Protesters braved subzero temperatures in Minneapolis on January 21, 2026, demanding the immediate departure of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel from the city. The demonstration marks sustained public outcry following a fatal incident two weeks prior, where an ICE agent shot and killed a woman during a vehicle stop.
Residents gathered at key intersections holding signs reading 'Abolish ICE' and 'Justice for Maria,' referencing the 32-year-old victim whose death has become a rallying cry. Organizers emphasized concerns over escalating enforcement tactics, with at least 14 raids reported this month in predominantly immigrant neighborhoods.
While ICE officials have not commented on recent operations, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey acknowledged 'heightened community tensions' during a press briefing earlier this week. CGTN correspondent Liu Xiaoqian documented testimonies from protesters describing increased fear of routine errands and workplace commutes.
The protests coincide with renewed debates in Congress about federal immigration policy reforms, though legislative progress remains stalled. Community leaders have scheduled a town hall meeting for January 28 to discuss legal protection strategies for vulnerable populations.
