“A Manufactured Crisis”:Minnesota Communities Terrorized by the Federal Government

New Report Documents Extensive Human Rights Abuses, Calls for Accountability and Sweeping Reforms 

Human Rights Watch has launched a new report on the human rights crisis caused by the U.S. Federal Government in Minnesota during Operation Metro Surge. 

The report, “A Manufactured Crisis”: Minnesota Communities Terrorized by the Federal Government, details how federal agents engaged in widespread abuse during Operation Metro Surge, including two unlawful killings, racial profiling, unlawful detentions, excessive force, and abusive detention conditions, and how the operation disrupted access to health care, education, work, and food. The report also describes how many Minnesotans faced further abuses, including harassment, surveillance, violence, and arrests, when they collectively acted to protest, prevent, and stop these violations of their rights.  

Human Rights Watch held a press conference and roundtable discussion with human rights advocates last Thursday to launch the report. The press conference and roundtable were held at the University of Minnesota Law School with support from the Law School’s Human Rights Center, the Human Rights Program, the James H. Binger Center for New Americans, and others. 

People have a right to truth, justice, and accountability, including reparation for the harm caused. This report is a step towards ensuring accountability. 

Read the full report.

HRE USA is a project of the Center for Transformative Action.