Nearly 400 Woodburians gave up several hours of their Saturday to learn about Operation Metro Surge and how they can be involved as upstanders and legal observers in our community.

The training was offered by Monarca at The Grove United Methodist Church. After a morning session filled quickly, an additional afternoon session was scheduled.

Monarca defines itself as “a coalition of well over 20,000 Minnesotans trained as ‘Upstanders’ to help protect people’s rights where it matters most – on the ground, in our communities.” Upstanders are people who speak or act in support of an individual or cause, particularly those who intervene on behalf of a person being harmed, attacked or bullied.

During increased ICE intervention, Upstanders who are English speaking adults are encouraged to share information about legal rights with targeted people, observe and record actions of federal agents and offer solidarity as a moral witness.

Volunteers and staff from Monarca carefully reviewed cautions for legal observers as well as appropriate preparation, rights and responsibilities. Participants were given an opportunity to join the Monarca active response network and add their number to the rapid response line for reporting active ICE enforcement actions.

Sen. Amanda Hemmingsen-Jaeger shared with her constituents: “I took Upstander Training through Monarca this past weekend. It was a packed training and highly informative. I recommend it to anyone who is looking to feel a better sense of control and coming together as a community.”