Minneapolis Reels from 'Unnatural' ICE Disaster, Says Local Pastor

Community experiencing widespread grief and trauma, according to Lutheran church leader

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Minneapolis community is facing widespread grief and trauma in the aftermath of a recent ICE operation in the city, according to Rev. Ingrid Rasmussen, the lead pastor at a local Lutheran church. Rasmussen tells CNN's Fredricka Whitfield that the effects are "like the aftermath of a tornado" and that the situation is "unnatural" for the community.

Why it matters

The presence of ICE in Minneapolis has had a profound impact on the local community, causing significant distress and disruption. As a prominent religious leader, Rev. Rasmussen's perspective sheds light on the human toll of these enforcement actions and the need for compassionate responses.

The details

Rev. Rasmussen describes the community as experiencing widespread grief and trauma following the recent ICE operation in Minneapolis. She likens the effects to the aftermath of a tornado, suggesting the situation is "unnatural" for the city.

  • The ICE operation took place recently in Minneapolis.

The players

Rev. Ingrid Rasmussen

The lead pastor at a local Lutheran church in Minneapolis.

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What they’re saying

“The effects of ICE's presence in the city are "like the aftermath of a tornado.”

— Rev. Ingrid Rasmussen, Lead Pastor, Local Lutheran Church (CNN)

The takeaway

This situation highlights the profound human impact of ICE enforcement actions on local communities and the need for a more compassionate, trauma-informed approach to immigration policy and implementation.