By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Tens of thousands of Minnesotans participated in a large demonstration and economic shutdown on Friday, January 23, 2026, protesting the presence of ICE in the state and demanding its removal. The protest, which included strikes, civil disobedience, and business closures, was organized by a coalition of unions, faith groups, and community organizations. The actions were in response to the deployment of federal agents and the impact of ICE operations on local workers and families, including numerous reported abductions and deportations. Key demands included ICE leaving Minnesota, accountability for the agent who killed Renee Good, and an end to federal funding for ICE.
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“We’ll All Go Down to Jail”: January 23 Minnesota Shutdown Begins With Civil Disobedience
Some 100 faith leaders are braving freezing temperatures to block a key road outside of the Minneapolis–St. Paul Airport to protest ICE.
The stark reality of a frigid Minnesota winter didn’t deter a hundred faith leaders from taking a stand. They chose to confront ICE, the agency responsible for immigration enforcement, by engaging in civil disobedience. This wasn’t a casual demonstration; it was a deliberate act, a commitment to risk arrest for a cause they deeply believed in. The freezing temperatures added another layer of hardship to their protest, highlighting the severity of their commitment. They were willing to endure the cold, a physical manifestation of the challenges faced by those they were standing up for.
This bold act resonated with the spirit of Minnesota’s history, evoking images of the state’s courageous past. There’s a deep connection to the values of human dignity and standing up against perceived injustice that the state seems to embody, and this protest felt like a continuation of that legacy. The fact that this was happening in Minnesota, a state known for its progressive values and strong sense of community, only amplified the impact of their actions.
The participants understood the potential consequences: arrest, possible legal battles, and the personal hardships that come with that. They were fully aware they were breaking the law, but for these faith leaders, that act of defiance was a necessary sacrifice. It underscored the gravity of the situation they were protesting and the strength of their convictions. This wasn’t about causing chaos, it was about highlighting injustice.
It’s natural to worry about the safety of those involved, given the extreme weather conditions. The dedication of these leaders, braving the elements to stand for what they believe in is truly inspiring. The fact that the protest occurred in the face of such adversity is a testament to the power of their convictions.
This type of action is a clear example of what it means to be a patriot, standing up for human rights. It’s an act of defiance against a system perceived as unjust. It’s a reminder that democracy thrives when citizens are willing to take action and challenge authority. The message is clear: if the cause is just, the personal risk is worth taking.
The act of civil disobedience, particularly when it involves people of faith, is a powerful form of protest. It’s a way of using one’s body and freedom to make a statement, to draw attention to a cause and to advocate for change. The fact that these leaders were willing to risk everything to make their voices heard is a testament to the importance of the cause. This isn’t just a political act; it’s an act of moral courage.
Some might view this as suppression of free speech, but it’s important to remember that civil disobedience is a deliberate act, a choice to break the law to make a point. And in this case, the point is the fight for constitutional rights. It is also important to remember that protesting is not always a simple thing. It can involve challenges like potential arrests and negative perceptions.
One person asked, “How does getting arrested help anyone?” The answer is that it shines a light on injustice and forces the issue into the public eye. 100s of faith leaders willing to get themselves arrested for what they believe in is not a pointless act. This act of protest challenges the status quo. Protest makes a statement.
There may be those who feel protests are pointless, but the truth is the opposite. Protests have a long history of driving social and political change. Protests are important, and they work. It’s not going to teleport ICE and this administration into hell at the snap of a finger but that’s never been how this has worked.