In Response to ICE

Our name—Accola—comes from the Latin word meaning neighbor, companion, or dweller nearby. It reflects both our heritage and our purpose: to stand alongside our neighbors, to cultivate belonging, and to be present with one another in community. 

With the increasing ICE presence in our communities, many Learning In Style students and residents of Sarah’s … an Oasis for Women are living in fear—afraid to leave their homes for work, school, or essential daily needs. This fear undermines dignity, safety, and the basic human right to live freely within one’s community. 

We believe this is unacceptable. 

Accola stands in solidarity with our immigrant neighbors and with all who are impacted by policies and practices that create fear and isolation. We remain committed to creating spaces of safety, support, and compassionate connection, and to advocating for the dignity and wellbeing of every person we serve. 

We have received a few questions seeking guidance on what to do if a community member encounters an ICE Officer. Below are a few reminders: 

1. Stay calm. If others are present, encourage them to remain calm as well. 

2. Take videos and pictures to document the encounter. Do not livestream or post to social media without talking to an immigrants' rights group. 

3. Step back if asked. Do not run, argue, resist, or fight the officer 

4. You are not obligated to provide any information to the ICE officer. 

5. Do not open the door if you are at your home. ICE agents can only enter your home if you grant them access 
   

Want to become an Upstander Legal Observer? Get trained by Monarca, Raid Response Line. The Monarca Rapid Response Line is dedicated to responding to Federal enforcement activity in Minnesota, organizing both to oppose ICE activity and to build and strengthen immigrant communities. Minnesota’s strength is its diversity.   Join their upcoming trainings across the Twin Cities to be an Upstander: https://monarcamn.org/training 

Now, more than ever, we affirm our call to be good neighbors—showing up with courage, care, and an unwavering commitment to community. 

These are challenging times, but at Accola we face them together; grounded in our values of inclusion, compassion, and care. Thank you for standing with us to create communities where every person feels supported.