Protesters Rally at D.C. Target Stores, Demand “ICE Out”
Protests against U.S. immigration enforcement intensify, particularly at Target stores across the nation. On a significant Saturday, the coalition 50501 orchestrated a day of action under the rallying cry “ICE Out of Everywhere.” The event aimed to shine a light on the federal government’s immigration policies and their repercussions on vulnerable communities.
Nationwide Protests Against ICE
The anti-ICE demonstrations included calls for boycotts of businesses perceived to collaborate with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). In Washington, D.C., dozens gathered to picket at a Target store, drawn by the retailer’s headquarters in Minneapolis, a city grappling with recent unrest and controversy surrounding federal agents.
- Protests were organized by the coalition 50501.
- The slogan for the day was “ICE Out of Everywhere.”
- Demonstrators called for boycotts against stores cooperating with ICE.
Local Activism in Washington, D.C.
During the protest, participants expressed solidarity with individuals affected by recent violent confrontations with law enforcement in Minneapolis. Activist Slobodan Milic voiced the group’s desire for Target to advocate for an independent inquiry into the deaths of Renee Macklin Good and Alex Pretti.
Milic stated, “We are standing for our brothers and sisters in Minneapolis,” as chants of “boycott target” and “ice out” echoed through the streets. Despite frigid temperatures, protesters remained resolute, advocating for Target to take a public stance against recent immigration enforcement actions.
Responses from Target
In response to the unrest, Target issued a statement defending its position. The company emphasized it has no cooperative agreements with ICE or other immigration enforcement agencies. However, it refrained from commenting on specific requests made by the demonstrators.
Earlier this month, videos surfaced showing federal agents detaining two Target employees in a suburb of Minneapolis, which raised concerns among the community about the connection between the retailer and federal operations.
Ongoing Calls for Justice
The demonstrations are not limited to Washington, D.C. Similar actions have unfolded in Minnesota, where participants have held sit-ins and marches at Target locations. Advocates demand that the company establish a clear policy prohibiting ICE from conducting operations on its premises.
- Recent protests in Minnesota also focused on Target stores.
- Activists are advocating for justice for victims of ICE operations.
- A National Shutdown was called for on Friday, urging individuals to abstain from work and school.
As calls for accountability grow louder, the controversy surrounding immigration enforcement and corporate responsibility continues to shape public discourse. The movement seeks to raise awareness about the implications of ICE actions and foster unity among affected communities.
