Mayor Scott Gillingham expressed his desire for peace to be restored in Minneapolis, Winnipeg’s sister city, amidst unrest caused by the presence of armed U.S. immigration agents and allegations of civil rights violations, including the tragic death of Renee Good on January 7.
Gillingham conveyed his support to Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey through a text message, highlighting the challenges faced by Frey in his role. The two mayors had previously discussed concerns about U.S. tariffs on Canadian exports during a virtual meeting in early 2025.
Reflecting on the current state of affairs, Gillingham emphasized the unpredictability and escalating tensions globally, particularly in the United States. He commended Prime Minister Mark Carney’s speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, which addressed the shifting international order and emphasized the need to uphold values of freedom, equality, and opportunity.
Gillingham stressed the importance of unity among Canadians and government officials to safeguard their cities, businesses, and national security during uncertain times. He also highlighted the necessity of preparedness for potential scenarios, such as an influx of U.S. residents seeking refuge in Canada or supporting military families in Winnipeg in case of Canadian Armed Forces deployment elsewhere.
In response to the evolving landscape, Gillingham initiated discussions within his team to formulate strategic questions and contingency plans for Winnipeg’s emergency services. He emphasized the importance of vigilance and readiness while closely monitoring global developments.
Carney’s acknowledgment of the current rupture in the established order resonated with Gillingham, who echoed the sentiment that Canada must adapt to the changing dynamics on the world stage.