Anti-ICE Protesters Occupy Minneapolis Target, Demand End to Federal Agent Access
MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — A group of anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) protesters staged a sit-in at a Target store in Minneapolis on Monday, demanding the retail giant cease allowing federal immigration agents to use its premises as a base for enforcement operations. The demonstrators occupied the store for several hours, asserting that Target’s parking lots have been regularly used by ICE agents to coordinate immigration enforcement activities.
One protester, holding a sign calling to “Abolish ICE,” said, “Target parking lots have been a meeting place for ICE agents,” and added that agents even use the store’s restrooms, effectively facilitating what the group described as an “invasion.” The protesters called on Target to take a public stand against what they characterized as ethnic cleansing occurring under current immigration policies.
Target has not publicly commented on the allegations. However, the protesters’ claims highlight a growing tension between community activists and federal immigration authorities. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency often conducts operations in various locations, including public and private spaces, as part of its mandate to enforce immigration laws.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, ICE operations are coordinated to balance enforcement priorities with community safety. The use of private property for staging is generally subject to agreements or legal permissions, though specific details regarding Target’s cooperation have not been disclosed.
The protest in Minneapolis follows a series of similar demonstrations nationwide, where activists have targeted businesses and institutions perceived to be collaborating with federal immigration enforcement. The American Civil Liberties Union has frequently criticized ICE’s enforcement tactics, citing concerns over civil rights and community impact.
Local authorities monitored the sit-in but did not immediately intervene, emphasizing the right to peaceful protest. The Minneapolis Police Department stated that they were aware of the demonstration and were prepared to respond if the situation escalated.
Community leaders in Minnesota have expressed mixed reactions. Some support the protesters’ calls for corporate accountability, while others urge dialogue and cooperation to address immigration issues constructively.
Data from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection indicates that immigration enforcement remains a priority for federal agencies, with ongoing operations targeting unauthorized immigration and related offenses. The debate over enforcement methods and community impact continues to fuel protests and policy discussions across the country.
As the situation develops, Target and federal agencies have yet to issue further statements regarding the use of retail locations for immigration enforcement staging. Meanwhile, activists vow to maintain pressure on corporations they believe are complicit in federal immigration actions.
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