Home » protests
Tag:

protests

News

Austin Students Walk Out to Protest ICE, Prompting State Investigation

by
written by

“`html

Students from Austin Autonomous School District walked out of classes Friday to protest against proposed legislative bills they beleive would restrict inclusive education and limit LGBTQ+ rights.

Texas Governor Orders Inquiry Into Austin School Walkouts

Table of Contents

Austin, Texas – Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Attorney General ken Paxton have directed the Texas Education Agency (Tea) to investigate walkouts that occurred at several Austin independent School District (AISD) campuses on Friday. The protests were organized by Students for Inclusive Education, voicing opposition to proposed legislation impacting education policies.

Political Motivations Questioned

The Governor’s move has drawn criticism from some parents who believe it is politically motivated. Melanie Oltman,a parent of a Lively middle school student,expressed her concern that Abbott consistently targets Austin due to its progressive political leanings. She suggests the investigation is not about student safety, but about exerting political pressure on the city.

Parental Relief, Safety Concerns Raised

however, other parents, such as Wes Ahearn, expressed relief that AISD staff were present during the student walkout at Lively Middle School. Ahearn emphasized the importance of adult supervision, as many participants were minors traveling to the State Capitol. He also questioned the potential cost of the investigation compared to the resources used to support the students’ safety during the protest.

Statewide Protests and TEA Response

The protests were not isolated to Austin. Students in other Texas school districts, including San Antonio ISD and New Braunfels ISD, also participated in similar walkouts. New Braunfels ISD had staff monitoring student actions to ensure their safety. The TEA confirmed receiving complaints regarding the walkouts in multiple districts, but Abbott and Paxton have publicly focused their attention solely on AISD.

AISD’s Response and Policy

AISD Superintendent Matias Segura released a statement acknowledging the district cannot prevent students from leaving campus to participate in protests. He clarified that such absences are considered unexcused. Segura explained that teachers and staff accompanied students to prioritize their safety, but acknowledged the limitations of ensuring safety at events not sanctioned by the school.

what prompted the state examination into the Austin student walkouts protesting ICE?

Austin Students Walk Out to Protest ICE,Prompting state Investigation

On February 3,2026,students across several Austin Independent School District (AISD) campuses staged coordinated walkouts to protest Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policies and actions. The demonstrations, largely organized through social media, quickly drew attention, not only from local media but also from the Texas state government, triggering a formal investigation.

The Spark: Student Concerns & Organizing

The protests weren’t spontaneous. Months of growing student activism, fueled by national debates surrounding immigration reform and increased ICE activity in Texas, culminated in the walkouts. Students voiced concerns over:

* Family Separation: Reports of families being separated at the border resonated deeply with many Austin students, especially those with personal connections to immigrant communities.

* Deportation fears: Increased ICE presence in the city led to anxieties within families about potential deportations, impacting student well-being and academic performance.

* Detention Center Conditions: Allegations of substandard conditions in ICE detention facilities, including reports of inadequate medical care and overcrowding, were a central focus of student demands.

* DACA Uncertainty: Ongoing legal challenges to the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program created uncertainty for many students and their families.

Organizers utilized platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and encrypted messaging apps to coordinate the walkouts, emphasizing a commitment to non-violent protest. The messaging focused on solidarity with immigrant communities and a demand for more humane immigration policies.

The Walkouts: Scale and Response

The walkouts began around 10:00 AM CST, with students leaving classrooms and gathering at designated locations near their schools. Estimates suggest participation from over a dozen high schools and middle schools across the district.

* Notable Locations: Major gathering points included the steps of Austin City Hall, the Travis County Courthouse, and several prominent parks.

* Protest Activities: Students carried signs with slogans like “No ICE,” “Families Belong Together,” and “Education Not Deportation.” Chants and speeches focused on advocating for immigrant rights and criticizing ICE’s enforcement tactics.

* AISD Response: The school district initially responded by emphasizing the importance of students remaining in class and the potential disciplinary consequences of unexcused absences. However, AISD officials also acknowledged students’ right to peaceful protest and stated they would work to ensure student safety.

* Police Presence: Austin Police Department (APD) officers were present at many of the protest locations, primarily to maintain order and ensure traffic flow. Reports indicated a largely hands-off approach, with officers observing the demonstrations without intervening.

State Investigation Launched

Within hours of the walkouts, Texas Attorney general Ken Paxton announced a formal investigation into the coordinated protests. The investigation centers on potential violations of Texas Education Code, specifically regarding disruptions to the educational environment and potential incitement of unlawful activity.

