From Crisis to Coalition: Lessons from the Front Lines

With the recent ICE incursion, Minneapolis has become a national focal point in the fight to defend civil rights and immigrant communities. The Unity Summit offers a rare opportunity to learn directly from Minnesotans who have been on the front lines—organizing, resisting, and protecting their neighbors during this critical moment.

Participants will gain practical knowledge and tools to defend their communities and build powerful coalitions capable of driving political, social, and economic change as we approach the midterm elections.

On Saturday, June 27, we will visit Southeast Asian, Somali, and Latino communities that are directly impacted by the ICE incursion. Community leaders and residents will share how they organized rapid-response networks, supported vulnerable families, and stood together during this challenging time.

On Sunday, June 28, we will convene at the University of Minnesota for a day of panels and presentations focused on coalition-building, civic engagement, and the power of narrative in shaping public policy and public opinion.

Who Should Attend

The AAUC Unity Summit is designed for community leaders, organizers, advocates, students, faith leaders, and anyone committed to defending civil rights and strengthening immigrant communities.

Day 1, Saturday, June 27

Welcome ceremony, board buses to visit community leaders and residents:

• Southeast Asian community visit at Hmongtown Marketplace
• Somali community
• Latino community
• Debriefing
• Dinner Reception at Diane's Place, $25 extra

Day 2, Sunday, June 28

McNamara Alumni Center, University of Minnesota, 200 SE Oak St, Minneapolis:

• Session 1: Civil Rights in an Era of Federal Overreach
• Session 2: Q&A with Kaohly Her, Mayor of St. Paul, MN (invited)
• Session 3: AANHPI Communities on the Frontlines
• Lunch and Networking
• Session 4: Working with Local & State Government
• Session 5: Lessons from Minneapolis Movements
• Session 6: Beyond Protest, Building Long-Term Political Power
• Closing

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Host or Publisher Asian American Unity Coalition