Businesses in Minneapolis are planning to close Friday to protest ICE

January 23, 2026 - 01:35

A coalition of Minneapolis businesses is preparing to close their doors this Friday in a coordinated protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and recent immigration enforcement actions. The planned walkout underscores the growing involvement of the local commercial sector in the national immigration debate.

Organizers state the closures are a direct response to what they describe as escalating and disruptive ICE operations within communities. The action aims to demonstrate economic solidarity and highlight the integral role immigrant populations play in the city's workforce and cultural fabric. Employees of participating businesses are encouraged to join community rallies and educational events throughout the day.

The protest occurs amid a period of robust mobilization across Minnesota concerning federal immigration policy. Advocates hope the visible economic impact of shuttered stores and restaurants will draw further attention to their calls for reform and more stringent oversight of enforcement practices. This business-led action represents a significant, non-traditional form of civic protest, leveraging economic presence as a tool for political expression. The full scale of participation will be seen Friday as the city gauges the protest's impact on its normal commercial activity.