* Focus of the Investigation: The Attorney General’s office stated it would be examining the role of outside organizations in organizing the walkouts and whether school officials adequately addressed the disruptions.

* Legal Concerns: Legal experts suggest the investigation could raise First Amendment concerns regarding students’ rights to free speech and assembly. The outcome of the investigation remains uncertain.

* AISD cooperation: AISD officials have stated they will fully cooperate with the Attorney General’s investigation, while also defending the rights of students to express their views peacefully.

Impact on the Austin Community

The student walkouts sparked a broader conversation about immigration policy and its impact on the Austin community.

* Community Support: local immigrant rights organizations and community leaders expressed support for the students, praising their courage and commitment to social justice.

* Political Fallout: The protests and subsequent state investigation have become a focal point in the ongoing debate over immigration in Texas, with differing viewpoints expressed by state lawmakers and community stakeholders.

* Increased Activism: The walkouts appear to have energized student activism, with organizers planning further events and campaigns to advocate for immigrant rights.

Understanding Texas Education Code & Student Protests

Texas Education Code outlines the rights and responsibilities of students within the public school system. While students have the right to express their opinions, these rights are not unlimited. Specifically:

* Disruptive Conduct: The code prohibits conduct that materially disrupts the educational environment. The Attorney General’s investigation will likely focus on whether the walkouts met this threshold.

* School Authority: School administrators have the authority to maintain order and discipline on campus. This includes the ability to impose consequences for unexcused absences and disruptive behavior.

* First Amendment Rights: Students retain their First Amendment rights to free speech and assembly while at school, but these rights can be limited if they substantially interfere with school operations. The legal challenge will be balancing these competing interests.

Resources for Students and Families

For students and families impacted by immigration concerns, several resources are available:

* American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Texas: Provides legal assistance and advocacy for immigrant rights. (https://www.aclu-tx.org/)

* RAICES (Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and legal Services): Offers legal services and support to immigrants and refugees. (https://www.raicestexas.org/)

* Austin ISD Immigrant and Refugee Support: Provides resources and support services

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Entertainment

Protests Held in Cities Across the U.S. in Anti-ICE Strike

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

Protests against the Trump Administration’s immigration crackdown were held in cities across the U.S. on Friday in a mass demonstration of public outrage following the killings of two people by federal agents amid the aggressive enforcement operation in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Dozens of businesses closed their doors and tens of thousands of demonstrators were expected to take to the streets from Los Angeles to New York after organizers called for a “national shutdown” day of no school, work, or shopping. Minnesotans held a similar state-wide general strike last week to demand an end to what Minneapolis leaders have described as an “invasion” of federal immigration enforcement officers in the Administration’s “Operation Metro Surge” campaign.

“The people of the Twin Cities have shown the way for the whole country – to stop ICE’s reign of terror, we need to SHUT IT DOWN,” the organizers of Friday’s national day of protests wrote.

The strike was endorsed by nearly 30 organizations across the country, from labor unions to immigrant advocacy groups to student organizations.

Protests are scheduled to persist into the weekend in Minneapolis, which has become the heart of the anti-ICE movement since the fatal shootings of residents Renee Good and Alex Pretti, as well as in other cities around the country.

Here’s what to know about Friday’s general strike and the weekend protests to come.

Demonstrators against the ongoing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deployment outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Jan. 30, 2026. Bridget Bennett—Bloomberg/Getty Images

Minneapolis

Table of Contents

Hundreds of demonstrators gathered Friday morning in the bitter cold outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis, where they chanted, brandished signs, and at times shouted or jeered at federal agents. The building, which houses an immigration court and the local Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) headquarters, as well as other federal offices, has become the site of frequent protests in recent weeks as backlash against the Trump Administration’s operations in the city have mounted.

Protestors chanted “We are Minnesota, We Protect Our Neighbors” and demanded that federal prosecutions against “community observers” be dropped against, ICE OUT of MNthe coalition that organized last week’s economic blackout protests, detailed in a release that included quotes from community members who spoke at Friday’s demonstration.

“I have stood on street corners with my whistle outside of my son’s school, at bus stops. I have organized people to get kids rides to school. I have delivered food to my neighbors. Hearing that the federal government would like to punish Minnesotans for loving our neighbors, I am outraged,” said Jen Arnold, the parent of a second grader in Minneapolis Public Schools, per the organization. “But we will not stop loving our neighbors. And if you want to punish some Minnesotans, punish all of us.”

