Hundreds Rally Against ICE in Downtown Brainerd

On January 24, 2026, approximately 300 people gathered in downtown Brainerd to protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities. The rally, organized by Brainerd Lakes Area Indivisible, took place on Laurel Street outside the Crow Wing County Jail and the Crow Wing County Judicial Center.

Purpose of the Protest

The protest aimed to address several issues related to ICE operations in Minnesota. Participants highlighted the recent killings of immigrants Renee Good and Alex Pretti by ICE agents in the Twin Cities. Additionally, they raised concerns over the housing of ICE detainees in Crow Wing County Jail, which, as of January 22, 2026, held 44 federal detainees for the Department of Homeland Security.

Statements from Organizers

Brainerd Lakes Area Indivisible emphasized that the vigil was not merely an act of standing in cold weather. It was a stand for human dignity and the rights of immigrant families facing harm due to current policies. They called attention to the negative impact of recent agreements between local sheriff departments and ICE.

287(g) Agreements Overview

• Last year, six sheriff departments signed enforcement agreements with ICE.
• The Crow Wing County Sheriff’s Office entered into two agreements on March 25 and March 27, 2025.
• These agreements were made without the approval of the Crow Wing County Board, which raised transparency concerns.

Response from Local Officials

During a recent Cass County Board meeting, local officials indicated that Cass County Sheriff Bryan Welk had no plans to enforce the 287(g) agreement, leading to its nullification. In a statement, Brainerd Lakes Area Indivisible requested that Crow Wing County Sheriff Eric Klang terminate the 287(g) agreement and enhance oversight and accountability related to immigration enforcement.

Legal Opinions on ICE Agreements

On December 12, 2025, the Minnesota Attorney General issued a legal opinion indicating that sheriffs do not have the authority to unilaterally enter into 287(g) agreements. The opinion clarified that such agreements must have the sanction of county boards. It also stated that individuals cannot be detained solely on civil ICE detainer requests unless state law allows for such actions.

Community Engagement and Training

In addition to protesting, Brainerd Lakes Area Indivisible is offering de-escalation training on January 29, 2026. More information and registration details can be found on Filmogaz.com.

Through this protest, community members aimed to foster awareness and advocate for policy changes affecting immigrants. This illustrates the ongoing dialogue around ICE activities and local law enforcement’s role in immigration enforcement across the state.