San Diego Foundation is deeply saddened and profoundly troubled by the recent deaths of two Minnesota residents – Renée Nicole Good and Alex Pretti – during federal immigration enforcement operations. These were Americans whose lives were cut short amid actions by federal agents that have sparked nationwide concern, protest and calls for accountability.

These tragedies are not about politics. They are human losses that strike at the core of fundamental American values — the right to life, the right to safety, and the right to peacefully observe, protest and participate in civic life without fear. Across the country, millions of people are raising questions about the use of force, transparency and respect for civil rights in federal enforcement actions.

We mourn with the families, friends and communities who have lost loved ones. We grieve the erosion of trust that many feel when constitutional rights — protections that should be guaranteed for all — appear to be disregarded. We affirm that every individual should be able to go to work, pick up their children from school, and exercise their civic voice without fear of violence or unchecked authority.

San Diego Foundation stands unwaveringly for justice, equity and resilience. We believe in nurturing a compassionate, inclusive community where our empathy guides civic engagement and where peaceful demonstration is a cornerstone of our vibrant democracy.

We recognize the pain, fear and uncertainty that recent events in Minnesota have unleashed. Even so, we must be clear: what we are witnessing across our country — the loss of life in contexts that demand accountability and respect for civil rights — demands vigorous reflection from every American and decisive action from our leaders.
There is absolutely a way for the rule of law, due process, civil rights, and personal safety to coexist, and that is the standard we must insist our leaders uphold in this unsettling time.

As Americans, and as a community committed to opportunity and dignity for all, we face a defining choice about the kind of country and communities we want for ourselves and for our children. San Diego Foundation will continue to invest in those furthest from opportunity and support organizations that promote justice, uphold human dignity, and encourage civic participation — here in our region and beyond.

Now is the moment to channel our grief and our values into action: demand transparency, accountability and humane policy; uplift voices historically marginalized; and strengthen the civic bonds that protect liberty and justice for all. Together, we can help ensure that our democracy lives up to its highest ideals.