Minneapolis Immigration Crackdown Sparks Fear Among Catholic Communities

A sweeping immigration crackdown in Minneapolis has left the local Catholic community in distress. Known as Operation Metro Surge, the initiative has led to at least 3,000 arrests since December—with 80% of those targeted being Christian, predominantly Catholic. The deaths of two U.S. citizens during protests have intensified fears, prompting calls for reform from church leaders.

The operation began in December under Border Patrol commander Greg Bovino. But after federal agents fatally shot Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti during protests in January 2026, President Donald Trump replaced Bovino with Tom Homan, his 'border protection czar'. Homan now oversees the Minneapolis enforcement effort.

Local priests have described a climate of deep unease. Father Jim Cassidy of St. Joan of Arc Parish spoke of the community's struggle with sadness and fear. Father Daniel Griffith, pastor of the Basilica of St. Mary, called the situation one of 'indescribable grief and trauma'. Even those with legal status now hesitate to leave home, according to Father Paul Haverstock of St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish in Hopkins.

Suspicion has also fallen on ICE for monitoring Catholic churches, including St. Gabriel's. Zuly Duarte-Jaimes, a naturalised U.S. citizen and Catholic volunteer, voiced her alarm for immigrant families. Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda of St. Paul and Minneapolis responded by holding a Mass for Pretti and others affected, while urging lawmakers to pursue comprehensive immigration reform.

The crackdown continues under Homan's leadership, with arrests predominantly affecting Christian immigrants. Church leaders and residents alike are demanding change, as the deaths of Good and Pretti cast a long shadow over the city. For now, fear remains widespread, even among those with legal protections.