Protests Erupt in Minneapolis Demanding End to ICE Enforcement
Thousands gathered outside the Target Center in downtown Minneapolis on Friday to protest against federal immigration enforcement, following the tragic shooting of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent earlier this month. Activists and community members rallied under the slogan “ICE Out of MN: Day of Truth and Freedom,” signaling heightened tensions surrounding immigration policies in the city.
Why It Matters
The recent protest underscores growing friction over immigration enforcement in a city known for its progressive values. It highlights significant public sentiment against ICE’s presence, especially following a violent incident that has intensified concerns about federal immigration practices. As Minnesota grapples with these tensions, the demonstration reflects broader issues within the national conversation on immigration reform and local governance.
Key Developments
- Protesters marched from The Commons to the Target Center, urging a halt to ICE activities in Minnesota.
- Activists carried signs with messages such as, “Justice for Renee Good” and “Silence is more dangerous than frostbite.”
- Despite frigid temperatures, demonstrators chanted slogans like “Stand up, fight back” and “The people united will never be defeated.”
- Attendees in the arena were seen engaging in lighthearted activities, such as coordinating “the wave,” while a significant portion of the seating remained empty.
- Security measures included a checkpoint with a metal detector at the arena entrance.
- Minneapolis City Council member Elizabeth Shaffer expressed support for the gathering through social media, emphasizing the demand for ICE’s removal from the state.
Full Report
The protest drew significant crowds, with thousands marching from The Commons to the Target Center. Participants expressed their outrage over the shooting of Good by an ICE agent on January 7, which has incited calls for action against what many view as aggressive enforcement tactics. The rally prompted a “no work, no school, and no shopping” campaign across the city.
Chants echoed throughout the streets, with protesters passionately demanding an end to ICE’s operations, while onlookers from nearby skywalks observed the scene. Once inside the Target Center, some demonstrators appeared to take refuge from the harsh weather conditions, with a notable number of seats remaining unoccupied during the indoor segment of the event.
Elizabeth Shaffer, representing Ward 7 on the Minneapolis City Council, publicly commended the turnout, reiterating the demand for ICE to be removed from Minnesota. Her post also included an image showcasing the demonstrators within the arena, contrasting with the sparsely filled seats behind a Jumbotron calling for “ICE OUT OF MINNESOTA.”
Although the protest remained largely peaceful, security measures were implemented to ensure safety at the venue amid the sizeable gathering.
Context & Previous Events
The rally was catalyzed by the fatal incident involving Renee Nicole Good, resulting in intensified criticism against ICE’s operations within Minneapolis. Earlier this month, this tragedy spurred widespread backlash and calls for community mobilization against immigration enforcement in the area.
