Minnesota State University Mankato Student Detained by ICE Officers Friday

A Minnesota State University, Mankato student was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers on Friday. University president Edward Inch said in a letter to the campus community that he has been in contact with elected officials to ask for help in stopping this from happening to MSU students.

“Our international students play an important role in our campus and community. They are a valued part of our campus culture,” Inch said. “This action hurts what we try to accomplish as a university—supporting all learners to receive the education they desire to make the impact they want in their communities.”

The student was detained at an off-campus residence, according to Inch. Inch also noted that the University did not provide any information to ICE officials, nor did they request any information from the University.

US Senator Tina Smith released a statement on the incident: “This is becoming a deeply concerning pattern, where ICE detains students with little to no explanation, first at the University of Minnesota and now at Minnesota State University – Mankato, and ignores their rights to due process. I will keep pressing the administration for answers about these arrests and work to get answers from federal immigration authorities about this case.”

The full letter from President Inch to students and staff:

“Dear Campus Community, I am writing to share that last Friday, at an off-campus residence, one of our students was detained by officials from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). No reason was given. The University has received no information from ICE, and they have not requested any information from us. I have contacted our elected officials to share my concerns and ask for their help in stopping this activity within our community of learners. Our international students play an important role in our campus and community. They are a valued part of our campus culture. This action hurts what we try to accomplish as a university—supporting all learners to receive the education they desire to make the impact they want in their communities. I know this news is upsetting. If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out. Students, our Global Education Centers, Counseling Center, 211 Basic Needs Resource Hub, and Students United, among others, are all here for you. Your advisor can also help point you toward other resources. Faculty and staff can utilize the Employee Assistance Program, available through Human Resources.”
In partnership,
Edward Inch
President

We will update this story as more information becomes available