Thousands of protesters gathered in Minneapolis on Friday to oppose a major federal immigration operation. At the same time, students across the US staged walkouts to demand the withdrawal of federal agents from Minnesota.
The protests followed the fatal shootings of two US citizens during recent immigration actions. The deaths sparked strong public reaction and renewed debate over enforcement tactics.
Under a national immigration crackdown, President Donald Trump sent 3,000 federal officers to Minneapolis. These officers are wearing tactical gear and patrolling city streets. Their number is five times larger than the local police force.
Protesters accused US Immigration and Customs Enforcement of using excessive force. Several thousand people marched in freezing weather. Families, elderly citizens, and young activists joined the demonstrations.
One protester, Katia Kagan, said her family moved to America for safety. She said she was defending the values her parents believed in. Another protester, Kim, called the operation an attack on civil rights.
Teachers also joined the protests. About 50 school staff members marched near the locations of the shootings. They said schools should remain safe spaces for students.
The movement spread beyond Minnesota. Organisers predicted more than 250 protests in 46 states. Major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago saw walkouts. Protest signs urged people to stop working, studying, and shopping.
President Trump defended the operation. He praised Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and rejected calls for her resignation. He claimed the immigration crisis had been resolved.
Meanwhile, the acting head of the Minneapolis FBI office was removed. Jarrad Smith was reassigned to Washington. His office was involved in both the immigration surge and related investigations.
In another development, former CNN anchor Don Lemon was arrested. He was charged over a protest inside a Minnesota church. Lemon denied the charges and said he would fight them in court.
Reports also revealed new ICE powers. An internal memo suggested agents can now make more arrests without warrants. This has raised concerns about civil liberties.
The immigration issue has also affected politics. Democrats in Congress threatened to block funding for Homeland Security. This could lead to a partial US government shutdown.
Public opinion appears to be shifting. Viral videos of armed agents lowered approval ratings for the policy. A recent poll showed support at its lowest point.
Trump’s border adviser later said operations would become more targeted. However, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz doubted real changes would happen. He called for an end to what he described as a campaign of brutality.
School closures were reported in several states. In Colorado and Arizona, classes were canceled due to expected absences. Student protests were also seen in Chicago, Brooklyn, and California.
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The situation remains tense as protests continue across the US. The debate over immigration enforcement shows no sign of slowing.
