The 2026 American Revolution vs. 1776 American Revolution

Recent protests against ICE in Minneapolis echo aspects of the colonial resistance in Boston before the American Revolution. In both cases, government authorities—whether British soldiers in the eighteenth century or federal immigration enforcement agents today—became highly visible symbols of unpopular policies. Protesters in Minneapolis have gathered to voice opposition to ICE's actions, sometimes resulting in tense confrontations with law enforcement. Similarly, colonists in Boston protested the presence and actions of the 'redcoats,' culminating in clashes that escalated into violence, most notably the Boston Massacre.

The historical Boston protests eventually led to deadly violence, and we are seeing the same with the Minneapolis protests.  Both movements reflect deep public frustration with perceived injustices and highlight how the presence of government agents can intensify conflict and galvanize opposition. The comparison underscores how protest movements, past and present, can escalate when communities feel their rights or values are threatened.

The Boston and Minneapolis protests both demonstrate how public frustration over perceived injustices can escalate into violence, especially when government agents are visible. In Boston, reducing the presence of British troops eased tensions; similarly, removing ICE from streets today could have a calming effect, though further action would still be necessary. To provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who have lived in the United States for years, contributed positively to their communities, and desire to stay, several legislative and policy solutions could be considered. Comprehensive immigration reform is often proposed as a means to address this issue. Such reform might include background checks, proof of continuous residence, payment of any back taxes, and demonstration of good moral character as prerequisites for legal status. Programs like Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or Temporary Protected Status (TPS) could be expanded or formalized into law, offering a legal process toward permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship for those meeting specific criteria.

Additionally, bipartisan efforts in Congress could focus on creating a fair and transparent process that balances border security with the humane treatment of long-term residents. Community engagement, legal aid, and advocacy can also play vital roles in shaping policy and ensuring that the dignity and contributions of immigrants are recognized and protected. Ultimately, the goal is to uphold American values by providing opportunities for integration and participation, rather than resorting to punitive measures that undermine the very principles of dignity and justice that many Americans cherish.

When will our Representatives and Senators across the aisles stand up for American Values and stand against the extreme tactics that are being used?  When will our Representatives and Senators on both sides of the aisle stand up and say "NO" to the tactics suggested by Stephen Miller, Homeland Security Advisor to Trump and Deputy Chief of Staff? 

HISTORICAL REFERENCES:

·        From 1763 to 1774 there were a series of Laws and Policies which British Parliament imposed upon the Thirteen Colonies. People began to protest these laws and policies with gatherings which sometimes became violent.  Some protesters, known as Sons of Liberty, even went so far as to tar and feather those who were loyal to Britain and even burn their homes. - especially in Boston. 

·        The violence got so bad that in 1768 Britain sent their soldiers into Boston.  The people called the soldiers 'redcoats' and showed their hatred of having them living amongst them by jeering at them in the streets, insulting them every chance they got and attempting to stop them from caring out the imposed  British 'laws and policies'.  

·        In 1770, an incident involving the insult of a British officer by a colonial youth led to violence. A soldier responded by striking the boy with his musket, prompting a gathering of onlookers. During the ensuing confrontation, Crispus Attucks—who was of African and Native American descent—struck a soldier, who then fired upon him, resulting in Attucks's immediate death. This event escalated further, culminating in what is now known as the Boston Massacre.