Religion on the Mind Tony Jones on “Neighborism” in Minnesota (#378)
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Feb 9, 2026 Tony Jones, Minnesotan writer and Reverend Dr. known for commentary on religion, politics, and community dynamics. He unpacks Minnesota’s identity, grassroots organizing after George Floyd, and the state’s neighbor-focused response to an ICE operation. They also explore political theater, local solidarity stories, and religion’s public role in protests.
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Corporate Caution Felt Out Of Touch
- Minnesota's local CEOs and institutions reacted with tepid calls to "de-escalate," which felt inadequate to many locals.
- Tony Jones argues corporate caution revealed how out-of-touch national elites can be during a local crisis.
Minnesota's Unique Civic Identity
- Tony describes a distinct Minnesotan identity: loyal, stoic, and civic-minded with strong local pride.
- He says that combination helps explain why Minnesota responded differently than other blue cities to federal incursions.
Post‑Protest Organization Changed Tactics
- After George Floyd, grassroots organization and disciplined best practices rose in Minneapolis neighborhoods.
- Dan and Tony say that organizational learning helped make recent protests more peaceful and strategic.