Organizational Updates

February 2026

These are Troubling Times
The unprecedented surge of ICE activity that we are experiencing in Minneapolis—and all that accompanies it—is causing profound pain, fear, and uncertainty. Within the ICT community these impacts are being felt most of all by many of the youth and families with whom we work through our Community Programs. How to effectively respond in this moment has been, and continues to be, an ongoing conversation among ICT staff and board members, informed by thoughtful input and insight from many across our community. For that, we are deeply grateful. Thank you.

Our Commitment to Our Mission
During these difficult days, we are guided by our dedication to supporting Minneapolis youth—all Minneapolis youth—as they develop and unleash their potential both on and off the tennis court. At the heart of our mission is connecting kids with coaches who care about them, keeping them active, and creating a community in which they belong and truly matter.

Operations & Programming
As such, it is our plan to continue facilitating programming as we always have through our school and nonprofit partners across the city, and to keep the Reed Sweatt Family Tennis Center open during standard business hours. We believe our programs and coaches are more important than ever. Should our approach need to change, we will communicate updates clearly on our website and revise this statement accordingly. The Reed Sweatt Family Tennis Center is situated on Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) land, and remaining open during normal hours aligns with MPRB policy.

Safety & Policy Alignment
The MPRB has established policies prohibiting ICE staging and related activity on Park Board land, and we fully embrace those policies. We have posted the core elements of the MPRB and City of Minneapolis statements prohibiting ICE activity on City and Park property in and around our building. Additionally, we have placed signage on all non-public, staff-only areas inside our facility clearly indicating that those spaces are not open or available for law enforcement entry without a warrant.

We welcome your feedback and input as we continue to navigate this uncertain moment together. Please feel free to contact me directly at john.wheaton@innercitytennis.org.

Sincerely,

 

 

John Wheaton
Executive Director, InnerCity Tennis