Nekima Levy Armstrong Arrested by FBI Over Minnesota Church Protest
Attorney General Pam Bondi has announced the arrest of prominent activist Nekima Levy Armstrong, who led an anti-immigration enforcement protest that disrupted a church service in Minnesota. The arrest comes as Vice President JD Vance prepares to visit the state, adding political significance to the incident.
Details of the Church Protest and Arrest
According to official statements, Levy Armstrong was taken into custody days after protesters entered Cities Church in St. Paul during Sunday services. Bondi shared this update on social media platform X, confirming the FBI's involvement in the arrest.
The targeted church is notable because its pastor also serves as a local official with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), making it a symbolic location for anti-ICE demonstrations. The protest reportedly interrupted the religious service, drawing attention to immigration enforcement policies.
Who is Nekima Levy Armstrong?
Nekima Levy Armstrong is a well-known longtime activist in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. Her activism career includes organizing local protests following several high-profile police killings of Black Americans, including:
- George Floyd
- Philando Castile
- Jamar Clark
She previously served as president of the Minneapolis branch of the NAACP, demonstrating her leadership role in civil rights advocacy. Her arrest marks a significant development in her activist career and highlights ongoing tensions around immigration enforcement in the United States.
Political Context and Timing
The timing of this arrest is particularly noteworthy as Vice President JD Vance prepares to visit Minnesota. The incident underscores the continuing national debate about immigration policy and protest rights. Attorney General Pam Bondi's announcement adds an official dimension to what began as a local protest action.
This developing story represents another chapter in the ongoing dialogue about immigration enforcement, protest rights, and the intersection of politics and activism in contemporary America.
