ICE Targeted Worshipers Well Before Don Lemon Visited Church

Recent actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have raised serious concerns among faith communities. Reports indicate that the agency has targeted churchgoers, impacting their ability to worship freely.

ICE Targeting Worshipers: A New Reality

In January 2026, a significant incident took place in St. Paul, Minnesota. Journalist Don Lemon was arrested while reporting on protests against a church whose pastor allegedly collaborates with ICE. This incident highlights an alarming trend surrounding immigration enforcement near places of worship.

Changed Policies under the Trump Administration

After Donald Trump’s second inauguration, the administration rescinded a crucial 2021 guideline. This guideline had aimed to protect sensitive areas, including churches, hospitals, and schools, from immigration operations. As a result, ICE agents began conducting operations near these locations, sparking fear among congregants and immigrants alike.

Effects on Worshippers

As immigration enforcement intensified, fears about attending church services grew. Many individuals, regardless of documentation status, felt unsafe in their spiritual communities. The rescinded guidance intended to prevent such anxiety, but reports indicate that ICE has arrested individuals on or near church properties multiple times since the policy shift.

Statements from ICE Leadership

• ICE’s acting director, Todd Lyons, stated the agency respects places of worship.
• He clarified that while pursuing criminals, agents would continue operations near churches if necessary.

However, public statements seem disconnected from the practical implications of their actions, as noted by faith leaders and community organizers. Reports from cities including Chicago and Minneapolis illustrate that ICE has actively engaged in operations targeting congregants in these sensitive locations.

Numerous Incidents Reported Nationwide

Last summer in Los Angeles, ICE agents began detaining workers, creating public protests. Events escalated when agents enforced arrests near churches. On multiple occasions, operations led to distress among churchgoers, including harrowing scenes at Catholic parishes in San Bernardino County.

Personal Accounts of Impact

Pastors have shared heart-wrenching stories of families torn apart by ICE actions. For instance, a pastor described a husband and wife, both asylum seekers from Iran, who faced separation during an ICE raid. The situation caused severe emotional distress for their community.

Rev. Dr. Gabriel Salguero emphasized the emotional toll on families devoted to their faith. Many congregants express fear about attending services, leaving their spiritual lives drastically altered.

Emotional and Community Strain

Communities across the nation are feeling the strain of these targeted operations. Places like Charlotte have seen armed agents approach churches during vulnerable moments, such as school pickup times. In Minneapolis, pastors are reporting dwindling attendance as community members remain apprehensive about attending church.

Conclusion

The targeting of worshipers by ICE has created a tense environment for faith communities across the U.S. As these actions continue, the impact on the right to worship freely remains a significant concern. Congregants and leaders alike are calling for a return to policies that protect these sacred spaces.