Residents of the Twin Cities will be honored with the 2026 John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Award, recognizing their response to federal immigration enforcement actions that significantly impacted St. Paul communities.

The award, presented by the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation, will also honor Jerome Powell for defending the independence of the Federal Reserve.

For St. Paul, the recognition reflects the local impact of Operation Metro Surge, a large-scale federal enforcement effort that disrupted neighborhoods, workplaces and schools across the city and broader metro area.

According to the foundation, more than 3,000 federal agents were deployed to the Twin Cities beginning in 2025, prompting widespread fear among immigrant communities and drawing national attention. In response, residents across St. Paul and Minneapolis organized protests, created rapid-response networks and provided support to affected families.

Organizers say St. Paul played a central role in those efforts, with community groups, faith leaders and small businesses mobilizing to protect neighbors and share information about enforcement activity.

The award highlights what the foundation described as “extraordinary courage and resolve,” noting that thousands of residents participated in peaceful demonstrations and community defense efforts despite personal risk.

The Profile in Courage Award is presented annually to individuals or groups who take principled stands in the face of political or personal consequences, reflecting ideals outlined in President John F. Kennedy’s 1957 book Profiles in Courage.

The 2026 awards will be presented May 31 at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston.

For St. Paul, the national recognition underscores the lasting civic and social impact of Operation Metro Surge and the city’s role in a broader movement advocating for immigrant rights and community protection.More information: jfklibrary.org.