Large crowds of protesters gathered on the morning of 30/1 outside the Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to oppose immigration enforcement operations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

"Expel ICE!" chanted protesters, bundled in thick jackets and scarves against the freezing weather. "No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here," another slogan declared.

Protesters against ICE gathered outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on 30/1. *Photo: AP*

University of Minnesota student groups on 30/1 also called for a nationwide general strike over the weekend, aiming to "paralyze the economy." Their slogan was: "No Work. No School. No Shopping. Stop Funding ICE."

On 31/1, the 50501 movement, short for "50 protests, 50 states, one movement," will coordinate a "National Day of Action." This will include numerous protests, marches, and vigils across all 50 states and Washington, D.C.

Following the deaths of at least 8 people linked to ICE's immigration crackdowns since the beginning of the year, many activists are calling for the complete removal of immigration agents and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) from towns and cities across the US.

"We are responding to the public's outrage," said Gloriann Sahay, coordinator of the 50501 movement. "Many people who were not interested in politics are exclaiming that 'this is not the America I know'."

Protesters holding "ICE out" signs oppose the immigration crackdown campaign on the streets of Minneapolis on 23/1. *Photo: Reuters*

The protests erupted to demand justice for victims shot by ICE agents, including two white US citizens, Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, in Minnesota.

Beyond protests, the 50501 movement targets sources of support for ICE. Key initiatives include the No Housing for ICE campaign, which urges hotels to refuse accommodation to agency staff during immigration crackdowns, and the #DontServeICE movement, which calls on local businesses to stop serving federal immigration agents.

The movement also announced it would closely monitor votes related to funding for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or expanding ICE's powers. It will also support potential challengers to replace "pro-ICE" politicians in the upcoming election.

The activities on 31/1 represent one part of the 50501 movement's larger, ongoing campaign. Following the "National Day of Action," the group plans to organize a "national day of advocacy demanding the impeachment of President Donald Trump" on 17/2.

"The flame of outrage has ignited," Sahay stated. "We hope everyone will stand up together for all people and for the core values of America."

By Ngoc Anh (Source: Guardian, CNN)