Community Resilience: The Rise of Stand With Minnesota Amid ICE Actions

In response to increasing federal immigration enforcement in Minneapolis, Ashley Fairbanks, a writer and digital strategist, founded Stand With Minnesota. From her home in San Antonio, Fairbanks initiated a Google Doc that evolved into a comprehensive online platform aimed at supporting local residents affected by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions. Since its inception, the site has garnered over 2.4 million visits and raised nearly $20 million to assist families facing financial hardships due to the ICE presence in the area.

The Guardian

Stand With Minnesota has become a vital resource for residents, particularly in addressing urgent needs such as rent assistance. Fairbanks noted that the site has facilitated connections between donors and individuals in need, including coordinating flights for those released from detention. The platform has also expanded to include a "giving directory," which offers various forms of mutual aid, such as grocery deliveries and laundry services. Fairbanks emphasized the importance of community-driven support, stating, “People are eager to give, especially with the mutual aid efforts.”

The Guardian

Minneapolis has a rich history of community organizing, dating back to significant events like the truck strikes of 1934 and various co-op movements. Fairbanks highlighted that the city’s unique culture of collectivism and mutual support has been instrumental in the success of initiatives like Stand With Minnesota. The recent surge in community activism can also be traced back to the protests following the police killings of George Floyd, Jamar Clark, and Philando Castile, which have fostered a reflexive approach to organizing in the city.

The Guardian

Despite the success of Stand With Minnesota, Fairbanks pointed out that the need for support remains critical. With zero shelter beds available for families at risk of homelessness and many mixed-status families ineligible for assistance programs, the estimated need for rent support exceeds $20 million. Fairbanks expressed concern about the potential consequences for families who are unable to meet their rent obligations, stating, “It’s really terrifying to think about what will happen when a lot of families who are still sheltering in place are forced to pay their rent next month.”

The Guardian

Fairbanks advocates for the replication of mutual aid efforts in other communities, emphasizing that proactive organization is essential. She encourages individuals to connect with their neighbors and establish local support networks before crises arise. “Inter-connected, inter-dependent communities are resilient communities,” she stated, underscoring the importance of community preparedness in the face of potential challenges, whether from immigration enforcement or other crises.

The Guardian

• “People were really eager to help.” — Ashley Fairbanks, Founder of Stand With Minnesota

The Guardian

• “I can’t think of a more rewarding thing you could do.” — Ashley Fairbanks

The Guardian

• “It might be ICE; it might be some other form of fascism.” — Ashley Fairbanks

The Guardian

Through the establishment of Stand With Minnesota, Fairbanks exemplifies how grassroots initiatives can mobilize community support and resilience in the face of federal actions, highlighting the importance of mutual aid in times of need.

The Guardian