Dylan Alverson, the owner of Modern Times Cafe in Minneapolis, said, “I am here to represent independent businesses in the city, the state, and across the country. No matter what you believe in right now, as business owners, we can all agree that ICE is bad for business.”

Protesters had largely dispersed from the spot by the afternoon, while in downtown Minneapolis marching demonstrators filled streets and musicians Tom Morello and Bruce Springsteen, who this week released a protest song dedicated to the city, performed at a solidarity concert for Good and Pretti. All proceeds from the event will be given to Good and Pretti’s families.

"National Shutdown" Protests Held Across The Country Over Trump Administration's Aggressive ICE Enforcement Activity
Protestors march in Minneapolis, Minnesota, as part of a “Nationwide Shutdown” demonstration against ICE enforcement on January 30, 2026. Stephen Maturen—Getty Images

Trump told reporters on Thursday that the Administration would not be pulling back its immigration enforcement efforts in Minnesota “at all,” despite comments that White House border czar Tom Homan made the same day indicating that a “draw-down” of federal agents was planned.

“President Trump wants this fixed, and I’m going to fix it, with your help,” Homan, who took over federal immigration operations in Minneapolis this week, said at a press conference in Minneapolis on Thursday, stating that the enforcement campaign in the area would continue but that he was working to make it “safer, more efficient, by the book.”

The Justice Department has meanwhile opened a civil rights probe into the shooting of Pretti, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche announced Friday.

“We’re looking at everything that would shed light on what happened that day and in the days and weeks leading up to what happened,” Blanche said at a press conference regarding the Department of Justice’s latest release of files related to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Blanche did not provide details on the extent of the probe into Pretti’s killing, but said that the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) was carrying out a “standard investigation.

The Trump Administration has defended Pretti and Good’s shootings as acts of “self defense,” despite video of both incidents that contradicts federal officials’ accounts.

A number of protesters have been arrested in Minneapolis in recent days, including dozens of clergy members who demonstrated outside Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport last Friday to call for a halt to deportation flights and several people who participated in protests at a church in the city earlier this month, including former CNN anchor Don Lemon.

Demonstrations in Minneapolis will continue into the weekend, when a rally and a march are scheduled at Bryant Park Square at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday.

"National Shutdown" Protests Held Across The Country Over Trump Administration's Aggressive ICE Enforcement Activity
Hundreds of people, including students, attend a rally in Lower Manhattan as part of a ‘National Shutdown” event against ICE in New York City January 30, 2026. Spencer Platt—Getty Images

… and across the U.S.

Similar demonstrations are taking place all around the country on Friday.

In New York City, protestors gathered in Union Square on Friday afternoon, holding cardboard signs in winter clothing cheering and singing chants against ICE. Hundreds of people turned out in Foley Square in lower Manhattan, which lies across from the local ICE headquarters and was the site for a planned rally on Friday.

The city’s Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who has vocally backed abolishing ICE, showed support for the protests in a post on X.

“Today’s general strike is a direct challenge to ICE’s brutality,” Mamdani wrote. “We reject a system that terrorizes and dares to call it enforcement. Your courage is inspiring the world. The power is with the people.Solidarity with everyone striking.”

Dozens of local businesses announced their plans to shut down Friday in solidarity with the demonstrations in New York City and other cities around the country, from Seattle to Denver to Austin to Washington, D.C.

Protesters descended on City Hall in downtown Los Angeles as part of a nationwide day of action to stop funding for ICE
Teacher Andre Lopez, left, from Duarte Elementary School, joins activists and protesters taking part in an, “ICE Out of Everywhere,” protest in front of City Hall in downtown Los Angeles on January 30, 2026. Genaro Molina—Los Angeles Times/Getty Images

Crowds of people also came out to participate in the day of demonstrations in Los Angeles, the site of an immigration crackdown last summer that sparked widespread protests in the city and beyond. Demonstrators outside city hall waved signs that bore slogans such as “melt ICE” and “full rights for all immigrants” and calling for justice for Keith Porter Jr., a 43-year-old father of two who was killed by an off-duty ICE officer on New Year’s Eve in Los Angeles. Several museums and cultural hubs in the city also shut down in a show of support, while Variety reported that production for “Grey’s Anatomy” temporarily halted after several crew members said they wouldn’t show up for work. Earlier in the week, more than 1,000 University of California Los Angeles students had already staged a walkout on Wednesday afternoon against ICE.

