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Dear neighbors,
Even though there have been announcements about ICE agents withdrawing from the state, I want to be clear- this is not the extent of the kind of pullback our communities are demanding. We need ICE gone entirely. I am deeply proud of who we are as a community; proud of how we have stood up for one another, protected our neighbors, and taken care of ourselves. We must stay vigilant and we cannot take these announcements at face value. Earlier this week, I shared my own experience with ICE agents on my block and it reinforced for me just how important it is that we stay alert, connected, and committed to each other.
At the same time, I want to encourage everyone to find moments of joy and rest where you can, we need each other well and whole. Thank you to MIRAC, Defend 612, Cedar Riverside Protection Alliance, UNIDOS, CANDO, and to all of our protectors for keeping us safe, for keeping us connected, and for showing what community care truly looks like.
With wellness,
 We recognize that the current surge of federal immigration enforcement is affecting the communities we serve. Our county is committed to supporting you with compassion now and always.
Hennepin County can help. Eligible households can reconnect to services. Reach out for help with education, food, health, housing and income.
Our Office of Multicultural Services can help connect anyone to county and community resources in their preferred language. Find services, resources, and county policies and actions here. Resources include the following and more.
Cope: mobile crisis response
Serves anyone in Hennepin County who needs an urgent mental health response. Cope has bilingual and bicultural staff available 24/7 for face-to-face, phone, and video visits and uses interpreters when needed. Learn more about Cope: mobile crisis response.
Family response and stabilization
Helps with immediate, in-person support and stabilization for youth and their parents/caregivers. Services are available 24/7. Learn more about family response and stabilization service.
Tenant Resource Connection
Offers eviction prevention resources if you are at risk of losing your housing. Learn more about eviction prevention.
Adult Representation Services
Provides legal help to people experiencing poverty in civil cases. We advocate for our clients’ rights and provide legal services in several different areas including immigration.
Engagement with us is confidential. We do not share information outside Adult Representation Services without client consent.
Phone or in-person interpreters are available.
Please contact us by phone or email prior to coming into the office so we can arrange for this service. Learn more about Adult Representation Services.
RentHelpMN - Emergency Rental Assistance
 If you have past due rent and are at risk of losing your housing, see if you are eligible for help paying rent through RentHelpHennepin.
Citizenship status is not required for our emergency rental assistance program.
If you have an eviction or other legal case filed against you, visit Adult Representation Services at Hennepin.us/ARS.
Keep reading to learn more here:
- Where to call for help
- What you qualify for
- What your rights are
When you get behind on rent, there are several steps that have to be taken between the first missed payment and being removed from your home.
30-Day Notice
You must be given proper written notice, at least 30 days before your landlord can file papers with the court. This notice must include information about legal help and rental assistance. This is not an eviction; you are not being forced to leave at this stage.
After 30 days
- The landlord files an eviction complaint with the court. The court will schedule a hearing.
- The court will send a summons to the tenant 7-14 days before scheduled hearing.
- At Housing Court for the hearing, the case will either be settled or will go to trial in front of a referee or judge.
- Hennepin County’s no-cost legal representation, Adult Representation Services (ARS), is available to all low-income tenants with an eviction filing.
- Residents with an upcoming housing court hearing have at least two options available to them:
- A remote hearing can be requested, per a statewide “Remote & In-Person Hearings” policy, by filing a letter with the court; and/or
- A resident’s attorney (whether ARS or otherwise) can attend housing court hearings without the resident present, so long as the resident has consulted with their attorney, prior to the court hearing.
- If the tenant loses the trial or does not follow the terms of settlement, a “writ of recovery” is issued. This is the official eviction.
Elevate Hennepin
We stand with all local businesses, and all the business owners and workers that sustain our economy.
Intensified federal immigration enforcement has hit small business especially hard in our region, particularly those in immigrant communities. Impacts include steep revenue declines, temporary closures, staffing challenges and disruptions to customer engagement.
Elevate Hennepin advisors are here to support and guide business owners through this exceptionally challenging time and recover for the long term.
Reach out to an advisor today, connect with a Business Navigator, and explore our curated list of resources, to respond to this disruption.
We are here for you to offer timely information, and connect you with available resources as we navigate these unprecedented times. We can find strength in the courage, determination, and resiliency we see in communities throughout the county in the face of this crisis.
