Editorial: We Are All Minneapolis

No, we do not yet have masked federal agents storming Del Mar neighborhoods. But we are affected in profound ways by the federal violence perpetrated in Minneapolis, LA, Portland, Chicago, Washington and other targeted Blue cities. Closer to home, CalMatters reports that a “quieter escalation unfolded in San Diego” late last year, resulting in a 1500% increase in arrests in San Diego and Imperial Counties compared to the same period a year earlier. “Agents also swept Home Depot parking lots in Encinitas, National City and San Marcos…and made arrests near public schools.”

We are affected in myriad ways by this federal violence, overreach and callousness. Many of us feel shame and helplessness about these egregious acts committed in our name. Some of our residents and many who work in our homes and businesses are experiencing real fear. Many who are deeply rooted in communities all across our state and country are suffering as their families are torn asunder. Those whose skin is anything but white face a realistic prospect of being swept up in these indiscriminate raids. For some it is risky to pick up your kids from school, make a trip to the hardware store, or even go to the courthouse for a scheduled hearing relating to your immigration status.

The vast majority of immigrants arrested have no criminal record, even while the Trump Administration continues to claim that they are “the worst of the worst,” and the President himself shamelessly calls them “garbage.” We are all profoundly debased by this conduct and language.

Every Saturday morning between 11 and 12 many Del Mar residents gather near City Hall  at 11th and CDM to protest these massive violations of civil and human rights. And on March 28, they will join with others nationwide in the next NO KINGS demonstrations, joining forces with Carmel Valley to maximize local impact. 

Yes, we are all Minneapolis.  And as Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey warned, “If we do not speak up, if we do not step up, it will be your city that is next.”  Together, we can bring an end to the deep turmoil that has been inflicted all across our land, and restore us to a land of liberty and decency.