Story perspectives

Protests Erupt Over ICE Violence and Local Police Cooperation

1/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

On January 24, 2026, over 300 protesters marched in Mesa, Arizona, against federal immigration enforcement.
Ana-María Saiz-Molinar, organizer, condemned violence after the march coincided with the fatal shooting of a man by ICE agents in Minneapolis.
The demonstration aimed to raise awareness of the 287(g) program, which allows local police to assist ICE.
In San Antonio, residents pressed for transparency about police cooperation with ICE, as meetings reflected accountability pressures.

History

Historical Context

The Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 established the 287(g) program, enabling local law enforcement to enforce federal immigration laws under ICE supervision. This program has sparked over 300 protests, particularly in cities like Mesa, Arizona, due to concerns over racial profiling and civil rights violations. Recent incidents, including a fatal shooting by ICE agents in Minneapolis, underscore the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement.

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Story summary

On January 24, 2026, over 300 protesters marched in Mesa, Arizona, against federal immigration enforcement.
Ana-María Saiz-Molinar, organizer, condemned violence after the march coincided with the fatal shooting of a man by ICE agents in Minneapolis.
The demonstration aimed to raise awareness of the 287(g) program, which allows local police to assist ICE.
In San Antonio, residents pressed for transparency about police cooperation with ICE, as meetings reflected accountability pressures.

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