Protests Disrupt Church Services in Minnesota
Over the weekend, anti-ICE protesters caused a scene at a church in Minnesota, claiming that congregants weren’t doing enough to oppose the Trump administration’s immigration policies. On Sunday, a large group made their way into Cities Church in Minneapolis, vocally criticizing the attendees for not joining their demonstrations.
One protester was heard shouting, “Where are your people? Why aren’t you fighting for humanity?” as they disrupted the service. A livestream of the event shared by Black Lives Matter Minnesota depicted the protesters yelling phrases like “Bring out ICE” and “Justice for Renee Good,” leaving churchgoers visibly startled.
Reactions from Church Leaders
Dr. Joe Rigney, who previously served as pastor at Cities Church, expressed shock at the incident, stating, “It’s amazing that something like that would happen in America.” He described the scene as frightening, particularly for children present, observing how churchgoers were merely trying to worship when confronted by angry demonstrators.
He further noted, “Instead of a typical Sunday, we have loud, aggressive individuals screaming and chanting.” Protests against ICE have surged in Minnesota following the shooting of Good by ICE agents, who the administration claims was trying to attack an agent with a vehicle.
Protesters alleged that one of the church’s pastors, David Easterwood, leads the local ICE office, which they claim employs violent tactics. Easterwood was present during the protest, and the Justice Department has since indicated it is looking into the matter.
Government Response
Attorney General Pam Bondi shared her concerns, mentioning discussions with a pastor whose church was targeted. She emphasized that assaults against law enforcement and threats to Christians are treated seriously under federal law.
“When state leaders fail to responsibly address illegal activities, the Department of Justice will take action to uphold the law,” she added. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon also noted that the Justice Department is closely monitoring the situation.
Community Reactions
The death of Good has ignited protests, with demonstrators even staging a sit-in at a nearby Target to pressure the retailer not to associate with ICE. A spokesperson for Governor Tim Walz stated that he does not condone the disruptions at places of worship, insisting that peaceful protests are the way to go.
Despite this, Rigney criticized local officials, pointing out what he sees as tacit encouragement of “lawless acts” against ICE’s operations. He argued that local leaders should take a firmer stance against such tactics, noting the distress caused to families and children at the protests.
“Yet the Governor continues to urge us to protest these actions loudly and urgently,” Rigney concluded. It all feels a bit chaotic, perhaps highlighting the deeper divisions surrounding this issue in the community.
