Brooklyn Center, MN-- We are aware of the heightened fear and anxiety many residents, particularly within our immigrant community, are experiencing due to recent changes in federal immigration policies and enforcement. 

“Fear is discouraging residents from reporting crimes, accessing city services, and engaging in civic activities. This undermines the safety and well-being of the community,” said Mayor Graves. 

Brooklyn Center’s mission is to actively provide a safe, welcoming, and inclusive community for all. In light of current fears, we want to clarify that the Brooklyn Center Police Department does not enforce civil immigration laws or take part in federal deportation efforts. This is in line with our existing policies. “We want to encourage all residents to seek assistance without fear. Enforcing civil immigration law is the responsibility of the federal government, not local law enforcement,” said Chief Flesland. 

For the city to function successfully, it’s essential that we build trusting relationships with our residents. This means that all interactions with city services—such as law enforcement, housing inspections, or fire inspections—must be conducted with integrity and respect, no matter a person’s immigration status. Our policies and practices should foster trust, not fear, among our diverse community. 

A list of available resources will be available on the City’s website.