A carefully crafted video emerged Wednesday, showcasing Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey in a direct appeal to the city’s Latino community. He sat with a local radio station, delivering a message intended to resonate with reassurance and unwavering support.
“Let me tell you very clearly: I am proud to have you in our city, to call you my neighbor, to call you my family,” Frey declared to listeners of La Raza. His words painted a picture of a city embracing its diverse population, a sanctuary where belonging wasn’t just promised, but felt.
Frey emphasized a critical point regarding public safety, stating the Minneapolis Police Department’s primary focus remains the well-being of all residents. He assured the Latino community they could confidently reach out to 911 without fear of immigration-related inquiries, reinforcing a separation between local law enforcement and federal immigration enforcement.
The video wasn’t simply a statement of policy; it was a display of empathy. Frey was captured embracing a man seated beside him, offering words of encouragement and acknowledging his courage. The gesture felt deeply personal, a tangible expression of solidarity.
Initially attempting to converse in Spanish, Frey transitioned to using a translation app on his phone, demonstrating a willingness to connect, even if imperfectly. This effort underscored his commitment to reaching the community directly.
Accompanying the video was a direct condemnation of recent actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Frey accused the agency of inflicting “real harm” on local neighborhoods, fostering fear and disrupting families.
This public stance arrived amidst a backdrop of escalating tension. Just the day before, federal prosecutors initiated a probe into allegations that Frey had obstructed law enforcement efforts within the state.
Frey responded forcefully, framing the investigation as a politically motivated intimidation tactic. He warned that the weaponization of federal power against local leaders should concern every American citizen.
“We shouldn’t live in a country where federal law enforcement is used to play politics or crack down on local voices they disagree with,” he asserted, positioning Minneapolis as a city refusing to be silenced. He vowed to continue prioritizing community safety and upholding the city’s values.
The mayor’s message was clear: Minneapolis would not yield to pressure, and it would stand firmly with its immigrant communities, regardless of the consequences.