Check out our latest newsletter to find resources for this moment and sign up to stay in the know.
National Missing Persons Day - February 3rd
 Unidentified Persons project
The Medical Examiner’s Office is actively working to identify these unknown persons. This work is a collaborative effort with partners across the state and nation, including the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) and the Minnesota Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives Office.
Hennepin County officials are asking for the public’s help identifying dozens of people whose deaths have gone unsolved.
The cases are highlighted as part of National Missing Persons Day that took place on Tuesday, February 3rd. National Missing Persons Day recognizes the thousands of people reported missing or found unidentified across the United States each year.
If you have information about these cases, call the Medical Examiner’s Office: 612-215-6300
hennepin.us/unidentified-persons-project
Plastic-Free Challenge
 Kickstart your plastic-free journey with the Plastic-Free Challenge in February! Get started by signing up, joining or creating a team, and creating your profile. Then browse the categories and actions, check off the actions you already take, and select up to five one-time actions and five daily actions to make progress on during the four-week challenge.
You could focus on learning about plastic recycling, making plastic-free swaps, or advocating for changes in your community. As part of a community acting together, see how our individual actions add up to a big impact!
My office receive 300+ emails from county residents expressing their concerns with the Sheriff's office and their behavior in our community. Thank you to the residents and community members who contacted my office and other elected officials.
Below is the following response from County Administration:
"The Hennepin County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) does not conduct civil immigration enforcement. HCSO will respond to emergency calls and situations that may become violent throughout the County. Federal Protective Services is responsible for providing security for the Whipple Federal Building, its parking lot and surrounding curtilage. The HCSO has primary law enforcement responsibility near the Whipple Federal Building because no other local law enforcement agency is assigned to that area of the County. The HCSO has had an increased presence near the Whipple Federal Building to maintain public safety. The HCSO does not have the legal ability to interfere with or obstruct federal agents who are performing civil immigration enforcement.
County administration has been in communication with HCSO regarding its activities at the Whipple Federal Building and the incidents raised to county officials. Use of force by HCSO deputies is subject to an internal review process. The HCSO has made several arrests over the past several weeks near the Whipple Building related to criminal violations, including property damage, obstructing legal process and assault charges.
The HCSO’s law enforcement decisions (including those at the Whipple Building) are determined by the Sheriff, and such decisions cannot be directed by County Administration or the County Board. Because the Sheriff is an independent elected office, the County Board’s authority is limited to setting the HCSO’s operating budget and approval of capital projects for the HCSO."
Please reach out to Sheriff Witt with your concerns: Dawanna.Witt@hennepin.us; Phone: 612-348-3744
Letter for Withdrawal of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in MN
 Two weeks ago, the Board of Commissioners passed a Board Action Request (BAR) denouncing ICE presence in Hennepin County. we introduced a resolution calling for the immediate end to ICE’s horrendous presence in the county. Yesterday we passed an updated version condemning the murder of Alex Pretti.
Some key points include:
- We condemn the vicious killing of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.
- We call for an independent investigation of their killings to be done by the BCA.
- We demand ICE personnel leave Minnesota immediately.
Read the full document and our commitment to residents here:
Thank you to all of the residents that took time out of the day to testify before the board regarding ICE's presence in our communities.
Read the full document and our commitment to residents HERE.
If you experience issues accessing the full document, please contact natasha.rice@hennepin.us
Request to End Operation Metro Surge and Close the Detention Facility at the Whipple Building
 On Tuesday my office joined colleagues Commissioner Heather Edelson (District 6) and Chair Irene Fernando (District 2) in calling on Tom Homan to provide a clear timeline and plan to end Operation Metro Surge.
We are also calling for the Whipple Federal Building to not be used as a detention facility.
Our communities deserve stability, safety, and humane treatment. Minnesota needs peace, not fear. We will continue to speak up until it is restored.
Hennepin County Leadership Appointments
 On Tuesday, January 28th, the Board approved the appointments of our new Assistant County Administrator of Health, Sara Hollie and Human Services, David Hewitt. These leaders have been incredible to work with over the years and are incredibly knowledgeable and innovative thought leaders. Our Health and Human Services lines of business are in GREAT hands! Meet the leaders.
