A coalition of labor, community, and faith organizations in Minnesota is organizing a statewide shutdown on January 23, 2026. This response comes in light of increased raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in local neighborhoods. The movement is fueled by the recent fatal shooting of Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother, by an ICE officer, which has heightened tensions and fears among residents.
Minnesota’s Statewide Shutdown: Key Details
The coalition, dubbed “ICE Out of Minnesota,” demands the complete removal of ICE from their communities and workplaces. The situation escalated as over 3,000 heavily armed federal agents reportedly occupied the Twin Cities, creating a climate of fear among the local populace.
- Date of Shutdown: January 23, 2026
- Main Demand: Total withdrawal of ICE from neighborhoods and workplaces
- Fatal Incident: Renee Good, shot by an ICE officer
- Protests: Continued demonstrations against corporations supporting ICE
Coalition and Events Leading Up to Shutdown
The push for the shutdown includes a major “Truth and Freedom” march, capitalizing on a successful demonstration held on January 10, which attracted around 10,000 participants. Organized by the Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee (MIRAC), the recent protests targeted companies like Target and Home Depot. The grassroots efforts span various organizations, including labor unions, faith groups, and social justice organizations.
Notable endorsements come from several unions, including the United Auto Workers (UAW) and SEIU. These groups emphasize workers’ rights and collective action as essential to addressing ICE’s impact on communities.
Community and Labor Support
A diverse coalition of clergy and community leaders is set to join the demonstration. The clergy highlighted ongoing human rights violations driven by ICE, underscoring the need for solidarity among working families and immigrants.
Key figures in labor unions have spoken out against ICE actions, framing them as reminiscent of historical oppression. The Minneapolis Federation of Educators and other unions have pledged their support for the shutdown, emphasizing the importance of safety for both workers and community members.
- Participating Organizations:
- United Auto Workers
- SEIU Local 26
- Black Lives Matter
- American Federation of Teachers
- Democratic Socialists of America
- Expectations: A significant turnout reflecting community grievances against federal actions.
The January 23 shutdown represents a pivotal moment for solidarity and resistance in Minnesota. It showcases the power of unified action in the face of federal repression. As the coalition prepares for the event, the attention of the nation will focus on how Minnesota stands up for immigrant rights and community safety.
