Immigration

Immigration is a hot topic this election year. But the issue isn’t just political. It’s personal. MPR News host Angela Davis co-hosted a North Star Journey Live conversation with experts who gave us an intimate look at how the border crisis is impacting Minnesota’s immigrant families.
Without total DFL support, the North Star Act is going south
DFL lawmakers are calling to make Minnesota a sanctuary state for immigrants, but support is lacking from both sides of the aisle. Hear from DFL State Senator Grant Hauschild on why he’s not supporting the bill.
Negotiators release $118 billion border bill as GOP leaders call it dead in the House
Senate negotiators have reached an agreement on a $118 billion bipartisan bill to address the U.S. border with Mexico. The Senate is expected to hold an initial procedural vote on the bill this week.
One year ago today, President Joe Biden initiated a new sponsorship program called Welcome Corps that allows everyday people to sponsor individuals seeking refuge in the U.S. We talk to two Minnesotans involved in the program.
St. Cloud mental health center aims to be a bridge to healing
Ali Aden and Lul Nur moved from the Twin Cities more than a year ago to provide culturally specific mental health services for the East African community, which St. Cloud lacked. 
Minnesota's population bounces back: 5 takeaways from latest census estimates
Minnesota is one of 11 states that gained population in 2023 after a decline in 2022. According to the latest figures, the state’s population is now nearly 5,738,000, growing by almost 24,000 from 2022 to 2023.
Despite legalization, cannabis can still have legal impact for immigrants who aren’t U.S. citizens
On Aug. 1, Minnesota became the 23rd state in the country to legalize cannabis for recreational use. But cannabis continues to be a Schedule 1 drug under federal law, which could have consequences for non U.S. citizens. 
The migrant surge at the Southern border hit a record of over 2.4 million. Republicans say it's a failure of Biden's policies. The U.N. says, globally, there's never been so many displaced people.
Sahan Journal founder, CEO Mukhtar Ibrahim stepping down
Mukhtar Ibrahim said the move is personal — he wants to spend more time with family — and that the organization is “stronger than ever.” He joined Cathy Wurzer on Minnesota Now Monday at noon to talk about the decision.