County and regional
- Cedar Riverside Partnership, member
- Health Committee, chair
- Hennepin County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA), chair
- Hennepin County Regional Railroad Authority (HCRRA), member
- Human Services Committee, vice-chair
- Intergovernmental Relations Committee, co-chair
- Heading Home Hennepin, co-chair
- Hennepin Health, member
- Lake Street Greenway Partnership, chair
- Metropolitan Mosquito Control District, member
- Minneapolis Planning Commission, member
State
- Association of Minnesota Counties (AMC) voting delegate
- AMC General Government, member
- AMC Minnesota African American Family Preservation and Child Welfare Disproportionality Act (MAAFPCWDA) statewide workgroup, member
- State Community Health Services Advisory Committee (SCHSAC), member
National
- National Association of Counties (NACo), member
- Community, Economic and Workforce Development Committee (NACo), Chair
- Healthy Counties Initiative (NACo), member
- Large Urban County Caucus (NACo), member
 Monday, January 5th was the first meeting of the Minneapolis Planning Commission where three members were sworn in, including newly-elected Park Board Commissioner Jason Garcia!
 The following day, we held our first organizational meeting of the full Hennepin County Board of Commissioners, Regional Rail Authority and Hennepin Healthcare Systems Board for 2026!
Delighted to nominate my colleague, Chair Irene Fernando - Hennepin County Commissioner District 2, to continue her leadership as our Board Chair.
Metro ICE Out Reports by Local Elected Officials
 On Wednesday, January 14th, I joined council members, state representatives and senators, school board members, and community members to speak out against Operation Metro Surge and the violent effect it's had on community. We announced the beginning of weekly updates Metro ICE Out reports.
Since then, local elected officials across the Twin Cities have begun providing regularly scheduled briefings on the Multi-jurisdictional response to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Minneapolis and Minnesota.
Hosted by Minneapolis City Council Member and Chair of the Intergovernmental Relations Committee, Aurin Chowdhury, local elected officials provide the public with the most up-to-date updates and resources from various jurisdictions in response to this escalated federal enforcement.
Elected officials have included State Senators, State House Representatives, Hennepin County Leaders, City Council Members, School Board Members, and Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Members.
The briefings are livestreamed and recorded on YouTube every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at Noon.
Please subscribe to the channel to stay in the know during these difficult times.
Request for Eviction Moratorium
 Last week, I sent Governor Walz an email urgently requesting an eviction moratorium. Rent was due February 1st and many Minnesotans that have been sheltering in place due to the inhumane behavior of ICE are experiencing financial strains in paying their rent. Relying solely on the generosity of neighbors is not fair or feasible.
1.10.26 Know Your Rights Training Town Hall
Last month, I joined local elected officials including Senator Omar Fateh (62), Representative Aisha Gomez (62A), Councilmember Soren Stevenson (Ward 8) and Councilmember Jason Chavez (Ward 9). We had a powerful gathering where we had an updated Know Your Rights Training for encounters with ICE. Thank you Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (MN-05) for for helping to convene our panel discussion and training. Thank you to our experts that educated us on how to protect ourselves and our communities at this time, and thank you to everyone that came!
Rep. Omar & Rep. Jayapal’s Field Hearing
 On the morning of Friday, January 16, 2026, I joined community members at the Minnesota Senate Building for Rep. Omar & Rep. Jayapal’s Field Hearing, “Kidnapped and Disappeared: Trump’s Deadly Assault on Minnesota". 28 members of Congress were present to listen to testimony from those that have been brutalized and falsely imprisoned by ICE and those that are fighting for them. ICE personnel need to leave now and our congress needs to help make that happen. Stop continued funding for ICE operations.
Beacon's Annual Congregational Convening
 Last month, I had the honor of being a panelist for the 2026 Convening of Beacon Interfaith Housing Collaborative called Faith in Home. Alongside state partners Rinal Ray and Cathy ten Broeke, Assistant Commissioners of Minnesota Housing, and my colleague across the river Mai Chong Xiong, Ramsey County Commissioner District 6, we committed to continued partnership in our shared goal of homes for all. Everyone deserves housing no matter who you are and we affirmed our duty to make ending homelessness a reality. Thankful to all who came and all who share this commitment.
A Good Legacy Community Gathering
 Earlier last month, I was surrounded by community, love, joy and hope all thanks to an incredible community gathering hosted at Sabathani Community Center by the wonderful young leaders of the Somali American Leadership Table! From spoken word to the greatest band on the Southside, we are reminded that joy is resistance and there is power in unity across the diaspora.
