Community Members Call for Accountability at Rep. Tom Emmer’s Office
On February 12, 2026, community members, labor allies, immigrant rights advocates, faith leaders, and organizers gathered outside Congressman Tom Emmer’s office to call for accountability and action in response to ongoing immigration enforcement activities impacting communities across Minnesota.
The action brought together residents from both the Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota who share concerns about the impact that recent federal immigration enforcement actions have had on immigrant families, workers, and community members. Participants gathered to raise their voices, share personal experiences, and urge elected leaders to respond to the concerns being expressed throughout the state.
The event centered on a simple message: elected officials have a responsibility to listen to their constituents and advocate for policies that protect the safety, dignity, and rights of the people they represent.
Community Demands for Action
Participants at the action called on Congressman Emmer to publicly address the concerns being raised by immigrant communities and their allies.
Speakers and attendees highlighted several key priorities, including:
The immediate removal of ICE operations that community members believe are causing fear and instability throughout Minnesota communities.
Accountability and justice for individuals and families who have reportedly experienced harm as a result of immigration enforcement activities, including Renee Good, union member Alex Pretti, and others impacted by enforcement actions.
Meaningful immigration reform and a reassessment of federal funding priorities related to immigration enforcement.
Increased investment in rebuilding and supporting communities affected by recent enforcement actions.
Restoration of protections for sensitive locations, including schools and other community spaces where families should feel safe accessing essential services.
Throughout the event, participants emphasized the importance of ensuring that immigrant families are treated with dignity and that public policy reflects the values of fairness, safety, and respect for human rights.
GMWC’s Voice in the Movement
The Greater Minnesota Worker Center was proud to stand alongside coalition partners and community members at this important action.
A special thank you goes to Fatumo, GMWC’s Community Organizer, who spoke passionately about the importance of elected officials listening to immigrant communities and responding to the challenges many families are facing.
Fatumo shared the perspective of workers and immigrant families throughout Greater Minnesota who continue to experience uncertainty and fear as immigration enforcement activities increase. Her remarks highlighted the need for leaders at every level of government to recognize the humanity of immigrant community members and work toward policies that strengthen, rather than divide, our communities.
Standing with Immigrant Communities
Many of the workers and families connected to the Greater Minnesota Worker Center are immigrants who contribute every day to our workplaces, schools, faith communities, and neighborhoods. When these community members experience fear or uncertainty, the effects ripple throughout entire communities.
That is why GMWC remains committed to supporting immigrant workers, advocating for dignity and respect, and building collective power alongside community partners across Minnesota.
Actions like the February 12 gathering demonstrate that community members are paying attention, speaking out, and demanding that their concerns be heard.
Continuing the Work
The struggle for immigrant justice and worker justice continues, and meaningful change requires sustained community engagement.
We are grateful to everyone who attended the action, shared their stories, and stood in solidarity with immigrant families across Minnesota. We are especially proud of Fatumo for representing Greater Minnesota workers and helping ensure that the experiences of immigrant communities remain at the center of these important conversations.
Together, we will continue organizing, advocating, and building power to create communities where all people—regardless of where they were born—can live, work, and thrive with dignity and safety.
In solidarity,
Greater Minnesota Worker Center
