Compiled and written by David R. Schleper, 2026.
According to The Minnesota Star Tribune, Feb. 6, 2026, “It doesn’t ever really leave my mind; Minnesotans talk about winter weeks spent in the shadows of a juggernaut ICE operation” by Laura Yeun, on page A4, Maricruz, a mother, made tortillas while keeping one eye on her phone, which streamed video footage from the front door. She was always watching for ICE.
“In the entryway off a cramped two-bedroom house, a pair of pink backpacks idled on coat hooks.” The two girls have not been in school in weeks,” according to Laura Yeun. Their daughters are United States citizens, but their parents, Fermin and Maricruz, were born in Mexico, and have been living in Minnesota for 27 years.
“Maricruz and her husband, Fermin, have hardly left home since December. Their daughters know not to open the door. While classmates learned math, the girls huddled under a blanket, watching YouTube videos.”
Maricruz and Fermin asked Laura to use their first name only, fearing they could be deported like other immigrants—even though they’re authorized to be in the United States.
“Their daughters are U.S. citizens, but Maricruz worries agents could use the girls to lure her and her husband outside.”
“Teachers, neighbors, and strangers routinely drop groceries and puzzles on the family’s doorstep.” They live in a suburban cul-de-sac in Shakopee. “But the blinds are drawn, towels and blankets draped over the windows.”
“Fermin, who’s lived in Minnesota for 26 years, longs to return to work, but the family passes time by playing cards—and praying the rosary. They pray for Renée Good and Alex Pretti.”
“As his daughter asked God to watch over friends, teachers, and her bus driver, Fermin tried to stifle his tears; ‘It is sad because I thought in this country, they would have a better life.’”