Nationwide Protests Follow ICE Shooting of Activist
Jan, 12 2026
The protests, organized by groups including United We Dream, have highlighted concerns regarding the violent tactics employed by ICE, which demonstrators argue disproportionately target individuals based on their Latino appearance, including U.S. citizens. In response to Good's shooting, ICE has reportedly increased its presence in Minneapolis, deploying an additional 1,000 agents and intensifying raids, particularly in areas with Democratic leadership. This escalation has raised fears among local communities, especially among Somali residents, who have expressed solidarity during the protests.
The narrative surrounding Good's death has been contested, with video evidence suggesting that she was attempting to leave the scene when ICE agents acted aggressively. The Trump administration characterized her as a "domestic terrorist," a claim that has been met with widespread criticism from civil rights advocates, including attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong, who has called for accountability and questioned the government's portrayal of the incident.
Political responses have varied, with some lawmakers condemning the actions of ICE and calling for a reevaluation of immigration enforcement policies. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz referenced George Orwell's "1984" to illustrate the disconnect between the government's narrative and public perception, while Illinois State Senator Laura Fine has proposed legislation to limit ICE's authority in state and local law enforcement.
In a related development, three Democratic members of Congress from Minnesota were denied access to an ICE facility shortly after Good's death, raising concerns about oversight and transparency in immigration enforcement. This denial followed the reinstatement of a policy requiring a seven-day notice for congressional visits to ICE facilities, which has been challenged in court.
The protests reflect a broader sentiment of frustration with governmental narratives and the treatment of marginalized communities by law enforcement agencies. Activists are calling for systemic change in how immigration issues are addressed in the United States, emphasizing the need for policies that prioritize human rights and dignity over militarized enforcement tactics.