URGENT UPDATE: St. Paul City Council Member Nelsie Yang is rallying community members to take a stand against ICE operations in a powerful event at Lake Phalen this Saturday. Residents will illuminate the lake with the message “MN > ICE,” forming a symbolic heart at sunset, in direct response to the controversial Operation Metro Surge initiative.
The gathering is set to kick off at 5 p.m. at 1400 Phalen Boulevard, where residents from the culturally rich Payne-Phalen neighborhood—home to a demographic of 45% Asian, 14% Black, and 9% Latino—will come together to shine their lights against the backdrop of an escalating crisis in immigration enforcement.
This event comes in the wake of tragic incidents involving federal immigration agents, including the recent fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. Since January, thousands of individuals have been detained, raising alarm over the tactics used by federal authorities and igniting a wave of community outrage.
Yang emphasized the importance of unity in her written statement, highlighting the need for the community to voice their concerns and support their fellow residents. “We must stand together to protect our neighbors and affirm our values,” she stated.
As the sun sets, attendees will gather at the beach to create a visually striking display, sending a clear message against the ongoing immigration crackdown. The event not only symbolizes resistance but also aims to foster solidarity among diverse cultural groups in the area.
This gathering is expected to draw significant local attention, with organizers urging participants to bring their own lights to contribute to the collective effort. With the eyes of the community focused on Lake Phalen, the event represents a critical moment for residents to express their values and challenge current immigration policies.
What’s Next: Community leaders and participants are preparing for a significant turnout, and the event is designed to spark conversations about the future of immigration enforcement in Minnesota. The urgency of this situation makes it imperative for residents to engage now, as further actions against ICE are being planned in response to this weekend’s gathering.
Residents are encouraged to share this event widely, as the implications of ICE operations continue to affect countless families in the area. The time for community action is now—join the movement at Lake Phalen this Saturday.
