaska.
ICE is in Waconia.
ICE is in Chanhassen.
ICE is everywhere.

How do I know? I am part of an amazing group of rapid responders in Carver County. We patrol the streets, look out for ICE activity, and warn surrounding areas.

We are peaceful.
We do not impede.
We document.

This is legal in the United States; one of the very freedoms we claim to champion. When you record police, they understand this right and do not stop you.

ICE does not follow the law.

In the last three weeks, we—the rapid responders in Carver County—have witnessed ICE repeatedly breaking traffic laws, driving aggressively, pulling people out of their cars, and entering places apparently without warrants.

They have threatened us with bodily harm.

On Saturday morning, while we were recording from a safe distance, they boxed in me and another observer and told us we would be arrested if they saw us again. One agent told me that I knew what else would happen.

This is not normal.

If the executive branch does not follow the rules set out by the judiciary, then there is no law.

ICE is also using drones at night to scout neighborhoods. They are pulling people over simply because they look like immigrants.

I need everyone to understand why you aren’t seeing this on the news: people are being taken so fast that crews can’t arrive in time. Without video or a sound bite, it doesn’t get aired.

On Saturday alone, we counted ten ICE vehicles in Chaska.

I am scared.
I am scared for my neighbors and my friends.
And I am scared because being threatened by people who do not follow rules or laws is terrifying.

Please make sure others understand that this is happening here.

We also need help and there are many ways you can support us. If you are interested, please contact me.

One of our incredible volunteers and protestors has designed a shirt that I wanted to share with you. If you like it, please visit the website and consider ordering one.

Evidence Of ICE Chaos

The Minnesota Attorney General’s office has published a form for “reporting incidents or effects related to or caused by recent federal actions in Minnesota, including but not limited to: violations of constitutional rights (racial profiling, excessive force, retaliation against protestors, observers, and media), business closures, reduced healthcare access, reduced education access, other issues impacting public safety and civil liberties, federal funding cuts, federal grant terminations, terms and conditions tied to federal program participation, other administrative actions by Federal agencies. The information you provide may be used by the AGO to support its current lawsuit challenging the DHS surge, as well as future actions to enforce the law.”

SW Protectors Tomorrow

Tomorrow, Doug Chapin will be visiting us at the SW Protectors meeting at the Bellows (details below). I would love to see you there. In times like these, community is strength.

I know I usually write to encourage you. Right now, I am scared but I am also resolute.

Do not stop resisting.
Do not stop standing up for others.

We have so much worth fighting for, and we cannot give up. Show up for yourself, and for those who cannot stand there with us.

Chaska Protests

Every Saturday from 1-2 pm at the corner of Hazeltine Boulevard and Highway 41 (Chestnut) [Map]

Waconia

Every Saturday from 11:30-12:30 pm at Highway 5 and County Road 10 in front of the Starbucks and Jersey Mike’s. [Map]

SW Protectors

Every first and third Tuesday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm. It’s no cost and come and go as you like.

Please do buy something to eat or drink, though, to support our venue, which is The Bellows restaurant and it’s located at 232 Pioneer Trail in Chaska.