MESKWAKI SETTLEMENT, IOWA – January 27, 2026 – The Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa (Meskwaki Nation) is saddened and troubled by recent acts of violence connected to federal enforcement actions, including the deaths of people in Minneapolis. We stand in solidarity with the families and communities in Minnesota who are grieving and dealing with the fear and heightened tensions brought on by recent events.
No one, regardless of who they are, where they are from, or their background should ever fear being harmed or killed simply for standing in a public place. Every human being deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
We also want to acknowledge that fear and uncertainty are being felt much closer to home. Recently, a community member reported a frightening encounter with unknown individuals who asked whether the person had identification. Incidents like this can cause real fear and anxiety and contribute to a sense that people are not safe, even in our own community.
While similar federal enforcement actions have not been occurring here in Iowa yet, it is important to speak up about the value of human life wherever unnecessary violence happens. Indigenous people have long faced disproportionate harm from systems of enforcement and injustice, and that history adds to the fear and pain felt by Native people everywhere. We, the Meskwaki, are here today in our Tama County homeland because we persevered and chose to remain after being removed in 1845. Owing to the noble sacrifices and vision of our ancestors, we are still here.
But recent events are not just an Indigenous concern, this is about human life, safety, and basic dignity for all.
At the same time, we want to be clear that the Meskwaki Nation Police Department and our local law enforcement partners are here to protect and support our community. They work to build trust, respond to concerns, and keep people safe. Community members should feel confident reaching out to Tribal law enforcement when they have questions, concerns, or need assistance.
For anyone who may encounter federal immigration agents or individuals claiming to represent federal enforcement, these steps may help protect your safety and your rights:
- Remain calm and respectful.
• Present your identification, follow instructions, ask for the agent’s name, and report the encounter to the Meskwaki Nation Police Department or a Tribal Council Member. - If individuals are not properly identifying themselves or you are unsure whether they are legitimate federal agents, call 911 so local or Tribal law enforcement can respond and verify who they are.
• If it feels safe to do so, record what is happening.
The Meskwaki Nation is home to our people, and we stand with all families and all communities affected by unnecessary violence. We continue to affirm the importance of human dignity and the right of every person to live safely and without fear.
~ Meskwaki Tribal Council
Lucie Roberts, Chair
Mike Stacey, Vice Chair
Jarvis Bear, Treasurer
Zach Old Bear
Drayton Roberts
Demetreus Wanatee
Paige YoungBear-Brown
