Full Breakdown
Minneapolis Hospitality Workers Face Ongoing Fear Amid ICE Operations
2/4/2026, 12:18:01 AM
Current Situation of Hospitality Workers
In Minneapolis, hundreds of unionized hospitality workers, including those employed at hotels, restaurants, and the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, are experiencing heightened anxiety due to ongoing operations by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Despite federal assurances of a less confrontational approach focusing on immigrants with criminal records, many workers remain fearful of potential encounters with ICE agents. According to Christa Sarrack, president of Unite Here Local 17, which represents approximately 7,000 members in the region, the pervasive fear has led some workers to avoid leaving their homes entirely.
ICE's Enforcement Strategy
Tom Homan, the newly appointed U.S. border czar, stated that ICE would primarily target individuals with prior arrests or convictions. However, he acknowledged that agents could still detain individuals without convictions if they come into contact with them. This policy has not alleviated fears among workers, many of whom are foreign-born and constitute about one-third of the U.S. hospitality workforce. The union reported that around 200 members are currently avoiding public spaces, necessitating direct support from Unite Here, including assistance with food and rent.
Impact on Local Economy
The presence of ICE has significantly impacted economic activity in Minneapolis, with estimates indicating that businesses are losing between $10 million to $20 million weekly. Some establishments have reported revenue declines of nearly 80% year-over-year over the past two months. Erik Hansen, director of the Minneapolis Community Planning and Economic Development department, described the situation as "catastrophic" for many local businesses, workers, and families. A survey conducted by Meet Minneapolis revealed that about 90 businesses reported operational stress due to fear, with 72 noting staff absences.
Incident of Arrest
A notable incident that has heightened concerns occurred on January 19, when ICE agents arrested Darvin M., a Nicaraguan refugee working at the Hilton Homewood Suites. Despite assurances from his employer that he would not be detained, Darvin was taken into custody and sent to a detention center in El Paso, Texas, despite holding a valid work permit and having a pending application for permanent residency. This incident underscores the ongoing tension and uncertainty faced by hospitality workers in the region.
Criticism of ICE Operations
The aggressive tactics employed by ICE have drawn widespread criticism, particularly following incidents in which ICE agents killed two U.S. citizens in January. Sarrack emphasized that until there is accountability and a reduction of ICE's presence in the community, workers will continue to feel unsafe. The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees ICE, has not provided comments regarding these concerns.
Conclusion
The situation for hospitality workers in Minneapolis remains precarious as they navigate the dual challenges of economic strain and fear of immigration enforcement. The ongoing operations by ICE continue to affect not only the workers' sense of safety but also the broader economic landscape of the city.
