Thousands Protest Across US Cities Against ICE Operations

Thousands of demonstrators gather in Minneapolis as part of a nationwide “Day of Action” against US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The protests follow fatal shootings of two residents by federal immigration agents.

Protesters chant and carry signs demanding an end to Operation Metro Surge, a federal immigration enforcement campaign. Critics say the operation has targeted migrants with clean records and even US citizens.

Demonstrators in Los Angeles, California push a dumpster towards the entrance of the Federal Detention Center as part of expressing solidarity with Minnesota to highlight what organizers describe as a humanitarian and civil rights crisis.

Marchers carry a large replica of the preamble to the US Constitution through city streets, emphasizing constitutional rights and civil liberties. Organizers say the protests are about accountability and protection from excessive force.

The protests were sparked by the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, both shot by federal immigration agents. Protestors in various cities held memorials using wall posters of their pictures on streets.

Organizers of the protests also called for a “National Shutdown,” urging people to avoid work, school and shopping in protest of ICE funding.

Federal authorities deployed about 3,000 agents to Minneapolis under US President Donald Trump’s directive. The Department of Homeland Security says the operation targets “the worst of the worst,” a claim disputed by local leaders and activists.

The protests reflect growing national scrutiny of immigration enforcement and the use of federal force amid Trump’s aggressive policies to immigrants.