To the editor:

As Catholics within or from New Ulm, Sleepy Eye, and surrounding areas, we are deeply disturbed and saddened by current immigration enforcement actions taking place within our state and by the lack of a public response from our parish leaders. We are also disappointed by Representative Finstad’s refusal to acknowledge the harm being done to our immigrant communities or to express sympathy for Renee Good and her loved ones.

With the U. S. Catholic bishops, we pray for an end to violence and the use of dehumanizing rhetoric within our country. With them we also advocate for an immediate end to indiscriminate mass deportations.

To our neighbors living in fear: we stand with you. To our fellow Catholics who are also heartbroken and weary: you are not alone. We share your grief and your desire to uphold the dignity of all people.

— Sarah Robison Schneider, New Ulm; Kristin Sprenger, New Ulm; Barb Jahnke, New Ulm; Chris Loetscher, New Ulm; Connie Grams, New Ulm; Jean Wolfe, New Ulm; Marja and Dan Sowers, New Ulm; Mitchell Palmer, Hibbing, (formerly New Ulm); Rose Hoolihan, Grand Rapids, (formerly New Ulm); Randy Krzmarzick, Sleepy Eye; Lori Sellner, Sleepy Eye; Ruth Mecklenburg, Sleepy Eye; Andy Graves, Winthrop; Lauretta Stutsman, Winthrop; Cecilia Zendejas, Winthrop