A few months ago, my coworker, Alex, moved from St. Louis to Minneapolis. This week I spent some time with him in person for the first time since the move, and we had a long chat about the horrifying recent/ongoing events in his new city.

If you haven’t followed the news, the quick version is that there are thousands of masked, armed men patrolling the streets, breaking into homes, and committing acts of violence with no accountability from the federal government. In the face of such danger and oppression, the people of Minneapolis/St. Paul have joined together to say in their words and actions that this isn’t right. They are taking care of each other. They are being good neighbors to each other.

Alex described the incredible sense of community that has emerged from the peaceful protests in Minneapolis. He also spoke of the small businesses who have spoke up against ICE without fear of retribution (or maybe some with fear–this is a scary situation) and how their words have power.

We see the tremendous weight of grief, anger, and fear that so many are carrying right now. No one should have to live with constant fear. Everyone deserves to feel safe, valued, and to be treated with dignity.

Stonemaier Games wholeheartedly supports the voices demanding an end to violence, calling for accountability, for true racial justice and equality, and for simple kindness and decency. We truly admire the power and necessity of peaceful protest. The care that Minnesotans (and so many others) are showing for one another by standing together, listening, helping, and protecting their communities, demonstrates incredible strength, compassion, and resilience.

Kindness matters. Especially during times like these.

As a company, and simply as people, we believe deeply in our shared humanity. Healing can only happen when we listen with empathy, acknowledge pain honestly, and hold space for one another.

While the path to change often feels slow, we hold onto hope. Hope that accountability, deeper understanding, and meaningful progress will emerge from moments like this. Your quiet determination should inspire us all. Please, look out for each other. We are not all the same, but we are undeniably stronger together.

Stonemaier Games stands with Inside Up Games in supporting organizations doing vital work on the ground. Groups like Monarca MN and MIRAC (Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee) focus on protecting, supporting, and caring for communities who are often the most vulnerable during difficult times, both in Minnesota and other places where these incursions are happening.

https://monarcamn.org/about

https://www.miracmn.com/

You are not alone. We see you, we support you, and we are sending care and solidarity from Missouri, Nevada, Florida, Oregon, and from within Minneapolis.

–Jamey, Alan, Susannah, Dave, Joe, Christine, Erica, and Alex