Protest at St. Paul Church: Key Details and Arrests in Minneapolis

On a recent Sunday, a protest at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota, led to the arrest of three individuals who demonstrated against federal immigration policies. The arrests were made by federal agents as the protesters accused Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) of overstepping its authority. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that the arrested individuals conspired to deprive others of their rights.

Details of the Protest

The protest occurred during a regular church service. Activist Nekima Levy Armstrong, one of those arrested, expressed concern over the pastor’s alleged ties to ICE. Following the pastor’s sermon, she invoked his words, stating, “You just prayed that God would chasten you and help you get your house in order.” This sparked chants of “Justice for Renee Good” and “ICE out” from the congregation.

Security was called as the number of protesters inside the church reached approximately 40. According to St. Paul police, the demonstration escalated outside after initial disruptions inside the church.

Responses and Reactions

The incident has drawn varied reactions. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey criticized the arrests, labeling them a “gross abuse of power.” In contrast, the White House endorsed the actions taken against protesters.

• Nekima Levy Armstrong
• Chauntyll Louisa Allen
• William Kelly

These three individuals now face serious charges, including conspiracy to deprive rights. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that more arrests might follow.

Context and Impact

This demonstration is tied to ongoing tensions regarding immigration enforcement in the Twin Cities, particularly following the death of community member Renee Good. Critics, like Levy Armstrong, highlighted the brutality associated with ICE operations in Minnesota.

Before the protest, Levy Armstrong had gained recognition as a civil rights attorney and former president of the Minneapolis NAACP. Allen serves on the St. Paul School Board and previously campaigned for city council. Kelly, a combat veteran, has framed the protest as a stand against injustices faced by communities impacted by ICE.

Legal Implications

The federal FACE Act, aimed at protecting worshippers from violence and intimidation during religious services, may also play a role in this case. It prohibits interference with individuals exercising their rights to religious freedom.

In recent attention on this incident, former CNN host Don Lemon was involved in the protests. However, he claimed that he was present solely as a journalist and is not facing any charges at this time.

The legal considerations surrounding these events remain fluid, and it appears that more developments could unfold as both federal and state officials respond to the ongoing unrest.