Today, Mayor Jacob Frey signed an Executive Order prohibiting federal, state, and local agencies from using any City-owned parking lots, ramps, garages, or vacant lots to stage civil immigration enforcement operations. The order also directs City staff to design a signage template for local businesses and property owners who want to show their support for immigrants and mark their property as off-limits for these activities.

Federal immigration authorities previously used municipal lots to stage operations in Chicago before the city issued a similar executive order, and community members in Minneapolis have recommended that Mayor Frey ensure the same does not happen here.

The mayor’s order comes after recent credible media reports outlining the Trump administration’s plans to target Somali immigrants in the Twin Cities. The mayor has been clear: Minneapolis will not waver in its commitment to protect the rights and safety of all people, regardless of immigration status.

“Minneapolis is — and will remain — a city that stands up for our residents,” said Mayor Jacob Frey. “City parking lots need to be used for City purposes, which do not include civil immigration enforcement. There’s no place in our Minneapolis for fear-based tactics or operations that undermine community trust. This Executive Order makes it clear: City parking lots, ramps, garages, and vacant lots cannot and will not be used to stage civil immigration enforcement operations.”