Resilience and Community in Minneapolis
Having grown up in Minneapolis and spending over 30 years of my life here, I’ve experienced many transitions—growth, and lack thereof—but I have never known life here to be lacking in diversity, culture, or language. As a child, my understanding of America was that it valued diversity and welcomed immigrants, offering sanctuary and refuge from struggle. I thought it was incredible that we could hold such a wide spectrum of foods, cultures, languages, and religions.
With time, I came to understand that this belief was only partially true. My whiteness and the school textbooks I was given afforded me the privilege of believing this country accepted all of its people. In reality, this country has never fully respected everyone, nor has it ever provided equal rights or treatment to all. What we are witnessing now is not new to many people in this country—the difference is access to information and increased visibility, with cameras now in the hands of nearly everyone. This is history repeating itself, and it is scary and overwhelming, especially for immigrant families who are being asked to live, work, and raise children under constant fear and uncertainty.
I want to be clear: I stand in solidarity with immigrant communities. You belong here. Your presence, culture, labor, and care are essential to this city and this country. Minneapolis would not be what it is without you. It’s likely that the road forward will be long, but I am committed to helping however I am able.
I encourage any community member to reach out with their needs. If you are seeking help or healing and need extra support to feel safe, please contact me directly. I will do my best to help coordinate efforts so you can receive care in a way that feels accessible, respectful, and supportive.
Even if your need is unrelated to massage or my services—if you simply know that I am in the area and need support—you are welcome to reach out at any time. I may not always have the solution, but I will do my best to assist or help connect you with someone who can better support you.
Healing and community care matter. You do not have to navigate this alone.
Resources:
Monarca Rapid Response Line: 612-441-2881
Immigrant Defense Network (IDN) Hotline: 612-255-3112