In light of the enforcement operations involving ICE in our community in recent months, our North Minneapolis Rotary club felt compelled to draft and share our club's humanitarian values. We share this with you today (attached) and will be publicly sharing it on our website, our facebook page and with local media sources. Feel free to share this as you see fit.
Statement on Humanitarian Values and Community Safety
Rotary Club of North Minneapolis
Since our founding in 2012, the Rotary Club of North Minneapolis has been deeply committed to service above self and to strengthening the well-being of every member of our community. We are intentionally rooted in North Minneapolis because we know the powerful potential of grassroots service in places where needs are greatest.
Rotary International is a non-political service organization guided by humanitarian principles, fostering peace, equity, and justice worldwide. We honor that tradition and affirm that our work must protect human dignity and safety, and ensure that all people can thrive through education, community support, and equitable access to resources.
Enforcement operations involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal agents in Minneapolis have shaken our community to the core and raised serious concerns about the treatment of immigrants, long-time residents, and families across Minnesota. These actions have not only resulted in the tragic loss of life, including the deaths of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Jeffrey Pretti, but have also generated widespread fear, uncertainty, and trauma among neighbors, business owners, faith communities, and service providers who serve immigrant and mixed-status households. Reports of aggressive enforcement tactics and heightened federal presence have disrupted daily life, eroded trust in public institutions and left many residents (regardless of immigrant status) feeling vulnerable and unsettled in their own communities. This situation has intensified calls for accountability and a review of enforcement practices.
While Rotary does not take positions on public policy or law enforcement strategy, we do take a stand for humanitarian compassion, the protection of human life, and the fair treatment of all people regardless of status.
We believe:
• no community should be subjected to actions that undermine trust, safety, or the rule of law.
• humanitarian support, such as education, legal guidance, and community services, is critical to help individuals and families navigate complex systems with dignity.
• peaceful and constructive engagement can foster healing and understanding across communities.
Therefore, the Rotary Club of North Minneapolis stands with those who seek safety, justice, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to our shared community. We will continue to work in partnership with service organizations, civil rights advocates, and local leaders to support nonviolent solutions that protect human dignity and uphold the humanitarian values at the heart of Rotary.
February 2026