Happy Black History Month from the D4 team!
We cherish as an office Black heritage across the diaspora. We encourage you to take some time to learn about local Black history and intentionally support Black owned businesses and organizations.
 District 4 office visiting Dripping Roots juice bar off of Minnehaha and E 40th St
Black History at Hosmer Library
Mapping the Old Southside
 When: Saturday, February 7th from 2:00 - 3:00 PM
Where: Hosmer Library; 347 E 36th St, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Uncover the legacy of Black leaders, businesses, gathering places, and institutions that emerged from this cherished neighborhood in what is now known as the Bryant, Central, and Regina Neighborhoods of South Minneapolis.
Collaborator: University of Minnesota Libraries' Mapping Prejudice Project.
Registration Required: Register for event
Film Screening: Spotlight on Minnesota's Triumphant African American Community
 When: Saturday, February 21st from 11:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Where: Hosmer Library; 347 E 36th St, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Spotlight on Minnesota’s Triumphant African American Community” is the new documentary by Minnesota's Black Community Project directed and produced by Craig Rice and MindTwist Studio, LLC, Production Company.
This film screening will provide a glimpse of what intergenerational African American success looks like in Minnesota in the 21st century and contribute to filling a void in Minnesota's historical record focused on the accomplishments and contributions of African Americans in Minnesota.
A Q&A period will follow the showing. The event is free to attend. Collaborator: Minnesota's Black Community Project.
Minneapolis Public Schools
"Exhaling" - Art exhibit gallery
When: The exhibit is open thru Saturday, February 28th; 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Where: Davis Center Gallery; 1250 W. Broadway Ave, Minneapolis, MN
All are welcome to attend the opening reception for the exhibit Exhaling, will showcase art by students from Anwatin, Bryn Mawr, FAIR, Las Estrellas and Washburn, plus work from MPS staff including Franklin Middle School teacher Melodee Strong, Nagashia Jackson and Tikonwaun Blackamore, and community artist Sean Garrison.
The exhibit also showcases work from Franklin Middle School teacher Melodee Strong, and community artist Sean Garrison.
"It Took Courage: The Eliza Winston Story"
When: Tuesday, February 10th from 6:30 - 8:00 PM
Where: Justice Page Middle School; 1 West 49th St, Minneapolis, MN
Dr. Christopher Lehman will talk about his 2024 book called “It took Courage”. The book is about a girl named Eliza's escape from enslavement while being kept by her enslavers on the shores of Lake Harriet and the Mississippi River. The event is free and all are welcome! RSVP here.
Unity & Community
When: Friday, February 27th from 9:30 - 10:30 AM
Where: Sullivan STEAM School; 3100 E 28th St, Minneapolis, MN
A special National African American Family/Parent Involvement Day event for caregivers and family at Sullivan STEAM School.
For additional events, please view Celebrate Black History Month with MPS.
Sabathani Community Center
 Documentary Premiere: Spotlight on Minnesota’s Triumphant African American Community
When: Saturday, February 7th from 1:00 - 4:00 PM (Doors open at 12:30 PM)
Where: Sabathani Community Center; 310 E 38th St Minneapolis, MN
In celebration of Black History Month 2026, you are invited to attend the premiere of a powerful new documentary highlighting Minnesota’s triumphant African American community
** Also available at Hosmer Library on the 21st above **
Produced and directed by Craig Rice, this documentary is sponsored by Minnesota’s Black Community Project and features voices, leaders, and cultural contributors whose work has shaped Black life in Minnesota.
Please check out the event page to see individuals featured in this documentary.
Admission & Extras
- Free to attend
- Light refreshments provided
Questions?
Contact Dr. Chaunda L. Scott, Secretary, Minnesota’s Black Community Project
Email: drclscott@gmail.com
Senior Movie Matinee: Sarah's Oil
 When: Thursday, February 19th from 12:30 – 3:00 PM
Where: Sabathani Community Center; 310 E 38th St Minneapolis, MN
Seniors 55+ are invited to enjoy a film on the big screen in the Sabathani Auditorium.
The remarkable true story of eleven year old Sarah Rector, an African American girl born in Oklahoma Indian Territory in the early 1900s, who believes there is oil beneath the barren land she’s allotted and whose faith is proven right.
