The basic tenets of democracy are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. But earlier this year, in the heart of the Midwest, those promises were denied. Denial of due process. Denial of the opportunity to build a better life. The denial of life itself.
With public education as the cornerstone of democracy, Education Minnesota was rightly poised and prepared to respond.
For nearly three decades, Education Minnesota has been a leading voice for justice and excellence in public education across the state. They are fiercely protective of the students they educate and the communities they serve—standing not only for educators, but for the dignity, safety, and future of all Minnesotans.
When Operation Metro Surge was launched in the Twin Cities in December 2025—spreading across the state in early 2026 and targeting individuals for detainment—Education Minnesota did what it has always done: it stood up.
Years of organizing meant the Union didn’t have to get ready—it was already ready. Deep community ties and an unwavering commitment to racial and social justice allowed Education Minnesota and its Locals to move swiftly into action.
In Minneapolis, educators organized safety patrols around schools and ensured students could travel safely when families feared sending them into harm’s way. They provided transportation, food, and clothing to families whose ability to work and provide had suddenly been put at risk. Across the river in St. Paul and throughout the state, locals mobilized resources and support systems to meet the moment with care and resolve.
That readiness proved decisive. In February 2026, Education Minnesota led a landmark federal lawsuit in the United States District Court against the Department of Homeland Security, seeking to block immigration enforcement at or near public schools. Partnering seamlessly with a broad coalition of school districts—from St. Paul to Duluth and beyond—the union made a powerful case: that such actions would irreparably harm students’ access to education, in direct conflict with the principles established in Brown v. Board of Education.
Meanwhile, in St. Paul, more than $200,000 to support families facing sudden economic hardship during the surge. Education Minnesota also pivoted quickly to expand virtual learning—adapting tools once used during a pandemic to meet the realities of a climate shaped by fear and harassment.
In a moment when even showing support carried real risk, courage—not just allyship—took shape on the streets of Minnesota.
For walking the walk when the risks became real, and for standing unapologetically with those most vulnerable, Education Minnesota is a truly deserving recipient of this year’s NEA President’s Award.
