In recent months, the presence of federal immigration agents in Minneapolis has prompted community action. Residents have started forming legal observer groups, neighborhood defense teams, and volunteer networks to support individuals fearful of leaving their homes due to ICE activity. Among these groups is the “Mamas of Cedar,” a cohesive network of mothers from Cedar Riverside devoted to assisting their community amid these concerns.
Mamas of Cedar Vigilantly Monitor ICE Activity
The “Mamas of Cedar” are a group of six mothers, ranging in age from 36 to 60, who patrol neighborhoods wearing bright neon-green vests. They work to ensure that residents are informed about their rights and have access to essential resources. Nasteho Abdi, a long-time resident, stated that this initiative is a natural extension of her community involvement, highlighting the group’s spontaneous emergence in response to heightened ICE activity since December.
Community Support and Training
As part of their preparation, the mothers participated in a “Know Your Rights Training” organized by Ayada Leads. This training equips them with essential knowledge to protect their neighbors during potential ICE encounters. Each mother commits around five hours a week to being present in their residential lobby and actively patrols the area, especially when reports of ICE presence arise.
Addressing Community Needs
- Legal Representation: Many community members require legal support due to fears of harassment.
- Food Security: Volunteers are helping to provide meals for those in need.
- Emotional Support: The mothers are creating a sense of community and security in the face of adversity.
Idil Ahmed is another active member in Cedar Riverside. Though not one of the six patrollers, she assists by providing meals and transportation for those attending medical appointments. Through her communal outreach, she has noticed a rising number of calls for help, indicating widespread stress and financial difficulty among residents who have been largely confined to their homes.
Mobilizing the Community
Halimo Elmi, Fadumo Abdi, and Nasro Hassen, among others, contribute by preparing food and drinks for residents gathering at the site of a tragic shooting involving an ICE agent. Each morning, the mothers coordinate via a WhatsApp group to ensure that community members, especially those patrolling, have access to refreshments like Somali tea and sambusas. This collaborative effort not only fosters unity but mobilizes resources efficiently.
Halimo, who has faced scrutiny from ICE agents herself, emphasized the importance of community resilience. She stated that they are determined to protect their rights and monitor any actions taken by immigration authorities. Such communication tools and community cohesion have provided reassurance to many who had previously felt isolated and anxious.
A Call for Support and Unity
Fadumo expressed the heartbreak felt after the community violence, emphasizing the need for accountability and justice. The collective spirit of the “Mamas of Cedar” underscores their commitment to their neighbors. As they continue to support one another, they wish to convey a powerful message: “We are American. We love our neighbors.”
This movement reflects the ongoing efforts to foster safety, solidarity, and resilience within the Cedar Riverside community amid challenging circumstances.
