ICE: Minneapolis Residents Demand Federal Withdrawal

Published: 26 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

After weeks of federal raids, Minneapolis residents are demanding that ICE leave. Local council member Aisha Chughtai said that the community cannot recover until ICE is removed from the state. She described the trauma caused by recent federal operations targeting immigrants and condemned the violence that has shaken the city’s neighborhoods. Chughtai highlighted that two Minneapolis residents were killed by federal agents this year, underscoring the urgent need for accountability and immediate action. The focus on ICE has united locals to support neighbors and resist ongoing federal interventions.

On Saturday, Chughtai responded to reports that 37-year-old nurse Alex Pretti had been shot. She rushed to the scene, witnessing federal agents deploying chemicals and forcibly detaining residents. The southside neighborhood, densely packed with apartments and businesses, faced widespread teargas exposure. Residents described chaos and fear as agents tackled people in public spaces. Chughtai emphasized that daily federal patrols have intensified anxiety, especially among immigrant families worried for their safety. She said the trauma is extensive and that the community’s recovery hinges on ICE’s departure.

Chughtai explained that Minneapolis has already experienced multiple homicides connected to federal interventions. She stressed that federal operations disproportionately impact immigrant communities, who feel unsafe in their homes. “There’s so much fear, grief, and despair in our neighborhoods,” she said. Residents cannot predict if leaving their homes might result in a family separation or worse. Despite this, Chughtai emphasized that Minneapolis’ collective spirit remains resilient. “Our spirit can’t be broken,” she said, encouraging locals to continue participating in neighborhood defense and rapid response networks.

The council member called for justice for Pretti and Renee Good, advocating for local authorities to hold federal agents accountable. She also urged Governor Tim Walz to declare a state of emergency and implement an eviction moratorium. With nearly 80% of her district being renters, Chughtai emphasized that protecting homes and families is essential. She encouraged community members to remain organized, engage in legal observer training, and amplify local realities beyond Minnesota. Donations to local support networks, she noted, are critical to sustaining ongoing relief efforts.

Chughtai also highlighted that resisting ICE requires consistent public engagement. Residents are urged to maintain presence in streets and neighborhoods, signaling their determination to reclaim safety and security. “The only thing within our control is to continue showing up and demanding ICE leave,” she said. Local and state officials share this priority, aiming to restore normalcy and reduce the fear permeating the community.

Even with potential ICE withdrawal, the city faces long-term recovery challenges. Residents, including children, have witnessed deaths, violence, and family separations, leaving lasting psychological impacts. Chughtai explained that rebuilding trust, community cohesion, and mental health support can only begin after federal forces withdraw. Until then, Minneapolis continues to organize, educate, and resist, prioritizing local solidarity and mutual protection. The council member expressed hope that sustained local efforts will compel the federal government to respect community safety and ultimately restore peace to the city.

Chughtai concluded that Minneapolis will persevere despite federal pressures. She encouraged continued vigilance, community support, and national awareness of local realities. The ongoing presence of ICE disrupts not only daily life but also the city’s potential for recovery and justice. “We cannot rebuild or recover until ICE leaves our state,” she affirmed, underscoring the critical intersection of safety, civic engagement, and immigrant rights. Minneapolis residents remain united in their resolve, determined to maintain security and community solidarity amid ongoing federal interventions.

Check our latest news