Clergy Nationwide Unite Against ICE in Coordinated Effort
Recent events in Minneapolis highlight a significant movement among religious leaders uniting against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). On January 22, 2026, over 600 clergy from various faith traditions gathered at Westminster Presbyterian Church. This historical moment marked the start of a two-day assembly aimed at opposing President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement policies.
Key Gathering to Oppose ICE
The event was organized by Multifaith Antiracism, Change and Healing (MARCH), which mobilized clergy from different backgrounds including Christians, Buddhists, Jews, Muslims, and Indigenous communities. Participants arrived on short notice to collaborate on strategies against mass deportation efforts.
Unity for Justice
- More than 600 attendees represented various religious traditions.
- The gathering served as an activist training and spiritual revival.
- Many clergy members wore slogans like “Abolish ICE” on their attire.
At the opening session, Rev. Rebecca Voelkel expressed deep gratitude for the diverse gathering. She emphasized the spiritual and ethical imperatives of justice and kindness, urging faith leaders to resist ICE. She stated, “In the face of all the pain… you are a beautiful sight.”
Learning and Sharing Strategies
Participants came from across the United States, including states such as Massachusetts, California, and Alaska. The event was characterized by shared experiences and lessons learned from those already facing significant ICE activities. Rev. Elizabeth Haralam Shuba highlighted the need for training to prepare her community in Pennsylvania for potential immigration enforcement.
Activism in Action
Throughout the gathering, various workshops focused on direct action strategies, such as observing ICE agents and maintaining emotional resilience amid protests. The atmosphere was charged with determination as participants pledged to act against injustices linked to federal enforcement measures.
Protests and Demonstrations
The second day featured a rally at the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, where clergy protested the presence of ICE at the airport. Despite severe weather conditions, hundreds participated, leading to approximately 100 arrests as they voiced their opposition to the tactics employed by ICE.
Clergy Committed to Action
- Many clergy engaged in direct actions, including acts of civil disobedience.
- Prominent faith leaders addressed crowds and expressed solidarity with affected communities.
The powerful chants and prayers from the assembly reinforced a commitment to justice and solidarity. As Rev. Karen Larson articulated, clergy are called to stand against systems that separate families and harm communities. The unified stance against ICE signifies a growing coalition of faith leaders ready to enact change on a national scale.
Conclusion
The Minneapolis gathering is a testament to the mobilization of faith communities in response to systemic issues surrounding immigration enforcement. As ICE intensifies its operations, the message is clear: faith leaders across the nation will continue to unite and resist injustice.
