In response to the Chamber’s call for deescalation, MUID calls for an immediate end to ICE’s Operation Metro Surge and urges public accountability and solidarity with affected communities.
On January 26, 2026, the Metropolitan Urban Indian Directors Group (MUID) a coalition of more than thirty-five American Indian organizations serving the Twin Cities—issued a formal letter to the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce in response to the Chamber’s January 25 call for “deescalation of tensions.”
MUID asserts that true deescalation is impossible while Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) continues “Operation Metro Surge” in Minnesota. The letter outlines serious concerns over violent and traumatic ICE actions impacting U.S. citizens, with disproportionate harm to communities of color and Urban American Indian communities. MUID calls for the immediate end of ICE operations in Minnesota as a necessary first step toward any meaningful dialogue or collaboration.
The letter also calls on the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce and its members to clearly state where they stand by publicly condemning ICE’s actions and standing with impacted communities. Continued silence, MUID warns, risks irreparable harm to trust and partnership.
We strongly encourage all readers to take the time to read the full letter below. It speaks directly to this moment, raises critical questions about values and accountability, and calls on all of us to consider where we stand and how we move forward together.
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Dr. Lee Antell, former President and CEO of the American Indian OIC. A devoted leader, educator, and member of the White Earth Nation, Dr. Antell dedicated his life to advancing opportunities for Native American students and serving his community with unwavering kindness and commitment. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched, both through his professional work and his love for his family.
Every journey toward success looks different, but one thing remains true: with the right support, it’s never too late to start again. Joseph’s story is a powerful example of how determination, guidance, and opportunity can come together to open new doors. Through American Indian OIC’s CDL training program, Joseph found the tools and encouragement he needed to build a more stable and hopeful future.
As ongoing crises impact immigrant communities and families facing detention, housing, and food insecurity, our team is providing increased support and sharing a community resource guide for legal, housing, and basic needs assistance.
