By Cindy Hill
Representation matters. But representation also comes with responsibility. The people who serve our communities should be willing to answer difficult questions about their decisions, their alliances, and the impact those choices have on the people they represent.
For many families in Brooklyn Park, including members of the Liberian community and other immigrant communities, questions about immigration policy are deeply personal. They touch on family stability, safety, economic opportunity, and the ability to live without fear.
Minnesota’s experience with Operation Metro Surge brought these concerns into sharp focus. The federal operation brought thousands of immigration enforcement agents into Minnesota and raised serious concerns about enforcement practices and their effects on local families and businesses. A report from the Minnesota attorney general’s office documented concerns raised by residents about warrants and agents entering homes during the operation.
That experience also renewed scrutiny of U.S. Rep. Angie Craig’s vote for the Laken Riley Act, which expanded mandatory detention requirements for certain undocumented immigrants. In March 2026, Craig publicly expressed regret over her vote, while distinguishing the legislation from the later actions of the Trump administration during Operation Metro Surge.
These events raise an important question for every community: How should we evaluate the people and leaders who receive our support?
For Liberian families who have built lives, businesses, and relationships in Brooklyn Park, civic participation is an opportunity to help shape the community’s future. That participation includes asking questions, examining public records, listening to candidates, and understanding the positions of the people who seek to represent us.
Representation should be measured not only by who stands beside a leader, but also by the values, decisions, and responsibilities that come with that support.
When political leaders endorse other candidates, residents have every right to ask why. What policies do they support? What concerns have they raised? Have they acknowledged decisions they later regretted? And how do their actions align with the needs and priorities of the people they serve?
These questions are not about questioning anyone’s right to support a candidate. They are about recognizing that public trust requires transparency and accountability.
Brooklyn Park is home to people with different backgrounds, experiences, and political perspectives. Our community is strongest when residents can participate in public life, ask difficult questions, and expect elected officials to take their concerns seriously.
As Nov. 3 approaches, residents have an opportunity to learn about the candidates, consider their records and priorities, and decide what kind of leadership they want for Brooklyn Park.
Representation matters. Accountability matters, too. Both deserve thoughtful consideration when we decide who will help shape our community’s future.
Cindy Hill is a 37-year resident of Brooklyn Park, community advocate, business owner and chief financial officer.
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