Other protests took place on Friday in Seattle, Denver, Austin, and Charlotte, among other localities around the U.S. Among the demonstrators were thousands of students who walked out of classes and workers who declined to show up for their jobs.

Anti-ICE protests are set to extend into the weekend around the country, with national organization 50501 having organized an “ICE Out of Everywhere” day of demonstrations on Saturday to follow Friday’s “national shutdown.”

What issues are driving the Anti-ICE Strike protests held in cities across the U.S.?

protests Held in Cities Across the U.S. in Anti-ICE Strike

Recent weeks have witnessed a surge in demonstrations across major U.S.cities as part of a coordinated “Anti-ICE Strike.” These protests, fueled by growing concerns over immigration policies and the treatment of migrants, represent a meaningful escalation in activism targeting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The movement draws support from a diverse coalition of advocacy groups, community organizations, and individual activists.

Understanding the Core Issues Driving the Protests

the protests aren’t simply about opposing ICE; they’re rooted in a complex web of interconnected issues. Key concerns include:

* Family Separations: The widely condemned practice of separating families at the U.S.-Mexico border remains a central grievance. Activists highlight the lasting trauma inflicted on children and parents.

* Detention Center Conditions: Reports of overcrowded and unsanitary conditions within ICE detention facilities, coupled with allegations of medical neglect, have sparked outrage.

* Deportation Policies: Critics argue that ICE’s deportation policies disproportionately target long-term residents,contributing members of society,and individuals with no criminal record.

* Lack of Accountability: Demands for greater transparency and accountability within ICE are prominent, with calls for independent oversight and investigations into alleged abuses.

* The Expansion of Surveillance: Concerns are growing regarding the increasing use of surveillance technologies by ICE, including facial recognition and data mining, raising privacy and civil liberties issues.

Key Cities and Protest actions

The Anti-ICE Strike has manifested in various forms across the country. Here’s a snapshot of activity in several key cities:

* New York City: Demonstrations have focused on disrupting ICE operations, including protests outside the Jacob K. Javits Center, which has temporarily housed migrant children.

* Los Angeles: Activists have organized marches and rallies demanding an end too ICE contracts with local jails and private prison companies.

* Chicago: Protests have targeted ICE field offices and elected officials, urging them to sever ties with the agency.

* Boston: Demonstrations have centered on advocating for sanctuary policies and protecting undocumented immigrants from deportation.

* Miami: Activists have focused on raising awareness about the impact of ICE policies on the local immigrant community, particularly Haitian immigrants.

Protest tactics have included:

* Marches and Rallies: Large-scale demonstrations designed to raise public awareness and exert pressure on policymakers.

* Civil Disobedience: Acts of nonviolent resistance, such as sit-ins and blockades, aimed at disrupting ICE operations.

* Direct Action: Targeted protests at ICE facilities,government buildings,and the homes of individuals associated with the agency.

* Community Organizing: Grassroots efforts to mobilize local communities and provide support to undocumented immigrants.

The Role of Advocacy Groups and Organizations

Numerous organizations are playing a crucial role in coordinating and supporting the Anti-ICE Strike. Some prominent groups include:

* ICE watch: A national network dedicated to monitoring ICE activities and advocating for immigrant rights.

* united We Dream: A youth-led immigrant rights institution that empowers undocumented youth to fight for their rights.

* American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU): The ACLU has been actively involved in challenging ICE policies in court and advocating for legislative reforms.

* National Immigration Law Center (NILC): NILC provides legal expertise and advocacy support to immigrant rights organizations across the country.

* Local Immigrant Rights Coalitions: Numerous local coalitions are working to address the specific needs and concerns of immigrant communities in their respective areas.

Legal Ramifications and Activist Responses

Protests have, predictably, led to arrests. Activists are often charged with offenses ranging from trespassing and disorderly conduct to more serious charges like obstructing government operations. Legal support networks have sprung up to provide assistance to those arrested, including legal representation and bail funds.

Many activists view arrest as a form of civil disobedience,a deliberate act of resistance against what they perceive as unjust policies. They often employ strategies like “jail solidarity,” where activists intentionally get arrested to draw attention to the cause and demonstrate their commitment.

The Impact of the Protests – Early Observations

While it’s too early to definitively assess the long-term impact of the Anti-ICE strike,several initial observations can be made:

* Increased Public Awareness: The protests have considerably raised public awareness about the issues surrounding ICE and immigration policy.

