Full Breakdown
Minnesota's Economic Blackout: Labor Unions and Community Leaders Protest ICE Operations
1/26/2026, 6:33:32 AM
Core Event: Labor Unions Mobilize Against ICE
In January 2026, Minnesota witnessed a significant labor movement as community leaders and unions organized a statewide economic blackout to protest the operations of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following the killing of Renee Good, an unarmed woman shot by an ICE officer in Minneapolis. The protest, termed the "Day of Truth & Freedom," called for a cessation of work, shopping, and school activities, demanding that ICE leave Minnesota and that the officer involved in Good's death be held accountable.
Background & Context: Rising Tensions Over ICE Operations
The protests were fueled by increasing tensions surrounding ICE's operations in Minnesota, which have reportedly led to 3,000 arrests over six weeks. Labor unions, including the Minnesota AFL-CIO, have expressed that ICE's presence is detrimental to the safety and economic stability of immigrant workers and their communities. The economic impact of immigrant workers in Minnesota is substantial, contributing approximately $41 billion annually to the state's economy.
Key Figures & Groups: Labor Leaders and Activists
Prominent figures in the movement include Bernie Burnham, president of the Minnesota AFL-CIO, who stated, “ICE continues to make everyone less safe,” and Sheletta Brundidge, an activist who criticized major corporations like Target for their silence on ICE's actions. The protests also involved construction workers from Centro de Trabajadores Unidos en La Lucha (CTUL), who highlighted the fear and disruption caused by ICE raids on job sites.
Official Statements & Responses
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) dismissed the protests as “beyond insane,” questioning why labor leaders would oppose ICE's presence, which they claim is necessary for public safety. In contrast, labor leaders argue that ICE's operations create chaos and fear, hindering workers' ability to perform their jobs. The Minneapolis City Council endorsed the economic blackout, emphasizing community solidarity against federal immigration enforcement.
Criticism & Opposition: Corporate Silence and Government Response
Despite the mounting pressure from labor unions and community activists, major corporations like Target, Delta Airlines, and Hilton have faced criticism for their lack of response to the protests. Activists have accused these companies of neglecting their responsibilities to the communities they serve. In response to the protests, Target executives reportedly met with clergy members but did not publicly address the broader concerns raised by the community.
What's Next: Continued Activism and Solidarity Actions
The economic blackout on January 23 was part of a broader movement that included similar actions across the country. Organizers plan to continue advocating for immigrant rights and against ICE's presence in Minnesota. The CTUL's Building Dignity and Respect campaign aims to ensure that developers like D.R. Horton protect workers from ICE raids. The movement is expected to maintain momentum, with calls for further strikes and community actions in the coming weeks.
Verbatim Quotes
- “ICE continues to make everyone less safe, and Minnesota’s Labor Movement repeats and amplifies our call for them to leave our state immediately,” — Bernie Burnham, Minnesota AFL-CIO President
- “There was a protest that marched right in front of his headquarters on Friday. They didn’t even mention it, they are silent, and silence says something. Silence doesn’t mean I don’t know what to say. Silence says I don’t give a damn. I don’t care about the people that shop here. I don’t care about the people who work here. I don’t care about the people in this community. I don’t care. Keep spending your money.” — Sheletta Brundidge, Activist
- “Together we are stronger. The people united will never be defeated.” — Alexander, Construction Worker and CTUL Member
This coordinated effort reflects a growing resistance against federal immigration enforcement, emphasizing the need for community solidarity and corporate accountability in the face of government actions perceived as harmful to local populations.
