Nationwide protests have spread across the United States after two fatal shootings of U.S. citizens by federal immigration enforcement agents in Minneapolis, prompting a coordinated day of action under the slogan “no work, no school, no shopping.” Demonstrators in multiple major cities rallied to denounce Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) practices and broader immigration policies.
The demonstrations gathered momentum following the deaths of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse shot by federal agents during an immigration operation in Minneapolis, and Renee Good, who was killed earlier in January by an ICE agent during another enforcement action. Community members and civil rights advocates have expressed deep anger over the incidents, which they say raise serious questions about the use of lethal force by federal agents.
On January 30, protests took place in Minneapolis, where hundreds marched near federal buildings and downtown streets, calling for an end to aggressive immigration enforcement. Teachers, students, families and workers participated, many carrying signs demanding the withdrawal of ICE from local communities and accountability for the deaths of Good and Pretti.
The action quickly expanded beyond Minnesota. In Los Angeles, thousands gathered near city centres and federal facilities, with reports of clashes involving law enforcement at some locations. Similar demonstrations were reported in New York, Chicago, Washington and other cities across the country. Many protesters also echoed the national strike theme, urging people to refrain from work, school and shopping in solidarity with affected communities.
Student engagement was a notable feature of the protests. In several states, including Michigan and Georgia, students walked out of schools, while business closures were reported as owners and employees showed support for the movement against federal immigration actions.
The unfolding events come amid heightened scrutiny of immigration enforcement tactics used by federal agencies. In response to public pressure, the U.S. Justice Department has opened a civil rights investigation into the shooting of Alex Pretti, although separate federal review into the earlier killing of Renee Good was not initially pursued. Federal and local authorities have offered differing accounts of the incidents, further fueling public debate.
Activists and community organisers argue that the protests reflect deep dissatisfaction with current federal immigration policy and enforcement practices, calling for broader reforms and increased accountability. Some local councils, including in cities such as Boston, have formally condemned the federal agents’ actions and called for transparent investigations and policy changes.
Although many demonstrations have remained peaceful, moments of tension have occurred between protesters and law enforcement, underlining the intensity of public sentiment. Organisers have framed the protests as a nationwide movement seeking to highlight the human and civil rights implications of immigration enforcement operations.
As the protests continue, national attention remains focused on federal immigration policy, the conduct of enforcement agencies and the government’s response to demands for reform and accountability.