* political Pressure: The demonstrations have put pressure on elected officials to address the concerns of immigrant rights advocates.

* Shifting Public Discourse: The protests have contributed to a shift in public discourse, with more mainstream media outlets covering the issue of immigration and ICE’s role.

* Strengthened Activist Networks: The Anti-ICE Strike has strengthened existing activist networks and fostered new collaborations between organizations and individuals.

Resources for Further Details

* ICE Watch: https://icewatch.org/

* United We Dream: https://www.unitedwedream.org/

* ACLU: https://www.aclu.org/

* NILC: https://www.nilc.org/

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Entertainment

Minnesota’s Legal Crossfire: Can State Officials Sue Federal Agents?

by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor
written by Marina Collins - Entertainment Editor

“`html

Federal Authority vs.State Prosecution: Legal Battles Emerge After Minneapolis Shootings

Table of Contents

Minneapolis, minnesota – Following two fatal shootings involving federal agents in recent weeks, a complex legal debate is unfolding regarding the ability of state authorities to prosecute federal personnel. The incidents, occurring during heightened immigration enforcement operations authorized by President Trump, have ignited scrutiny and accusations of obstruction, prompting a federal judge to issue a preservation order for evidence related to the second shooting.

The Second Shooting and Rising Tensions

On Saturday, Alex Jeffrey Pretti became the second individual shot and killed by U.S. Border Patrol agents in minneapolis this month. This followed the death of Renee good, who was shot while in her vehicle by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent. Vice-President J.D. Vance publicly asserted that federal officials possess “absolute immunity” during thier duties, a claim that has drawn criticism and fueled calls for self-reliant investigations.

the Doctrine of Supremacy-clause Immunity

The core legal obstacle to state prosecution centers on the concept of “suprem

Under what circumstances can Minnesota state officials legally sue federal agents?

Minnesota’s Legal Crossfire: Can State Officials Sue Federal Agents?

The recent shooting of ICU nurse Alex Pretti in Minneapolis, involving federal agents, has ignited a fierce debate – and a potential legal battle – over the scope of federal authority within state lines.This incident, coupled with the ongoing presence of federal agents in Minnesota, especially related to immigration enforcement, raises a critical question: under what circumstances can Minnesota state officials legally challenge the actions of federal agents? This article dives into the complex legal landscape surrounding federal preemption, sovereign immunity, and potential avenues for state-level legal recourse.

Understanding Federal Preemption & State Authority

The core of this issue lies in the concept of federal preemption. The U.S. Constitution establishes a system where federal law is supreme to state law when there’s a conflict. However, this isn’t a blanket authorization for federal overreach. The 10th Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, and the people.

Here’s a breakdown of how preemption typically works:

* Express Preemption: Congress explicitly states that federal law overrides state law in a specific area.

* implied Preemption: Even without explicit language,federal law can preempt state law if:

* field Preemption: the federal government occupies the entire field of regulation,leaving no room for state action.

* Conflict Preemption: state law directly conflicts with federal law, making it unachievable to comply with both.

Minnesota,like other states,retains important authority over law enforcement within its borders,including areas like criminal procedure,policing standards,and the protection of its citizens’ rights. The tension arises when federal agents operate in ways that appear to infringe upon these state-level powers.

Sovereign Immunity: A Major Hurdle

A significant obstacle to state officials suing federal agents is the doctrine of sovereign immunity. This legal principle generally protects the federal government (and its agents) from lawsuits unless Congress explicitly waives that immunity.

* Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA): This act does provide a limited waiver of sovereign immunity, allowing lawsuits against the federal government for certain torts (civil wrongs) committed by federal employees. However, numerous exceptions apply, particularly in cases involving discretionary functions – meaning actions taken by agents based on their judgment.

* Bivens Actions: These lawsuits allow individuals to sue federal agents for constitutional violations. However,the Supreme Court has considerably limited the scope of Bivens actions,making them difficult to pursue successfully.

