Despite the freezing cold temperatures in Minnesota, thousands of protesters have flooded the streets in Minneapolis to protest the presence of ICE and the ensuing violence spurred on by the immigration crackdown happening in the city. And now, due to increased attention and support nationwide, the protests are now going to expand beyond Minnesota and across the country at the end of January, in back-to-back days of action (as well as intentional inaction). Here’s what to know about the ICE Out protests happening on Jan. 30 and Jan. 31.
First up, on Jan. 30, there is a call for a national shutdown, meaning that participants in the protest are being asked to not go to work, go to school, or shop in order to protest ICE, its presence across the country, and the killings that have happened in Minnesota and beyond.
Then, on Jan. 31, protests will be happening across the country to demand that ICE leave cities permanently. These protests will be organized by 50501, which stands for “50 States, 50 Protests, 1 Day.” This organization has helped to organize other large national protests before, including the “No Kings” protests held in 2025.
If you’re curious about joining these protests, or just want to know more about what’s going to be happening in your country this weekend, here’s more info.
When & Where Will The Jan. 30 & 31 Protests Be?
The goal for the upcoming ICE Out activity is to have protests everywhere, all across the country, in as many places as possible. For the Jan. 30 shutdown, supporters are encouraged to participate in the national shutdown no matter where they are in the country, and are encouraged to boycott work, school, and shopping for the day. Then, on Jan. 31 when the actual in-person gatherings will be taking place, you are able to find a protest near you on the 50501 website. Or, if there isn’t yet one near you, you can even sign up to organize one in your area.
What Can You Do if You Can’t March?
If you can’t physically participate — or if you feel unsafe doing so — there are still ways to take part, if you so choose. On Jan. 30, you can decide to not go to work, school, or to not buy anything (you could do any combination or all of these things) in order to support an ICE shutdown. There are also many other things you can do in order to support the cause. You can sign petitions, donate to charities or businesses that are supporting protesters and immigrant support organizations, or call or email your representatives to let them know that this is an important issue to you.