In brief
In an open letter published on the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce website, over 60 CEOs from notable companies like Target and Best Buy have called for immediate collaboration among government leaders to address rising tensions following federal immigration enforcement operations leading to protests and economic disruption. The CEOs emphasize the need for peace and cooperative solutions to support families and businesses across the state.
NEW YORK (AP) — More than 60 CEOs of Minnesota-based companies, including Target, Best Buy, and UnitedHealth, signed an open letter posted on the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce website on Sunday calling for state, local, and federal officials to collaborate amid growing tensions resulting from federal immigration enforcement actions. The letter urges government leaders to work together toward finding peaceful solutions following two fatal shootings by federal agents during a significant immigration operation, which sparked widespread protests.The letter stated, 'With yesterday’s tragic news, we are calling for an immediate deescalation of tensions and for state, local and federal officials to work together to find real solutions.' Among the CEOs who signed the letter are William Brown (3M), Corie Barry (Best Buy), Jeff Harmening (General Mills), Michael Fiddelke (Target), and Stephen Helmsley (UnitedHealth Group).Prior to this public statement, many of Minnesota's largest corporations had remained silent on the immigration enforcement surge and resulting unrest. As protests grew, particularly targeting companies perceived not to be taking a firm stand like Target, the CEOs felt pressure to address the situation. Following an uproar, a Minnesota hotel that had initially denied federal agents accommodation later apologized, admitting it violated its own policies.This weekend, state officials reported devastating economic impacts due to the enforcement operations, citing that some businesses experienced a sales drop of up to 80%. Minnesota has filed a lawsuit requesting the cessation of federal immigration sweeps, highlighting the urgency of resolving these issues.In closing, the letter calls for 'peace and focused cooperation among local, state and federal leaders to achieve a swift and durable solution that enables families, businesses, our employees, and communities across Minnesota to resume our work to build a bright and prosperous future.'
