Statistics indicate a decline in Americans’ sense of community, with fewer people knowing their neighbors and engaging in local activities. However, recent events in Minnesota demonstrate a powerful counter-narrative: a widespread display of neighborly support and resistance.
A Nation Disconnecting
A Pew Research Center survey released last year revealed a decrease in the number of Americans who know all of their neighbors between 2018 and 2025. Further, 63 percent of respondents reported never gathering with neighbors to improve their community, and only 27 percent described their neighborhoods as close-knit. A 2024 survey found that roughly half of Americans seldom or never speak with neighbors they don’t know well. This trend, sociologist Robert D. Putnam documented in his 2000 book Bowling Alone, has been unfolding for decades, dating back to the 1970s.
Minnesota’s Response
In recent months, a surge of community action in Minnesota has challenged this trend. Residents have mobilized to confront federal agents from Border Patrol and ICE, demonstrating a willingness to risk personal safety to protect their neighbors. This response has been described as one of the greatest mass displays of neighborly love in recent memory.
The current administration has frequently characterized immigrants as threats, with the Department of Homeland Security posting a social media image last summer urging people to “report all foreign invaders.” President Trump has used dehumanizing language, referring to immigrants as “animals” and calling Somalis “garbage.” He has also publicly displayed mugshots of immigrants arrested in Minnesota, questioning whether citizens “want to live with these people.” Despite claiming to target criminals and those here illegally, the administration has arrested individuals with no criminal record, detained citizens, and reportedly engaged in racial profiling.
“These Are Our Neighbors”
Videos emerging from Minnesota show agents questioning and detaining individuals based on their accents. However, many are rejecting the notion that someone’s background disqualifies them from being a neighbor. The word “neighbor” has become a rallying cry, appearing in videos and interviews with local residents. Following the shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent, a witness was recorded shouting, “You just killed my fucking neighbor! … You’re killing my neighbors. You’re stealing my neighbors.” Protests in Minneapolis, despite temperatures as low as 20 degrees below zero, featured signs reading “Love thy neighbor,” “Stop disappearing our neighbors,” and “We love our immigrant neighbors.”
This outpouring of support extends beyond Minnesota, with local groups in cities like Chicago and Baltimore monitoring ICE activity, and schools and hospitals across the country preparing for potential federal agent encounters. People are offering practical assistance, such as delivering groceries to those afraid to leave their homes.
What Might Happen Next
It is possible that the actions in Minnesota could inspire similar displays of community solidarity in other areas facing increased federal enforcement. The administration may respond by increasing its presence in these areas, potentially escalating tensions. Alternatively, sustained public pressure could lead to a reevaluation of current immigration policies. It is also likely that local organizations will continue to develop and refine strategies for protecting their communities, such as the Signal groups currently monitoring ICE activity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Pew Research Center survey say about Americans’ connection to their neighbors?
The Pew Research Center survey from last year found that the share of Americans who know all of their neighbors decreased from 2018 to 2025. Additionally, 63 percent of respondents reported never getting together with their neighbors to improve their community.
What has been the administration’s rhetoric regarding immigrants?
The administration has described immigrants as threats and even as “animals” and “garbage.” They posted an image to social media urging people to “report all foreign invaders” and have publicly displayed mugshots of those arrested.
How have Minnesota residents responded to the increased presence of federal agents?
Minnesota residents have mobilized to confront federal agents, offering support to their neighbors and protesting the actions of Border Patrol and ICE. They have organized through local groups and social media to monitor activity and provide assistance.
What does it mean to be a good neighbor in a time of political division and uncertainty?