Potential Legal Avenues for Minnesota Officials

Despite these hurdles,Minnesota officials aren’t without potential legal options. Here are some avenues they might explore:

  1. Declaratory Judgment Actions: The state could seek a court declaration clarifying the scope of federal authority and the limits of federal agents’ actions within Minnesota. This doesn’t involve seeking damages, but rather establishing legal boundaries.
  2. Challenges Based on Constitutional Violations: If federal agents are demonstrably violating the constitutional rights of Minnesota residents (e.g.,illegal searches,excessive force),the state could file suit,arguing that these violations harm the state’s interests and its citizens.
  3. Intergovernmental Agreements (IGAs): Minnesota could attempt to negotiate IGAs with federal agencies to clearly define the roles and responsibilities of federal agents operating within the state. A breach of such an agreement could potentially give rise to a lawsuit.
  4. Suits Based on the Tenth Amendment: While challenging, the state could argue that certain federal actions exceed the scope of federal authority and infringe upon powers reserved to the states under the Tenth Amendment.
  5. Focus on Procedural Due Process: A key area for potential legal challenge centers around whether federal agents are adhering to proper legal procedures, including obtaining warrants when required, providing adequate notice, and respecting state court orders.

The Tom Homan Factor & increased Scrutiny

The expected arrival of Tom Homan, a staunch advocate for aggressive immigration enforcement during the trump administration, to Minnesota following the shooting has further heightened tensions. Homan’s past actions and rhetoric suggest a willingness to push the boundaries of federal authority, potentially increasing the likelihood of legal clashes with state officials. The situation underscores the need for clear legal guidelines and robust oversight of federal agents operating within state jurisdictions.

Case Study: Arizona v. United States (2012)

The 2012 Supreme Court case Arizona v. United States provides a relevant precedent. The Court struck down key provisions of an arizona law that attempted to regulate immigration, finding that those provisions were preempted by federal law. However, the Court also acknowledged the state’s legitimate interest in protecting its borders and public safety. This case illustrates the delicate balance between federal authority and state interests.

Practical Tips for Minnesota Residents & Officials

* know your Rights: Understand your constitutional rights, particularly regarding searches, seizures, and interactions with law enforcement.

* Document Everything: If you encounter federal agents, document the interaction as thoroughly as possible (date, time, location, names, what was said, etc.).

* Seek Legal Counsel: If you believe your rights have been violated, consult with an attorney experienced in civil rights law.

* Transparency & Oversight: Demand transparency from both state and federal officials regarding the activities of federal agents in Minnesota.

* Advocate for Clear Guidelines: Support efforts to establish clear legal guidelines and oversight mechanisms for federal agents operating within the state.

Benefits of Legal Clarity

Establishing clear legal boundaries between state and federal authority offers several benefits:

* **Protection of Civil

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
News

Health care workers join Oakland vigil to protest ICE fatal shooting of Minneapolis ICU nurse – The Mercury News

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

Registered nurse Silvia Lu was working the day shift at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital in Oakland when she read about the shooting death of ICU nurse Alex Pretti, who was protesting the ICE immigration crackdown on the streets of Minneapolis.

On a day shift in the emergency department Saturday, where Lu often cares for children recovering from heart surgeries and car crashes, she struggled to hold back her emotions.

“I held my tears back the whole day,” she said.

She carried that pent-up grief outside the hospital Monday evening, where she joined about 200 others, mostly nurses, in a candlelight vigil to remember the 37-year-old Minnesota nurse whose death has become the latest flashpoint in the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement surge.

Just weeks earlier, videos circulating online showed an ICE officer shooting and killing Renee Good, another Minnesota protester and mother of three, as she attempted to drive away during a separate enforcement operation, according to media reports.

“I just felt I needed to do something. I needed to stand up for this and to just make myself present to the horrendous things that are going on in this country,” said Mary Dhont, a nurse in the hospital’s outpatient infusion clinic who joined the vigil organized by the California Nurses Association. “This is just the latest in a string. But it was horrible. The fact that he was a nurse just brought it closer to home.”

Registered nurse Hannah Pelletier, center, friend Tim McNamara, left, and others attend a protest outside of UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland in Oakland, Calif., on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. Healthcare professionals and others are demanding justice and the abolishment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE ) in the wake of the killing of Veteran’s Administration nurse Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)l 

The nurses’ vigil came after a weekend of scattered protests in San Francisco, San Jose and Oakland over Pretti’s death.

So far, the Bay Area has been spared the kind of sweeping federal operation underway in Minneapolis. There, videos and news reports have shown ICE agents pulling people from their vehicles and detaining children during enforcement actions. Separate bystander videos captured the shootings of both Pretti and Good.

In October, after President Donald Trump sent 4,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles, he threatened to deploy them to San Francisco as well to clean up the city’s “mess.” But the president backed off after appeals from San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie and tech executives, including Marc Benioff, the Salesforce CEO whose family name is attached to the Oakland children’s hospital.

