October 20, 2025

This action, as I understand, was FBI led and ICE supported. I will keep my message brief to insure there is, to my knowledge, no misinformation. 

The action created chaos and harm regardless of what the original scope of the action was intended to be (see KTVB and Statesman coverage for context and more): children targeted for the color of their skin and social location swept up and zip tied and terrified for their life. PODER and ACLU of Idaho are on the scene working to create safe conditions, to advocate for individuals’ legal rights, and try to relieve the trauma. Many partners in the advocacy and faith community are working on the ground and behind the scenes. 

For the moment:

• Pray for those in harms ways, for law enforcement, and for constructive dialogue with the legal authorities, local community, and advocates.
• Call on our state elected leaders to have compassion towards immigrants. 
• Be critical thinkers of the varying messaging that is coming out and the misinformation among it and always seek to understand and amplify the voice of those people with less power in the situation. 
• Strategize alongside immigrants themselves; practice solidarity.
• Donate to the Idaho Families Assistance Fund to be used to help families with any needs associated with immigration related separation.
• ELCA Lutherans reading this might revisit our ELCA Social Message on Immigration.
• Additional opportunities for public witness and support may be needed in the coming days. We will do our best to keep you posted.

Remember:

Love insists on the dignity of every human being.

Love insists on justice for the marginalized and oppressed.

Love insists that the church must reflect God’s diverse life-giving community.

Love insists that we listen, speak, and act with respect, even in disagreement.

Love insists on hope, trusting that God’s kingdom of justice and peace will prevail.

Bishop Meggan Manlove