Yara Shahidi reacts to ICE raids and fatal shootings in Minneapolis, calling for protection of families amid rising tensions and community unrest
American actress and producer Yara Sayeh Shahidi, known for her role in Grown‑ish, has expressed deep concern over recent tragedies tied to federal immigration enforcement in Minneapolis, warning that raids by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) are tearing families and communities apart.
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In an Instagram post on Tuesday night, Shahidi — who grew up in Minnesota — described herself as “a worried Minnesotan” and criticised the raids led by immigration agents operating in the city, saying protective layers against cold weather offered little defence against what she called aggressive enforcement actions.
“I grew up layering up to endure Minneapolis winters. Now, many of us are witnessing that no amount of layers can protect us from ICE,” she wrote.
“No matter the pretense, the goal has ALWAYS been destruction. The goal has been to see how quickly they can unravel families, communities, and love.”
Shahidi’s remarks come amid outrage following recent fatal shootings by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis.
In early January, an ICE agent shot and killed 37‑year‑old Renée Nicole Good during a raid, a tragedy that sparked protests and calls for federal agents to leave the city.
Good’s shooting heightened tensions and clashes between local officials and federal authorities.
Days later, another fatal encounter involving federal agents and a 37‑year‑old ICU nurse, Alex Pretti, resulted in controversy and widespread criticism over the tactics used by immigration enforcement officers.
In her post, Shahidi paid tribute to those who lost their lives, saying their names “must live on,” and stressed that her comments were rooted in concern rather than self‑interest.
She rejected accusations of seeking attention and urged that the focus remain on protecting families and resisting actions she sees as harmful.
“I’m a grieving Minnesotan. I’m a PROUD MINNESOTAN as my city has continued to show us what standing up for community looks like,” she wrote, while calling on followers to support one another and defend communal bonds.
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The ICE raids have drawn national attention, protests and political debate, with local leaders demanding accountability and federal oversight.
