Black Business Enterprises
A Statement of Solidarity with Immigrant Communities

At Black Business Enterprises (BBE), we speak clearly and directly regarding the recent ICE activity and harassment affecting immigrant families across Minnesota.

This is our fight.

Immigrants are not outsiders — we are neighbors, business owners, workers, parents, faith leaders, and essential contributors to the cultural and economic fabric of this state. When any group is targeted or made to live in fear, it endangers the safety and dignity of us all.

I say this not only as the CEO of Black Business Enterprises, but as an immigrant myself — someone who arrived with hope and determination, yet faced uncertainty, barriers, scrutiny, and sacrifice along the way.

BBE was founded on the belief that economic empowerment, dignity, and access are human rights. Our mission stands firmly at the intersection of racial justice, immigrant justice, and community stability. Black liberation is inseparable from immigrant liberation.

Let us be clear:

• We stand in full solidarity with our immigrant brothers and sisters.
• We reject fear-based tactics and harassment that destabilize families and communities.
• Our strength has always come from unity, advocacy, and collective action rooted in love and justice — never from violence.

Now is the time for courage, not silence.

Now is the moment to protect one another, to speak up, and to demonstrate to our children what true solidarity looks like in action.

To our immigrant community: you are seen, you are valued, and you are not alone.

To the broader community: this moment calls for empathy, education, and unwavering support.

Together, we will continue building a Minnesota where opportunity is defined not by birthplace, accent, or immigration status — but by our shared humanity.