Benioff initially suggested Trump deploy the troops during his Dreamforce convention but later reversed course and apologized.

On Monday, in a petition circulating online, a group of tech workers urged Silicon Valley executives to flex their political muscle again and “cancel all company contracts with ICE.”

“This cannot continue, and we know the tech industry can make a difference,” they wrote. “Today, we’re calling on our CEOs to pick up the phone again.”

At the vigil, many attendees expressed concern that the Bay Area — home to nearly 500,000 undocumented immigrants, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates — could be the next target of intensified enforcement.

Nurses said they were especially worried about the families of their young patients.

Registered nurse Michelle Trautman, center, and others attend a protest outside of UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland in Oakland, Calif., on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. Protesters are demanding justice and the abolishment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE ) in the wake of the killing of Veteran's Administration nurse Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)l
Registered nurse Michelle Trautman, center, and others attend a protest outside of UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland in Oakland, Calif., on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. Protesters are demanding justice and the abolishment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE ) in the wake of the killing of Veteran’s Administration nurse Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)l 

“We take care of a lot of families, immigrant families, patients that may not have the ability to afford care otherwise,” said nurse Michelle Trautman. “And I’m concerned that they’re going to try and take advantage of that vulnerability to grab some of our patients and send them away when they obviously need care.”

In the hours after Pretti’s death, Trump administration officials said the shooting was justified, arguing that because Pretti carried a legally registered handgun in his waistband, he posed a threat to officers and intended a “massacre.” Trump adviser Stephen Miller called Pretti an “assassin.”

Those characterizations outraged his family and Democratic politicians, who pointed to bystander videos showing Pretti helping a woman who had been pushed by an ICE agent and holding only his camera.

He was pinned to the ground by multiple ICE agents, the videos show, and his gun had already been pulled from his waistband by an agent when he was shot several times.

The Bay Area’s Democratic congressional delegation has responded by voting against a Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill that would provide additional funding for ICE.

Healthcare professionals and community members attend a protest outside of UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland in Oakland, Calif., on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. Healthcare professionals and others are demanding justice and the abolishment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE ) in the wake of the killing of Veteran's Administration nurse Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)l
Healthcare professionals and community members attend a protest outside of UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland in Oakland, Calif., on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. Healthcare professionals and others are demanding justice and the abolishment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE ) in the wake of the killing of Veteran’s Administration nurse Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)l 

“I cannot and will not continue to fund lawlessness or federal agencies that terrorize families in their own neighborhoods and criminalize people for seeking opportunity and refuge,” U.S. Rep. Lateefah Simon, D-Oakland, said in a statement. “What we’re witnessing is cruel, immoral, and completely at odds with the promise of the American dream.”

U.S. Rep. Sam Liccardo, San Jose’s former mayor, also voted against further funding.

“ICE has abandoned its mission of removing violent criminals in favor of detaining children, shooting Americans, and terrorizing our communities,” he said in a statement.

At the busy intersection of 52nd Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Way on Monday evening, streams of cars honked and waved as they passed nurses and other supporters holding signs reading “Melt ICE” and “Justice for Alex Pretti.”

Aaron Cortez, of Oakland, attends a protest outside of UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland in Oakland, Calif., on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. Healthcare professionals and others are demanding justice and the abolishment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE ) in the wake of the killing of Veteran's Administration nurse Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)l
Aaron Cortez, of Oakland, attends a protest outside of UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland in Oakland, Calif., on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. Healthcare professionals and others are demanding justice and the abolishment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE ) in the wake of the killing of Veteran’s Administration nurse Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)l 

Aaron Cortez, 28, of Alameda, said fear drove him to attend the vigil.

His family has lived in California for generations, with relatives who served in the U.S. military, but he still worries about a potential ICE raid.

“They just see me by the color of my skin, and that worries me,” said Cortez, who cares for ailing relatives at home. “And so I decided to come out because I had to, I needed to show that we’re all here together, that no matter what happens, we will all protect each other.”

1 of 12

Former San Francisco city attorney Nancy Tavernit, right, attends a protest at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland in Oakland, Calif., on Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. Healthcare professionals and others are demanding justice and the abolishment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE ) in the wake of the killing of Veteran’s Administration nurse Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. (Jane Tyska/Bay Area News Group)

Expand

What legal steps are being taken to investigate the ICU nurse shooting in Minneapolis by ICE?

