Immigrant Defense Network launches amid rising enforcement actions

On Feb. 14, 2025, a historic partnership of immigrant, labor, legal, faith, and community organizations launched the Immigrant Defense Network (IDN), a coordinated effort in Minnesota dedicated to protecting and empowering immigrant families.
The launch of IDN comes at a critical time when immigrant communities in Minnesota are facing heightened enforcement actions. This week, Rochester, Minn., was the site of the "Valentine's Raids" which are part of a broader pattern of aggressive immigration enforcement under the current administration. In response, COPAL (3702 E Lake St.), a member of the IDN, organized an emergency protest, demonstrating the urgent need for coordinated community defense networks.
“Today, we made it clear: Minnesota stands strong in solidarity, committed to protecting and supporting its immigrant communities,” said COPAL Organizing Director Ryan Perez. “We will not let fear divide us, instead, we are strengthening our network to safeguard, inform, and uplift one another and the communities we serve and represent."
The press conference was followed by IDN’s “Love Your Immigrant Neighbor” Day of Action, a statewide mobilization where IDN members and allies delivered 14,000 Valentine’s Day cards providing words of encouragement and crucial Know-Your-Rights information. Supporters also took to bridges in Minneapolis, St. Paul, Mankato, Austin, Monticello, and Rochester, standing together for justice and in solidarity to display Minnesota’s unwavering support for its immigrant neighbors.
As immigrant communities face an increasingly hostile political climate and intensified enforcement actions, IDN is taking decisive action so 20,000 Minnesotans can learn about their rights, will train 2,000 Community Rights Ambassadors, and advocate for legislative measures that safeguard the safety, dignity, and future of all.
Minnesota is home to over 500,000 immigrants who contribute to the state’s economy, paying $3.5 billion in federal taxes and $1.7 billion in state and local taxes annually.