Featuring Special Guest: Sherese Roble
Sherese Roble, the great granddaughter of Sarah Rector, will introduce the movie and take questions afterwards.
Free Admissions & Snacks. Click here to register now.
If you have questions, please contact Senior Coordinator Joyce Mayes at jmayes@sabathani.org or call 612-821-2313.
2nd Annual Sabathani Wall Street Market
 Come celebrate Black history, support local excellence, and experience the power of community at the Sabathani Wall Street Market.
When: Saturday, February 21st from 11:00 AM–3:00 PM
Where: Sabathani Community Center; 310 E 38th St Minneapolis, MN
Join us for the Sabathani Wall Street Market, a vibrant community gathering celebrating Black History Month and honoring the historic legacy of the 38th Street Corridor—once known as Black Wall Street.
This annual market uplifts local Black-owned businesses, connects community members with valuable resources, and reflects Sabathani Community Center’s ongoing commitment to community wealth-building, connection, and opportunity.
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Support Black-Owned Businesses
Shop local and connect directly with Black entrepreneurs and creatives.
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Celebrate in Community
Gather with neighbors, friends, and families to celebrate Black history, culture, and legacy.
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Explore Community Resources
Learn about organizations and services that support well-being, growth, and opportunity.
 Event Highlights
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Vendor Marketplace
Shop a wide range of local goods including jewelry, accessories, books, art, handcrafted items, gourmet treats, custom creations, and more.
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Community Resource Tables
Connect with nonprofits and organizations offering information, services, and giveaways.
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Entertainment
Enjoy music and lively energy throughout the event.
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Food & Refreshments
Available for purchase on site.
How to Join
Southside Sports Hall of Fame Unveilling
 When: Friday, February 27th from 6:00–8:00 PM
Where: Sabathani Community Center – Gym & Banquet Room
Join us for an evening of celebration, community, and legacy as Sabathani Community Center proudly unveils the Southside Sports Hall of Fame, a new permanent extension of our Living History Museum.
This special event, held during Black History Month, honors the athletes, coaches, teams, and community leaders whose impact on South Minneapolis sports has inspired generations. Together, we’ll celebrate Southside sports heroes and the power of athletics to build connection, opportunity, and pride
Free admission – space is limited! Click here to sign up now.
Rooted in Care: Dementia, Caregiving, & Culture
 When: Saturday, February 21st from 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Where: NorthPoint Health & Wellness Center; 1256 Penn Ave N, Minneapolis MN
Conference Room 5205
The African American Child Wellness Institute is collaborating with the Alzheimer's Association to host a free community conference to address the growing health risk Alzheimer's disease/dementia presents to Minnesota's African and African American communities. View Website.
Natural Hair Care Institute
Are you 18-24 years old?
Do you live in Minneapolis?
Do you love to do hair?
Transform your life with a new career in Natural Hair Care in the new year!
Cohorts are starting in April and October. Full tuition and tool kits paid for by Pillsbury United Communities in partnership with the City of Minneapolis. Must be a resident of Minneapolis, other eligibility factors required.
The NHCI helps train people to care for a career in natural hair care and braiding. They do this by providing up-to-date training with all types of hair textures in their state-of-the-art facilities. Upon completing the 8-week training program, students earn a Minnesota Office of Higher Education-recognized certificate. Techniques taught during the program include extending, locking or braiding of hair by hand and much more.
Applications are being accepted through March 31st.
February is National Heart Health Month!
 National Heart Health Day is TODAY Friday, February 6th (1st Friday in February)
Wear RED in support of women’s cardiovascular health by wearing red, sharing information and resources, and donating to support research and education.
Cardiovascular disease is the No. 1 killer of women.
Wear red to be seen, to be counted, to be heard, and to make an impact. Together, we are stronger than heart disease and stroke.
See what you can do for your heart and wear red tomorrow! hennepinhealthcare.org/hearthealth.
NorthPoint provides an empowering platform designed for African American, Black, and Indigenous women who have experienced heart attacks, strokes, or heart disease.
Join the Healthy Hearts Social Group to:
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Learn about heart health from local experts
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Connect with other women who share similar health journeys
Experienced a cardiac event? Join our monthly support group for African American/Black women
Join the Women’s Heart Health support group online at noon the third Tuesday each month to learn from University of Minnesota M Health Fairview providers and to build community. Register online to join the support group.
