Jan. 23, 2026

As leaders in Minnesota’s Catholic, Evangelical, and Jewish communities, we represent and serve Minnesotans who live and work in every corner of our state. In recent weeks, we have been alarmed by stories of the too many Minnesota residents (citizens and immigrants) who’ve suffered under what the federal government itself calls “Operation Metro Surge.” We are also concerned by the toll this crisis is inflicting on the trusted relationships that must exist between law enforcement and the communities they are sworn to protect.

We know you have heard these same stories and may have other experiences that help you understand the human cost this crisis is exacting across Minnesota. 

The factors driving this crisis are complex, such as our broken immigration system.  But despite profound differences within our communities and our nation more broadly on immigration policy, all of our elected officials share a moral obligation to protect human dignity, preserve civil peace, and reduce the risk that more people will be harmed or even killed before this current crisis ends.

We are taking a public leap of faith and urging our federal, state, and local leaders to come together and chart an off-ramp from this crisis. Therefore, we ask you to present a united Minnesota vision that prioritizes de-escalation by:

1. promoting collaboration among federal and state law enforcement to remove dangerous people from our streets;
2. respecting the need for federal immigration reform and curtailing immigration enforcement against law-abiding undocumented immigrants and those pursuing legal pathways our own government has created;
3. respecting the civil and human rights of undocumented immigrants and citizens;
4. protecting the most vulnerable among us who are afraid to work, go to school, or even to procure the basic necessities of life; and
5. restoring safety, security, and calm in our streets, workplaces, especially in places of sanctuary such as schools, and houses of worship. 

This is a moment for responsible leadership that reduces the risk that this terrible crisis may become even worse.

Minnesota needs you to act together—now.

Jason Adkins, Executive Director       
Minnesota Catholic Conference                                            

Carl Nelson, President and Chief Executive Officer
Transform Minnesota

Steve Hunegs, Executive Director
Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas