Protest Disrupts Church Service Over ICE Allegations
Anti-ICE protesters caused a disruption during Sunday services at a Southern Baptist church in Minneapolis, aiming accusations at the pastor regarding connections to ICE.
Demonstrators from the Racial Justice Network gathered at Cities Church in St. Paul, where senior pastor Jonathan Parnell was delivering a sermon. They targeted one of the church’s pastors, David Easterwood, claiming he serves as an acting field director for ICE in Minnesota.
Footage of the protests was shared by the Baptist Leadership Center, highlighting the chaotic moment when the group interrupted the service, alleging that a church leader was complicit with ICE activities.
Interestingly, Easterwood was notably absent from the service, which ultimately had to be called off due to the disruption.
Former CNN anchor turned YouTuber, Don Lemon, documented the event, with the Black Lives Matter Minnesota group also sharing video of the protest, which featured chants against ICE.
Attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong expressed her outrage during a livestream, stating, “This cannot be the house of God while there is someone lurking there directing ICE agents to wreak havoc in our communities.” She introduced herself as a lawyer and a devoted worshiper, emphasizing the group’s mission.
Protesters reportedly shouted demands for justice for Renee Good, a woman killed by ICE agents earlier in the month, calling for the removal of ICE from church grounds.
In an interview with Lemon, Parnell described the disruption as “disgraceful,” asserting, “This is unacceptable. Disrupting Christians from gathering for worship is a disgrace.”
Harmeet Dhillon, an Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, indicated that authorities are investigating the incident for potential federal law violations, pointing out that a chapel is not an appropriate venue for protests.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi mentioned her conversation with the church’s pastor, expressing concern over attacks on law enforcement and threats against Christians. She committed to upholding federal law in response to such incidents, stating, “When state leaders refuse to act responsibly to prevent illegal activity, the Department of Justice will continue to mobilize to prosecute federal crimes and ensure the rule of law prevails.”
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