Protesters across Minnesota staged a statewide strike on January 23, 2026, in opposition to the increasing operations of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) within the state. Defying frigid temperatures that dipped below -20 degrees Celsius, participants left their jobs and schools to join the movement titled “ICE Out of Minnesota: Day of Truth and Freedom.” This event included thousands of demonstrators, labor unions, faith leaders, and civic activists advocating for an end to ICE’s activities and calling for an investigation into the death of Renee Nicole Good.
The strike saw over 200 businesses temporarily close their doors, with organizers anticipating that nearly 700 establishments would participate in the “economic blackout.” Emilia González Avalos, a representative from UNIDOS Minnesota, emphasized the significance of the protest despite the extreme cold, stating, “We will walk in below zero degrees in one of the coldest days in Minnesota. We’re asking people to march, boycott today, and get trained as legal observers.”
Protests Across the State
The protests began early in the day, with demonstrators gathering at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, chanting slogans against ICE and carrying signs demanding justice for Good. Activists have made it clear that their concerns extend beyond immigration policy; they argue that ICE’s actions contribute to a climate of fear in immigrant communities.
Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, joined the protests, asserting that ICE’s strategies are not merely about immigration enforcement but rather intimidation tactics aimed at provoking communities. “ICE is using more and more abusive tactics to try to provoke communities to erupt,” Weingarten stated. “We embrace our neighbors, and we fight for our fundamental freedoms.”
Demonstrators also gathered outside an ICE facility at Fort Snelling in St. Paul, where the wind chill added to the already frigid conditions. Protesters voiced their concerns about what they perceive as escalating violence and injustice. One demonstrator made a stark comparison, suggesting that current conditions mirror those of 1930s Germany, while another described ICE agents as “criminal thugs.”
Government Response and Community Impact
The response from government officials has been critical of the protests. A spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security labeled the demonstrations as “beyond insane,” questioning why labor leaders would want to protect what they termed “public safety threats.” This perspective reflects the ongoing tension between federal enforcement agencies and local communities concerned about their safety and rights.
Community leaders and supporters are urging continued action against ICE’s presence in Minnesota. As the strike unfolded, the solidarity demonstrated by participants highlighted the growing frustration and fear surrounding immigration enforcement and its impacts on everyday life.
With the protests expected to culminate in a mile-long march to the Target Center in Minneapolis, where an indoor rally is planned, the movement’s leaders aim to maintain momentum. This event has sparked a broader conversation about immigration policy, public safety, and community rights, reinforcing the need for dialogue and action in the face of governmental policies that many view as oppressive.
The collective action of Minnesotans on this day stands as a powerful testament to their commitment to advocating for justice and accountability within their communities, even in the harshest of conditions.
