Minneapolis has long been more than just a geographic location. Internationally, the city has come to symbolize protest, police violence, and political tension – but also solidarity and mutual aid.Amid this complex situation, musicians and cultural workers are trying to find their place between art, activism, and very tangible support for their communities. We spoke with Tommy Ratz of Minneapolis-based electro-punk band Toilet Rats about the current situation on the ground, about solidarity beyond symbolic gestures, the role of art in times of crisis, and what it means to make music when even everyday life feels unsafe.

Crazewire: Minneapolis has become a symbol of protest, trauma, but also solidarity over the past weeks. How is the city’s subculture or art scene dealing with the current situation?

Tommy: The city as a whole – and St. Paul definitely has to be included, since the two are essentially connected – along with large parts of Minnesota, has come together to denounce inhumane treatment and unconstitutional actions against our friends and neighbors. The art scene is producing graphics, content, songs, and more. Things that are visually striking naturally tend to get noticed first. But you know who’s really doing an incredible amount of work right now? Moms. Every day I see them standing guard outside the school near my house, wearing high-visibility vests.

Photo: Dena Denny

Crazewire: Political tension feels omnipresent in the U.S. right now. As a musician, do you feel increased pressure to take a political stance – or to deliberately avoid one? Especially now, many artists seem to be clearly positioning themselves against Trump and ICE.

Tommy: Sometimes I’m not sure whether I’m even capable of adequately articulating the full scope of what’s happening in the world – and very specifically in my own neighborhood. Most of my songs are about ghouls and monsters. At the same time, there are very real ghouls and monsters seizing power and causing harm. Right now, everything feels like a classic “all hands on deck” situation. And that looks different for everyone. My role at the moment is providing very concrete assistance where there are shortages – food, rent, and legal representation.

Crazewire: Together with artist Evil J and Matt from Steadfast Records, you designed a charity T-shirt whose proceeds support people and businesses in Minneapolis. What is the core idea behind this campaign?

Tommy: I’ll probably use the funds to help a few restaurants that have been shuttered for over a month now. I’d hate to see them close permanently. They’re vital parts of our community and provide jobs for people who live here. Depending on how much is raised, I’ll look around and see where else help is needed. The needs are many.

Crazewire: The T-shirt pre-order directly supports people and places in your local scene. Why does this kind of solidarity matter so much right now – emotionally as well?

Tommy: You have to show up for people when they’re down. A lot of people have done the same for me throughout my life.

Crazewire: In Germany, the U.S. is often perceived through headlines about politics, violence, or culture wars. What does everyday life for musicians in Minneapolis actually feel like beyond the news coverage?

Tommy: It’s been extremely challenging. We want to get together, play shows, see our friends, and celebrate. But how do you do that when even basic errands feel dangerous? People get yanked off sidewalks or pulled out of cars simply for not being white. And many concertgoers and musicians – including close friends – fit exactly that description. How can we host events that might put their safety at risk? My non-white friends now carry their passports with them even when leaving the house for short trips. It’s absurd.

Crazewire: Bars, clubs, and small venues are often essential to musicians’ survival – not just in the U.S. What does it really mean when these places struggle or are forced to close?

Tommy: Life is full of horrors. That’s why it’s so important to come together as a community – to blow off steam, dance, yell, talk, and meet new people. When these places shut down, we lose those spaces entirely. At the same time, they make it possible for artists to perform, tour, and earn money. They also employ sound engineers, baristas, bartenders, security staff, and custodians. When venues close, all of those people lose their income as well.

Crazewire: I know this isn’t really the time to focus on personal musical projects. Still, can you give us a brief outlook on your plans with Toilet Rats for 2026?

Tommy: We’ve just released a new song on a benefit compilation. Feel free to pick up a digital copy via the link provided.

ASYLUM BENEFIT / BANDCAMP

We’ve also recorded a lot of new material and are planning to release an album in 2026. But yeah – things are strange right now, so we’re taking everything one step at a time.

Crazewire: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us during these difficult times. Take care of yourself.