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This is a special edition of the City of Minneapolis News Update. Find updates at minneapolismn.gov/news.
 The City of Minneapolis updated its separation ordinance, which prohibits us from participating in federal immigration enforcement activities.
Here’s what you need to know:
What’s new:
- An executive order by Mayor Frey – now codified in the ordinance – prevents Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from staging on City-owned lots and ramps
- New reports to Mayor and City Council
- Updated training for employees on the separation ordinance
What doesn’t change:
- The City does not participate in immigration enforcement and will not self-deploy to an ICE-related event
- MPD protects the safety of everyone, regardless of immigration status
As we witness increased federal immigration enforcement throughout the Twin Cities, we are committed to doing everything in our power to keep our community safe and support everyone living in fear of being targeted.
MPD is dedicated to community policing as a means of reducing crime while building community trust. Therefore, MPD will investigate criminal activity without regard to a person’s actual or perceived immigration status. Doing otherwise would have a chilling effect on our ability to provide public safety to our community. Read more on the City's website.
With increased federal immigration activities, residents and community members are asking what to do if they see ICE in their neighborhood. Due to our City’s separation ordinance, MPD does not work with ICE on immigration enforcement operations and cannot interfere with those operations.
If there are threats of violence, actual violence, or destruction of property, MPD officers may respond to assess the situation, de-escalate when possible, and ensure public safety for everyone.
Call 911 right away if:
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You see someone with a gun and they are not wearing anything that identifies them as law enforcement.
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You hear gunshots or see someone firing a gun.
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Someone is being assaulted.
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A person is being taken by force into an unmarked vehicle and you don’t know if law enforcement is involved.
When you call 911, describe what you see. Officers may come to assess the situation.
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Contact 311 to get more information
For non-emergency questions, call 311. Operators can explain what MPD does and does not do. Using 311 helps keep 911 available for life-threatening emergencies.
Important safety reminders
Do not interfere in any way with federal agents. Physically impeding or obstructing any ICE operation can lead to arrest or being charged with obstructing federal law enforcement.
- Do not engage or throw objects.
- You may record video, as long as you do not interfere.
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Small business impacts from increased federal activity
Optional signs to notify ICE you do not authorize using your private property for their operations
On Dec. 3, Mayor Frey signed an executive order prohibiting staging for civil immigration enforcement activities on any City-owned parking lots, ramps, garages or vacant lots. Private property owners and leaseholders can also post a notice stating they do not authorize their property to be used for certain immigration enforcement activities, such as staging for an operation.
The City created designs for signs, posters, stickers and window decals you can download and print. While the City is providing the designs, printing is your responsibility.
Note: If you use these signs, you’re doing so at your own discretion and assume any associated legal risks. The City cannot guarantee that these signs are legally enforceable in every situation. Do not physically fight with ICE agents regarding access to your property. Document their actions and follow up with a legal services provider.
Helpful links:
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Other small business tips
Small businesses and other places of employment may encounter specific enforcement actions to be aware of and prepared for.
I-9 inspections
An I-9 inspection, also called an I-9 audit, is an administrative inspection process conducted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). During this process, a DHS agent will request specific business records to confirm that the business's employees have appropriate work authorization. Read more on I-9 Inspections.
ICE or federal action at the workplace
Immigration officials may come to a business with a warrant to locate or detain specific individuals or search a location. The National Immigration Law Center (NILC) offers a helpful guide for steps that employers can take if immigration officials come to your workplace. Find the NILC Guide for Employers.
How to access legal advice
The City of Minneapolis Business Technical Assistance Program (BTAP) refers eligible businesses to free legal advice from attorneys.
Contact the Small Business Team for a referral at smallbusiness@minneapolismn.gov or call 612-673-2499
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Additional resources
If you or someone you know is affected, there are resources available, including free legal clinics staffed by immigration attorneys.
 Being Minnesotan means standing together with one another — especially in moments of fear. As we continue through the winter with increased federal immigration enforcement activity, we want to be clear: Minneapolis stands with our immigrant and refugee communities.
Our city is built by people of many backgrounds, cultures, and faiths. Different stories, one shared home. All are welcome here.
We are Minnesotan — and we stand together.
Find more information and updates at minneapolismn.gov/federal
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