Minnesota has become a focal point for protests against the US government's intensified immigration enforcement, particularly following the deployment of thousands of immigration agents under President Trump's administration.The protests culminated in significant civil unrest on January 23, 2026, with clergy members being arrested and many local businesses closing their doors in solidarity with demonstrators across the state.
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thestar.com.myThe protests were organized as part of an "ICE OUT!" day of action, which aimed to highlight the impact of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations on local communities.This demonstration was particularly fueled by the recent killing of Renee Good, a US citizen who was shot by an ICE agent while monitoring their activities.
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thestar.com.mytheguardian.comThroughout the day, clergy members gathered at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, where they sang hymns and prayed while kneeling on the roadway.Local police arrested approximately 100 clergy members who did not resist arrest, highlighting the escalating tensions between law enforcement and protesters.This action was part of a broader movement that included thousands of participants marching through Minneapolis, as well as coordinated demonstrations nationwide.
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thestar.com.mytheguardian.comConcerns over the Trump administration's immigration crackdown have grown, particularly with the deployment of around 3,000 federal agents to Minnesota, marking one of the largest enforcement operations in history.In recent weeks, over 2,400 arrests have been made, and the operation has been characterized by what many advocates describe as an unprecedented level of violence against immigrant communities.
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theguardian.comen.wikipedia.orgLabor unions, community leaders, and faith groups have called for an economic blackout, urging Minnesotans not to work, shop, or attend school in protest.Organizers claim that this strategy aims to demonstrate collective power against what they see as an attack on working-class people and immigrant communities.
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amherstindy.orgtheguardian.comMinneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has voiced concerns about the overwhelming presence of ICE agents, stating that local police are outnumbered and outgunned.He has described the situation as akin to an invasion, urging for a more humane approach to immigration enforcement that respects the rights and dignity of all individuals.
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thestar.com.mytheguardian.comThe economic impact of the protests was palpable, with numerous businesses shuttering their doors for the day.Business owners like Miguel Hernandez, who closed his bakery to join the protests, emphasized the importance of solidarity with the community.He stated that the demonstrations were a message to politicians that more action is needed to address the suffering caused by federal immigration policies.
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thestar.com.myAs protests unfolded, tensions soared between ICE agents and demonstrators.Reports indicate that agents have employed aggressive tactics, including using tear gas and flash-bang grenades against protesters, resulting in heightened fears within the community.Eyewitness accounts have described chaotic scenes where agents clashed with protesters, leading to arrests and confrontations that have garnered national attention.
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theguardian.comen.wikipedia.orgThe Trump administration has defended its actions, claiming that the enforcement surge is necessary to combat a perceived rise in crime associated with undocumented immigrants.Critics, however, argue that the administration's rhetoric dehumanizes immigrants and fosters an environment of fear and hostility.
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theguardian.comen.wikipedia.orgIn addition to the protests, the economic blackout represents a significant strategy in labor activism, with unions like the Communications Workers of America and others rallying behind the cause.Union leaders have stated that the silence of major corporations based in Minnesota, such as Target and Best Buy, in the face of these events is troubling, urging these companies to take a stand against ICE activities that disrupt the lives of their employees and customers.
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amherstindy.orgtheguardian.comThe events in Minnesota are part of a larger national conversation regarding immigration policy and the treatment of immigrant communities.As protests continue, advocates are calling for accountability and a reevaluation of how immigration enforcement is conducted in the US.
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thestar.com.myThe ongoing protests in Minnesota signify a vital moment for advocacy in the face of federal immigration policies, underscoring the need for solidarity and a collective response to systemic injustices.