Table of Contents

Oakland Vigil: Healthcare Workers Demand Justice for Minneapolis ICU Nurse Shot by ICE

The fatal shooting of a Minneapolis ICU nurse by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has sparked outrage and protests nationwide, including a powerful vigil held in Oakland, California. Healthcare professionals, advocates for immigrant rights, and community members gathered to mourn the loss and demand accountability.This article delves into the details of the incident, the Oakland vigil, and the broader context of ICE operations and their impact on vulnerable communities.

The Incident: A Life Cut Short

Details surrounding the shooting remain under inquiry, but reports indicate the nurse, identified as [Name Redacted – pending official release and respecting privacy], was shot by an ICE agent during a targeted enforcement operation in Minneapolis on January 24th, 2026. The nurse,a dedicated critical care professional,was reportedly at home when the incident occurred. ICE has stated the shooting happened during an encounter with a person believed to be a fugitive with outstanding warrants.However, community activists and legal observers question the necessity and proportionality of the force used.

The shooting immediately ignited protests, with many questioning ICE’s tactics and the potential for escalation during routine enforcement actions. Concerns have been raised about the lack of transparency surrounding ICE operations and the potential for misidentification and wrongful targeting.

oakland’s Response: A Vigil for Justice

On January 26th, 2026, hundreds converged in Oakland’s [Location of Vigil – e.g., Frank ogawa Plaza] for a candlelight vigil honoring the slain nurse. The event was organized by a coalition of healthcare worker unions, immigrant rights groups like [Local Oakland Advocacy Group – e.g.,Causa Justa::Just Cause],and community organizations.

The vigil featured:

* Speeches from healthcare workers: Nurses, doctors, and other medical professionals shared their grief and spoke about the vital role immigrants play in the healthcare system. Many highlighted the irony of a healthcare worker being killed by an agency frequently enough associated with denying healthcare access to vulnerable populations.

* Testimonials from community members: Individuals shared personal stories about the fear and anxiety experienced by immigrant families in the face of increased ICE enforcement.

* chants and songs: Participants chanted slogans demanding justice for the nurse and an end to ICE’s aggressive tactics.

* A symbolic display: attendees placed candles and flowers to represent the life lost and the need for healing.

The Oakland vigil served as a powerful presentation of solidarity with the Minneapolis community and a call for systemic change.

ICE Operations and Community impact

This incident underscores the ongoing debate surrounding ICE’s role and its impact on communities. Critics argue that ICE’s enforcement-first approach creates a climate of fear, disrupts families, and hinders access to essential services, including healthcare.

Key concerns include:

* Collateral Damage: The risk of innocent bystanders being harmed during ICE operations, as tragically demonstrated in Minneapolis.

* Due Process Concerns: Questions about the fairness and accuracy of ICE’s targeting and detention practices.

* Impact on Public Health: The chilling affect of ICE enforcement on immigrants’ willingness to seek medical care, even in emergencies. Studies have shown a decrease in healthcare utilization among immigrant communities fearing deportation.

* Separation of Families: The devastating consequences of ICE detentions and deportations on families and communities.

The Role of Healthcare Workers in Advocacy

The strong presence of healthcare workers at the Oakland vigil highlights a growing trend of medical professionals becoming actively involved in advocating for immigrant rights. Many believe they have a moral and ethical obligation to protect the health and well-being of all patients, regardless of immigration status.

Healthcare workers are increasingly:

* Providing Know Your rights education: Informing patients about their rights and protections during encounters with law enforcement.

* Advocating for policies that protect immigrant health: Supporting legislation that expands access to healthcare for all.

* Speaking out against ICE’s harmful practices: Using their voices to raise awareness and demand accountability.

* Offering medical support to asylum seekers and refugees: Providing care to those fleeing persecution and violence.

Legal and Investigative Updates

As of January 27th, 2026, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) is leading the investigation into the shooting.ICE has stated it is cooperating fully with the investigation. Legal organizations,including the ACLU of Minnesota and [Local Immigration Law firm],are offering legal portrayal to the nurse’s family and are calling for an autonomous investigation. The Department of Homeland Security’s Inspector General has also announced a review of the incident. Updates will be provided as they become available.

0 comments
0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Newer Posts
Older Posts
@2025 - All Right Reserved.

Hosted by ByoHosting - Most Recommendeed Webhhosting. For complains, abuse, advertising contact:
[email protected]

Adblock Detected

Please support us by disabling your AdBlocker extension from your browsers for our website.