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Ward 4 neighbors,
In light of the recent federal shooting in Minneapolis and the demonstrations that have followed, I want to share clear information about how the City is working to keep our communities, especially our children, safe, informed, and supported.
City & Minneapolis Public Schools Coordination
The City of Minneapolis maintains regular, ongoing communication with Minneapolis Public Schools through multiple channels, including direct coordination with the Superintendent’s office.
Currently, the City’s Emergency Management Director and the MPS Director of Emergency Management, Safety & Security are in daily contact. This ensures concerns are quickly shared and addressed, and that support is provided as needed. MPS communicates any issues or needs to the City’s Emergency Operations Center, and the City responds with appropriate resources.
In addition, City staff working in school-based clinics interact daily with MPS staff and have been trained on the City’s separation ordinance. We remain fully committed to working alongside MPS to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our students, educators, and families during this challenging time.
Peaceful Protest & Downtown Activity Update
City leaders, public safety officials, and emergency responders are urging residents to continue demonstrating peacefully and lawfully following the federal shooting earlier this week.
On Friday night into Saturday morning, several hundred people gathered downtown to protest. During the overnight hours, 30 individuals were detained, cited, and released after incidents involving blocked roadways and property damage.
Mayor Jacob Frey shared appreciation for the many residents who demonstrated peacefully, provided food, supported one another, and worked to keep the peace, while also being clear that actions that endanger people or damage property will result in arrest.
Reports from the evening included:
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Approximately $6,000 in window damage and graffiti at the Depot Renaissance Hotel
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Multiple instances of people blocking roadways downtown
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Objects thrown at officers, police vehicles, and passing vehicles
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A brief forced entry into the Canopy Hotel that was resolved by hotel security
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One officer sustained minor injuries that did not require medical attention
Around 200 officers from the Minneapolis Police Department, Minnesota State Patrol, and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources assisted overnight. An unlawful assembly was declared after repeated dispersal orders, and the declaration ended around 1 a.m.
Know Your Rights
Everyone has the constitutional right to peacefully protest:
However:
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Freeways and roadways may not be blocked
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Throwing objects, starting fires, damaging property, or using fireworks or weapons is not permitted
Unlawful activity will not be tolerated.
Public Safety Reminder
MPD does not participate in the enforcement of federal civil immigration laws. Officers may respond to situations where there are public safety concerns, with the goal of de-escalation and protecting everyone involved.
Ward 4 is strong, compassionate, and resilient. We will continue to stand with our immigrant and refugee neighbors, protect our children, and uphold both safety and constitutional rights. My office will remain engaged and responsive as events continue to unfold.
As always, if you need support or have concerns, my team is here for you.
With care,
Council Member LaTrisha Vetaw
Ward 4, Minneapolis |
