DOJ Investigates Church Protest Linked to ICE Official

The U.S. Department of Justice has launched an investigation into a protest at a St. Paul church, where demonstrators interrupted services as a local immigration enforcement leader was present. The event underscores escalating tensions surrounding federal immigration actions in the Twin Cities.

Why It Matters

This investigation highlights the contentious intersection of immigration enforcement and community activism, particularly as federal agents intensify operations in Minnesota. The conflict raises questions about civil rights, religious sanctity, and the response of governmental authorities to public dissent in support of immigrants.

Key Developments

• The protest occurred at Cities Church in St. Paul and was organized by Black Lives Matter Minnesota.
• Demonstrators chanted slogans including "ICE out" and "Justice for Renee Good," referencing a recent shooting of a mother by an ICE agent.
• David Easterwood, a church pastor, is also the acting director of the local ICE field office.
• DOJ Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon condemned the protest, claiming it violated federal laws protecting houses of worship.
• Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that any federal law violations would face prosecution.
• Local activist Nekima Levy Armstrong criticized the DOJ’s investigation, contending it distracts from the real issues affecting the community.

Full Report

Protest Overview

On Sunday, demonstrators interrupted a service at Cities Church, targeting the church’s association with David Easterwood, who has been vocal about ICE operations in the area. Livestreamed video shows the crowd chanting against the church’s ties to immigration enforcement, emphasizing their demand for justice after the death of Renee Good.

Responses from Authorities

The DOJ’s investigation into potential civil rights violations was announced on social media, with Assistant Attorney General Dhillon asserting that protests in sacred spaces were unacceptable. Bondi echoed this sentiment, warning of possible legal consequences for participants.

Local Activist Reactions

Armstrong, who identifies as an ordained reverend and leads the Racial Justice Network, challenged the focus on the protests over the real issues of ICE’s actions in the community. She expressed disbelief at the dual roles of Easterwood, stating that prioritizing the church service over community safety reveals serious moral failings.

Black Lives Matter Minnesota co-founder Monique Cullars-Doty also decried the DOJ’s investigation as misguided, asserting that it overlooks the real societal issues tied to ICE enforcement.

Church’s Position

Cities Church has not yet issued a public response regarding the protests or the associated investigation. Easterwood, who did not officiate during the livestreamed service, has previously defended ICE’s enforcement strategies during a court filing from January.

Context & Previous Events

Renee Good, a 37-year-old mother, was fatally shot by an ICE agent earlier this month, prompting community outrage. The event has coincided with an increase in ICE operations across the Twin Cities, leading to heightened fears among local residents regarding immigration enforcement and its implications for community safety.