On January 25, 2024, several hundred community members gathered at Nymore Park in Bemidji to protest against the actions of federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The demonstration aimed to showcase solidarity with individuals affected by increased immigration enforcement in the Twin Cities, as attendees expressed their opposition to ICE’s presence in the state.
Gathering in Frigid Conditions
Despite temperatures plummeting to -7 degrees Celsius, with a wind chill making it feel like -15 degrees, participants formed groups to create large messages visible to a drone overhead. The phrases included “ICE out of MN,” “Bemidji says ‘No’ to ICE,” and “Love people, not ICE.” This artistic demonstration was conceived by a small group of Bemidji residents who have recently mobilized in response to escalating tensions surrounding federal immigration enforcement in Minnesota.
The event was made possible through the collaboration of one organizer, who had connected with a local drone pilot. The drone operator shared, “It’s just really devastating and horrifying to see this kind of thing happening in our communities throughout this state. It’s critical that we demonstrate that this is not acceptable.”
Honoring Lives Lost
As participants stood in formation, they chanted the names of two individuals, Renee Good and Alex Pretti, who were recently killed by federal agents in Minneapolis. The event’s organizer, who requested anonymity for safety reasons, expressed gratitude for the turnout. “This is a huge number of people for a small town. It shows heart, courage, and care to be out here voicing concerns about what’s happening in our state,” he stated.
Protesters held signs with messages like “Be the salt, love melts ICE,” “No one is illegal on stolen land,” and “ICE out now.” One attendee, also wishing to remain unnamed, emphasized the significance of the gathering: “I came out to be a body amongst many, to show that this uptick in fascism in our state is not acceptable.”
Her motivations were deeply personal, as she discussed the emotional conflict of living in a new home while worrying for the safety of friends and family in Minneapolis. “Even though they are physically safe, there’s so much mental devastation happening to people,” she noted. “This situation is creating trauma for a whole new generation of not just Minnesotans, but Americans as a whole.”
A Call for Action
The organizers were encouraged by the significant turnout for the hour-long demonstration, which spread primarily through word-of-mouth. One organizer stated, “Our civil rights and our human rights are being violated regularly, and everyone deserves these rights, regardless of our status, color, age, or race.” The turnout on such a cold day highlighted the community’s strong commitment to advocating for change.
The event underscored a growing sentiment among residents regarding the impact of federal immigration policies on local communities. As the protest concluded, it became clear that the participants were united in their call for justice and recognition of the humanity of all individuals, regardless of their immigration status.
