Anti-ICE Protesters Disrupt Church Services in Minnesota
A group of anti-ICE protesters targeted a Minneapolis church over the weekend, interrupting services and calling out congregants during worship. The incident, which occurred at Cities Church, has sparked outrage and raised questions about the intersection of activism and religious freedom.
Why It Matters
The disruption at Cities Church highlights the increasing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the U.S., especially following recent events in Minnesota, including a fatal shooting involving an ICE agent. The protest serves as a flashpoint for discussions about activism, law enforcement’s role in communities, and the right to worship freely.
Key Developments
- Several dozen protesters entered Cities Church during Sunday services, chanting demands and targeting churchgoers for not engaging in anti-ICE protests.
- Prominent chants included "ICE out" and "Justice for Renee Good," referencing a recent incident involving an ICE agent.
- Dr. Joe Rigney, a former pastor of the church, denounced the protest as a frightening act that disrupted worship.
- Attorney General Pam Bondi and Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon both condemned the protesters and affirmed that the Justice Department is investigating the incident.
- Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s office clarified that he does not endorse interrupting church services, urging peaceful protests.
Full Report
Protesters Disrupt Service
During a Sunday service at Cities Church, protesters entered the sanctuary and began shouting at congregants, demanding to know why they were not participating in anti-ICE demonstrations. The disruption prompted a swift and severe reaction from church leaders and local officials, who characterized the act as an intimidation campaign against individuals exercising their right to worship.
Dr. Joe Rigney expressed dismay at the confrontation, stating, “It’s remarkable to see that sort of thing in America,” and criticized the atmosphere of fear created by the protest. Rigney described the disruptive behavior as an affront to the sanctity of worship, intensifying feelings of concern not only among churchgoers but also within the broader community.
Government Response
In response to the protests, Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a statement affirming the federal government’s commitment to prosecuting any acts of lawlessness. She stressed the importance of upholding both the rule of law and the rights of individuals to practice their faith without harassment. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon echoed these sentiments, stating that the Justice Department is taking the incident seriously as part of its investigation.
Community Reactions
The protest follows broader tensions in Minnesota surrounding immigration policy, exacerbated by the recent fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent, who claimed she attempted to ram him with her vehicle. Activists associated with the protest have publicly called for accountability and reform regarding ICE operations, particularly emphasizing the alleged violent tactics used by agents during enforcement actions.
Governor Walz’s office maintained that while people are entitled to express their views, the disruption of religious services is unacceptable. Rigney criticized the governor for allegedly fostering an environment conducive to such protests, suggesting that officials could do more to discourage intimidation tactics employed by activists.
Context & Previous Events
This incident is part of a growing movement against ICE operations in Minnesota. Protests have escalated following the controversial actions of federal agents, especially in the wake of Renee Good’s death. Increasing public discourse around ICE’s methods has led to heightened activism and civil disobedience aimed at challenging the agency’s practices and the broader implications for immigrant communities.
The Justice Department has indicated it will closely monitor the situation to ensure that constitutional rights are preserved while addressing the challenges posed by civil unrest.