Get support for your heart health (PDF, 1MB)
Roosevelt Crafternoon
 When: Saturday, February 7th & 21st from 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Where: Roosevelt Library; 4026 S 28th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Join our crafting community and come to Roosevelt Library every other Saturday from 2:00 - 4:00 PM
We encourage you to bring your current projects. Any and all portable crafts with library-safe materials are welcome. Don’t have a current project or any crafting supplies? Roosevelt Library will have a variety of materials available for you to use.
Club Lectura
 When: Sunday, February 8th from 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Where: East Lake Library; 2727 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Acompáñanos en nuestras discusiones sobre libros nuevos e interesantes publicados en español. Adult Book Club for fluent Spanish speakers. Facilitated by Amigos de España Minnesota. Sponsor: Friends of the Hennepin County Library. Register for more information.
Book: La Isla de la Mujer Dormida by Arturo Pérez Reverte
Registration Required: Register for event
Seed Circles
 When: Tuesday, February 10th from 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Where: Hosmer Library; 347 E 36th St, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Help maintain the Community Seed Library! Share stories, meet neighbors, and sort seed donations together. Collaborator: Plant-Grow-Share (Central Area Neighborhood Development Organization).
Seed Sorting Party
 When: Wednesday, February 11th & 18th from 1:00 - 2:00 PM
Where: Nokomis Library; 5100 S 34th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417
Help sort and label donated seeds for the Nokomis Community Seed Library! A seed library is a collection of community-donated seeds that can be borrowed from the library and planted at home. Volunteer while learning more about seed saving and gardening. Collaborator: Seed Sages.
Learn to Knit
When: Every Thursday in February (5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th) from 3:30 - 5 PM
Where: Arvonne Fraser; 1222 4th St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
Join library staff and learn how to knit! Each session will cover the same basic information (casting on, knit stitch, purl stitch, and casting off), so you can join once or multiple times. Materials provided. Sponsor: Friends of the Hennepin County Library.
Button Making for Families
When: Friday & Saturday, February 13th & 14th from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Wednesday, February 25th from 2:00 – 4:00PM
Where: Nokomis Library; 5100 S 34th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417
For youth and families. Drop in and design your own buttons! We will provide the art supplies, old books and magazines, and the buttons – just bring your own ideas and get creative!
East Lake Vegan Recipe Club
 When: Tuesday, February 17th for 6:30pm–7:30pm
Where: East Lake Library; 2727 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55406
If you are curious about vegan cooking, this virtual club is for you! Each month participants make recipes from popular cookbooks prior to meeting, then share their reflections with the group. Novice to expert cooks are welcome, as are interested non-cooks.
Additional information, including the Zoom meeting link and downloadable recipes, is available on the events page of the Compassionate Action for Animals website.
This program is offered by East Lake Library in partnership with Compassionate Action for Animals.
Go Analog with Zines!
 When: Wednesday, February 18th from 4:30 - 6:30 PM
Where: Franklin Library; 1314 E Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404
Grades 9-12. Unleash your inner activist, fan, or teacher and share your ideas in the quick and informal format zine, popularized by punks, sci-fi fans, and independent publishers. Learn about the history of zines and then make your own using collage, drawing, stamping, and other lo-fi methods. Publish a small edition on the library photocopiers to keep, exchange with classmates, or give away. Collaborator: Minnesota Center for Book Arts. This program is funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
Registration Required: Register for event
Grow Soil 101: Resilient Land and Gardens for the Future
When: Thursday, February 19th from 6:15 - 7:45 PM
Where: Nokomis Library; 5100 S 34th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417
Growing soil can save the world – or the very least your garden season. Come learn how to build life in your soil through diverse planting techniques. This is mostly a lecture-based class. Collaborator: Seed Sages.
Registration Required: Register for event
Vegetable Garden Planning
When: Saturday, February 21st from 9:30 - 11:30 AM
Where: Nokomis Library; 5100 S 34th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55417
Whether you are new to growing food or an experienced gardener, have a yard or need creative approaches for growing space, learn how to plan a vegetable garden with local garden enthusiast Vanessa Van Alstine. Topics include thinking about available space and growing techniques, testing soil, choosing which plants to grow, estimating yields, watering, and timing for planting and harvest.
