In January, refugees in Minnesota — people who were lawfully admitted to the United States after fleeing violence and persecution — were arrested without warrants and transported across the country. Some were detained in handcuffs and shackles. These are individuals who had already been vetted and approved to rebuild their lives here.

On Jan. 28, U.S. District Judge John R. Tunheim issued a temporary restraining order blocking the U.S. Department of Homeland Security from carrying out additional arrests in Minnesota and requiring the release of those already detained. That order is set to expire on Feb. 25.

If it is not extended — or if federal leadership does not change course — thousands of refugees in Minnesota could once again face sudden arrest, detention, and separation from their families.

Minnesota is home to vibrant refugee communities from Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These neighbors work, raise children, attend school, pay taxes, and contribute to our state’s economy and culture. They came to the United States because it promised safety under the law. Arresting people without warrants, based on a reinterpretation of long-standing policy, undermines that promise and erodes trust in our institutions.

Respect for due process and protection against warrantless arrest are principles rooted in the Constitution and valued across the political spectrum. Refugees who were legally admitted and are not accused of crimes deserve transparency, fairness, and stability — not fear and uncertainty.

We call on Secretary of Homeland Security and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services leadership to block warrantless arrests of refugees in Minnesota, ensure no one is detained without clear legal justification and due process, and provide public clarity about any policy changes affecting refugee status.

Minnesota families deserve security. Refugees who followed the law deserve protection. Our constitutional values demand nothing less.