As part of the Cedar Riverside Protection Alliance, “Mamas of Cedar” patrol the neighborhood, educate residents of their rights and provide food for those who need it.
Since federal immigration agents began descending on the Twin Cities in December, Minnesotans have organized themselves as legal observers, neighborhood defense units and volunteers delivering groceries and giving car rides to people who are afraid to leave their homes.
Among them are a group of Cedar Riverside women, affectionately known as the “Mamas of Cedar,” who have taken it upon themselves to ensure that fellow mothers and other neighbors are aware of what is happening around them and have their basic needs met.
Nasteho Abdi, a 13-year resident of the neighborhood, is one of six mothers patrolling the neighborhood daily in neon-green vests and meeting residents in the lobbies of their buildings. She said the activity is a natural outgrowth of her involvement in the community.
“I didn’t even have to question myself,” she said. “It was a no-brainer.”