Minneapolis City Council Rejects Contract Extensions For Rev. Jerry McAfee’s Organizations

Minneapolis City Council Rejects Contract Extensions For Rev. Jerry McAfee’s Organizations

MINNEAPOLIS — Aug. 26, 2025 — The Minneapolis City Council on Monday voted against extending contracts for two organizations affiliated with Rev. Jerry McAfee, a prominent North Minneapolis pastor and community activist.

Rev. Jerry McAfee

McAfee, who leads New Salem Missionary Baptist Church, operates several nonprofits including Salem Inc. and 21 Days of Peace, which focus on violence prevention and community trauma response. The proposed contracts would have allocated a combined $651,124 over one year for services such as grief counseling, mentorship programs, and community intervention initiatives.

The council’s decision follows a series of controversies surrounding McAfee and his organizations. Earlier this year, McAfee drew criticism for remarks made during a city council meeting that some members described as threatening and homophobic. In addition, two individuals associated with his nonprofit 21 Days of Peace were charged in connection with a March shootout in North Minneapolis.

Despite these incidents, McAfee’s organizations have historically received substantial city funding. Since 2022, they have been awarded nearly a dozen contracts totaling approximately $1.6 million. The Neighborhood Safety Department had recommended the extensions, citing the groups’ experience and data supporting their effectiveness in trauma response.

The council’s rejection signals a shift in the city’s approach to community-based violence prevention, emphasizing accountability and public trust in the allocation of municipal funds. The decision reflects ongoing debates over balancing support for local initiatives with oversight of organizations led by controversial figures.

MinneapoliMedia