An Update: "Minnesota 15 Anti-Repression CommitteeAug 16, 2026, 10:57 AMTextAugust 16th, 2026 - Two Months InThank you to everyone for your overwhelming support of the Minnesota 15 who are facing federal charges for their work to defend their communities against the violence of Operation Metro Surge. Because of each of you, the defendants know that thousands of people are standing with them just as they stood with their communities against ICE.Despite the serious financial costs of repression, including lost wages and jobs, legal fees, and federal agents’ unnecessary damage to their homes during their arrests, your donations mean that the defendants have a strong safety net to support themselves and their families.Since their arrests:The #Minnesota15 appeared in federal court in Minneapolis for the first time on July 1, where they unanimously pleaded not guilty. 250 people rallied outside the courthouse beforehand, and speakers included union activists, community leaders, and defendants from the 15 and other cases.We learned that the one of the federal prosecutors for the case, Brian Lynch, participated in the January 6 riot in Washington DC and now leads the charge to criminalize community defense against ICE.With the release of the prosecution’s evidence to the defense, we now know that the Department of Justice conducted a “mass spying campaign” against not only anti-ICE protestors but also political groups and unions.Minnesota15.org was set up so supporters can read more about the case and find links to the campaign’s social media pages. Stay tuned for more actions to join and ways to support.With the recent release of evidence from the federal government, we see clearly what we have known all along: this case is not only directed at the Minnesota 15. It is directed at everyone who dares to stand in solidarity with their neighbors against the violent and deadly attacks of ICE, which continue nationwide. By fighting the charges together, the Minnesota 15 continue to lead by example, showing us that those who defend their communities against ICE will not be scared into silence. The work of keeping our neighborhoods, schools, and workplaces safe continues.Hear from the Minnesota 15!There will be a press conference this upcoming Tuesday to discuss the recent evidence of mass spying by the federal government. A number of defendants are slotted to speak, as are community and labor leaders. If you’re in the area, come show your support!Time: 8am Tuesday, August 18thLocation: Target HQ at S 10th St. and Nicollet Mall in Downtown #Minneapolis"https://chuffed.org/project/186570-minnesota-15-legal-defense-fund/updates/01a00b4a-ccb9-7b82-baad-e1b606b71013