Registration Required: Register for event
Poetry Reading and Open Mic
 When: Saturday, February 21st from 1:00 - 3:00 PM
Where: Arvonne Fraser; 1222 4th St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414
Join us for an afternoon of poetry! Local poets Carol Rucks and Mary Junge will read from their recent work, followed by an Open Mic opportunity for other poets. Bring your poetry if you'd like to participate in the Open Mic. Time permitting, poets Rucks and Junge will also discuss their writing process, as well as answer craft and publishing questions. Sponsor: Friends of the Hennepin County Library.
Grow in the Snow/ Crecer en la nieve
 When: Saturday, February 21st from 1:30 - 3:30 PM
Where: Hosmer Library; 347 E 36th St, Minneapolis, MN 55408
We can grow in the snow! Winter sowing is a seed-starting technique that uses recycled items to create a habitat for certain seeds to begin outdoors in the winter. Bring clean, empty milk, juice or liter soda bottles if you have any. Soil, seeds and limited containers are available. Spanish interpretation provided.
¡Únase a nosotros para el programa comunitario con Plant-Grow-Share! Los jardines y las granjas urbanas sienten el impacto de nuestro clima cambiante todos los días. Aprenda qué cambios esperar en la temporada de crecimiento durante los próximos años, hable con jardineros experimentados y descubra nuevas formas de estabilizar su temporada de crecimiento. Intérprete está disponible.
Collaborators: Plant-Grow-Share (CANDO), Minnesota Translator and Interpreter Cooperative. Sponsor: Friends of the Hennepin County Library.
Creative Characters
When: Saturday, February 28th from 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Where: Roosevelt Library; 4026 S 28th Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55406
Grades 3-7. Design a personal character and create mini outfits inspired by your own traits, attributes, and interests. Using fabric materials and your imagination, craft a work of art that expresses your unique identity through the art of fashion. Materials provided. Led by COMPAS Teaching Artist Broderick Poole. Collaborator: COMPAS. This program is funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
Take a S.T.A.N.D.
 When: Wednesday, February 11th from 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Where: Matthew Recreation Center; 2318 29th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55406
We’re bringing back another night of Solidarity, Truth, Action, and Neighborhood Defense. Come learn from elected officials at the city, county, and state levels about local updates, and actions you can take to protect our Minnesota neighbors.
Use this link to submit questions to our panel of elected officials →
Frost Fest
 When: Friday, February 6th from 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Where: Pearl Park; 414 E Diamond Lake Rd, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Pearl Park along with Hale Page Diamond Lake Neighborhood Association invite you to join us for the annual celebration of winter. Activities include sledding on a colorfully lit hill, ice skating, a fat tire snow biking course, snow art and more. Food trucks will offer a variety of menu options. This year's event will take place entirely outdoors.
Midtown Phillips Annual Meeting
 When: Saturday, February 7th from 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Where: Zoom
Join us virtually to reflect on the previous year of the Midtown Phillips Neighborhood Organization, vote for new board members, discuss ways to support Midtown residents, and more! There will be Somali and Spanish translations available. To attend, please register here.
Wokiksuye: In Remembrance & Witness
When: Saturday, February 7th from 12:00 - 3:00 PM
Where: Powderhorn Park; 3400 15th Ave S, Minneapolis, MN
Please join the First Peoples of Mni Sóta Makoce and the Good Family for a public memorial ceremony on Saturday, February 7, at Powderhorn Park, where we will mourn Renée, Alex, and all those we've lost in this occupation.
Memorial ceremony led by Chief Arvol Looking Horse begins at 1 pm, followed by community singing, poetry, and more.
Special invitation and care for those who have witnessed violence, loss, or ICE abductions.
In collaboration with: Brave Heart Society, Indigenous Protector Movement, American Indian Movement, Freedom Trainers, Sunrise Movement, Project South, AND MORE.
Lake Hiawatha Winter Warmer
 When: Saturday, February 7th from 12:00 - 3:00 PM
Where: Lake Hiawatha Recreation Center; 2701 E 44th St, Minneapolis, MN
Join Minneapolis Parks for the annual Winter Warmer! Enjoy an afternoon of community and winter activities at Lake Hiawatha Rec Center.
Every donation makes a difference in the lives of these furry friends and their owners. See you there!
SENA will be on site collecting donations for @thebond_between. Donate pet supplies, especially:
- Litter boxes
- Wet Cat food
- Wet Dog Food
- Grooming supplies including pet shampoo
- Cash donations welcome too!
