Statement Concerning ICE in Minnesota

News about ICE in Minnesota has been everywhere this month. Many of the people who have been directly affected include refugees and asylum seekers - the people IAFR has been serving since 2009. IAFR has released the following statement to offer perspective, clarity, and hope in these difficult times.

IAFR Statement Concerning ICE Activity in Minnesota

International Association for Refugees (IAFR) stands firm in the belief that all people are made in the image of God, and that this truth calls us to act with love, compassion, and justice. In light of the recent ICE actions in Minnesota, particularly in the Twin Cities, we are reminded of our sacred duty to love our neighbors as ourselves. This is not just a call to words, but to action. A call to stand with those who are most vulnerable, to offer sanctuary to the displaced, and to protect those who are being unjustly targeted.

We see the image of God in the faces of our immigrant neighbors, and in the selfless acts of those who walk alongside them. It is in the hands that offer food, shelter, and safety; in the voices that lift prayers of hope and protection; in the hearts of those who march through snow and ice to ensure no one faces their fears alone. We see God’s love in the courageous individuals and grassroots networks who rise up to defend the dignity of all people, particularly in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and communities across the state and nation.

As followers of Christ, we are called to love God and love our neighbors, especially those who are suffering and vulnerable. We are troubled and heartbroken when we see policies and actions that misrepresent and harm our immigrant neighbors. We grieve when families are torn apart, when individuals are taken from their homes, workplaces, and places of worship. We struggle to understand how we can call ourselves a nation of justice and compassion when peaceful, unarmed individuals standing in solidarity with the vulnerable are met with violence, arrests, and persecution.

As Christians, we are called to uphold justice, speak out against injustice, and show mercy to those in need. We cannot remain silent in the face of violence and dehumanization.

The mission of IAFR has always been to provide hope and help to those displaced by violence and fear. It is painful to witness that many of those we serve came to the United States seeking refuge from the very threats they now face in our own communities. Yet, in the midst of sorrow, we are filled with gratitude for the many partners who join us in this sacred work. Together, we continue to provide a safe haven for those who need it most, and to extend a message of love, care, and compassion to all of God’s children—here in the U.S. and across Africa and Europe.

We call on our fellow Christians, our communities, and our leaders to respond with love and compassion. Let us be a light in the darkness, showing the world that there is always a place of welcome and refuge for those who are seeking safety and peace.

We believe that love is stronger than fear, and that when we act in faith, we can build a more compassionate and just society.