Thousands Rally in Minnesota Against ICE Operations
Large crowds braved frigid temperatures in Minneapolis on January 23, 2026, to protest a significant increase in federal immigration enforcement actions. The statewide demonstration, dubbed "ICE Out of Minnesota: A Day of Truth and Freedom," saw hundreds of businesses close their doors, highlighting escalating tensions around immigration policies and community safety.
Why It Matters
This protest comes amid growing fears and reported aggressive tactics by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Minnesota. Organizers aim to voice their opposition to these federal operations, which many residents say have disrupted their communities and instilled fear among immigrant populations. With deepening divides over immigration policy, the stakes are high for both community safety and civil liberties.
Key Developments
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Statewide Protest: Thousands gathered in downtown Minneapolis, chanting slogans and carrying signs advocating for immigrant rights.
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Business Closures: A coordinated economic blackout saw numerous businesses, including restaurants and shops, shut down to support the protest.
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Clergy Arrests: Around 100 clergy members were arrested at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport during a separate demonstration aimed at condemning ICE operations.
- Demands from Organizers: Protest leaders have called for the removal of ICE from Minnesota, a halt to federal funding for the agency, and accountability for officers involved in violent encounters with civilians.
Full Report
Protest Rally
Despite the subzero temperatures, thousands filled the streets of Minneapolis, united against federal immigration enforcement actions. Protesters wrapped in heavy clothing shouted "ICE out," while banners reading "Immigrants make America great" captured the spirit of the moment. Guy Hammink, a St. Paul resident, expressed the need for solidarity, emphasizing the duty to support targeted individuals within the community.
Events at the Airport
Earlier that day, protesters gathered at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, where they sang hymns and prayed in response to the government’s growing detention operations. This protest concluded with the arrest of several clergy members for failing to comply with police orders, though they were released shortly after receiving misdemeanor citations.
Community Resistance
Throughout the state, a network of community members has been forming in response to heightened ICE activity. Neighbors are providing food for those too fearful to leave their homes and have established vigilance outside schools and immigrant-owned businesses to deter raids by federal agents. Community activists have been recording and intervening during suspected ICE actions, further galvanizing support against these operations.
Escalated Tactics by ICE
In recent weeks, residents have reported alarming incidents, including the use of tear gas against demonstrators and aggressive detentions involving families, such as one case where a father and his young son were taken into custody. Reports indicate that federal agents have exhibited a similar pattern of behavior towards U.S. citizens, raising deep concerns about racial profiling.
Context & Previous Events
The protests follow a stark rise in the number of federal immigration officers in Minnesota, now reported to be around 3,000. The tension has been compounded by the recent death of Renee Macklin Good, allegedly at the hands of an ICE officer, provoking further community outrage and calls for justice. The recent actions taken by federal officials, including arrests of protesters, reveal a pattern of increasingly confrontational responses to dissent against immigration enforcement.