Fire and Frost Festival at Luxton Park
 When: Saturday, February 7th from 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Where: Luxton Park Recreation Center; 112 Williams Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN
This event brings together residents young and old to enjoy a family-friendly evening of fun! The event's signature draw is a huge bonfire made up of dried-up holiday trees and wreaths, but the food, live music and horse-drawn hayrides are certainly of interest as well! In 2025, indoor activities will be modified because of construction inside the park building.
Customary Fire & Ice activities
- Bonfire
- Horse-drawn Hayrides!
- Music
- Book exchange / sale
- Food
- Hot Drinks
- Good Cheer
MMIR March (Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives March)
The 2026 MMIR March Honors Our Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Men, Boys, Two Spirit, and LQBTQI+ relatives.
Learn more: https://www.miwsac.org/miwsac-announces-2025-missing-murdered-indigenous-relatives-mmir-march/
MONARCA Rapid Response Line: Monarca MN hosts a hotline to report ICE activity, trains legal observers, provides support for families who are targeted, and offers web resources for individuals and workplaces. (612) 441-2881
Unidos MN: Know Your Rights Information, Advocacy for the revised and strengthened Minneapolis Separation Ordinance presented to the Minneapolis City Council on December 9th.
Immigrant Legal Resource Center: Advocates through its Red Card campaign, which provides information on the rights and protections available to all people in the U.S., regardless of immigration status.
Immigrant Defense Project: Know Your Rights Infographics and resources for individuals wanting to know what to do when at home or on the street, in your car, when interacting with ICE, or if you are detained.
STOP ICE Network Nationwide Alert System: Send & Receive alerts about ICE raids and activity in your area. Stop ICE Alerts Network works with technology already built into your phone, without the need to download an app.
Midtown Global Market
Friends of Global Market has launched a Small Business Stability Fund to support locally owned, family-run businesses at Midtown Global Market experiencing reduced foot traffic during a challenging time.
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Friends of Global Market is providing short-term financial assistance to help vendors cover essential operating costs and stay open.
You can help by making a tax-deductible donation, sharing this fundraiser, or supporting Market businesses through in-person visits, online ordering, or delivery when available. Every contribution helps keep our small businesses strong and our community thriving.
Hennepin Healthcare/HCMC
 Your health and safety are very important to us.
Hennepin Healthcare is committed to providing safe, high-quality care to everyone—regardless of immigration status. Your privacy is protected, and we want you to feel safe seeking the care you need.
If you are feeling sick, experiencing symptoms, or have a scheduled appointment, please come to the hospital for care—even if you are feeling afraid or uncertain. Our priority is your health and well-being.
Hospitals exist to provide medical care to everyone who needs it. Our staff are focused on treating patients with dignity, respect, and compassion, regardless of background or personal circumstances. Seeking medical care when you need it can prevent serious illness and help keep you and your loved ones safe.
“We’re seeing residents not wanting to leave their homes, not go to work, not go to their doctor appointments, not going to their regularly scheduled checkups, postponing surgeries, postponing care,” said Angela Conley, Hennepin county commissioner for district 4, where Renee Good was killed.
The Guardian article: Public health crisis unfolding in Minneapolis as residents avoid healthcare
Hennepin Healthcare commitment to patients: https://hennepinhealthcare.org/about-hennepin-healthcare/commitment-patients/frequently-asked-questions
UMN Rapid Response
Need to know information and resources for University and community members if you see or are impacted by ICE activity:
City of Minneapolis
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The City of Minneapolis has put together the following resources for people:
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Virtual Resource Center with info on food assistance, housing resources, links to mental health support, and links to legal aid providers.
Call 311 for sidewalk issues, boulevard tree issue, street sweeping, graffiti, parking violations, animals issues, construction noise issue, unpicked up solid waste or yard waste, snow removal, storm water or sewage issue, potholes, and others
For the safety of you and your community please turn your outdoor lights on at dusk.
Are any of your street lights out? If wooden call or visit Xcel Energy at 1-800-960-6235 or report online. If metal call 311.
 Now more than ever is a great time to get connect to your neighborhood organizations/association!
Contact us
Angela Conley
Commissioner, 4th District
Binta Kanteh
Policy Director
612-348-5204
Natasha Rice
District Director
612-348-3204
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