Thousands of protesters marched through downtown Minneapolis on Friday before converging at the Target Center to demand the removal of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement from Minnesota. The demonstration took place amid frigid winter temperatures and was one of several coordinated protests across the state.
According to reports, demonstrators gathered near U.S. Bank Stadium before marching through city streets toward the Target Center. Protesters carried signs and chanted slogans opposing federal immigration enforcement, calling on state and local leaders to sever cooperation with ICE operations.
Organizers described the demonstration as part of a broader “economic blackout” intended to draw attention to immigration enforcement policies. Supporters were encouraged to stay home from work, avoid shopping, and participate in rallies throughout the day. Several businesses reportedly closed in solidarity with the protest.
The rally at the Target Center drew a large crowd both inside and outside the venue. Speakers addressed attendees with calls for changes to federal immigration policy and urged Minnesota officials to take steps limiting ICE activity within the state. Social media posts from local officials and advocacy groups praised the turnout and described the demonstration as peaceful.
The protests follow heightened tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in Minnesota, including recent high-profile incidents involving ICE agents that have drawn public scrutiny and criticism from activists and community leaders. Opposition groups argue that enforcement actions have caused fear within immigrant communities and disrupted families.
Earlier in the day, separate demonstrations were reported at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, where clergy members and activists protested airline cooperation with immigration enforcement. Several arrests were made during that demonstration, according to law enforcement officials.
Authorities reported no major injuries or property damage associated with the downtown march and Target Center rally. Law enforcement maintained a presence throughout the event, and organizers emphasized peaceful participation despite the cold weather.
Federal officials have defended ICE operations as lawful and necessary, while protests opposing immigration enforcement are expected to continue in Minnesota in the coming weeks.
Image: AP Photo/Angelina Katsanis
