BREAKING NEWS: The largest general strike in 70 years is happening today in Minnesota. They are demanding ice out for good. Raise your hand if you agree with this

On January 23, 2026, Minnesota saw a large-scale general strike and series of protests, often described by organizers and participants as one of the most significant in recent U.S. history. Tens of thousands of people marched in downtown Minneapolis and other areas, braving subzero temperatures (as low as -20°F or lower).

The action involved widespread closures of businesses—reports estimate hundreds (some sources say over 700 small businesses and institutions)—along with walkouts from work and school. Participants refused to engage in typical economic activity as part of a “no work, no school, no shopping” call.

The primary demand was “ICE out for good” (or variations like “ICE Out of Minnesota” and “ICE out everywhere”), calling for the removal of federal ICE agents from the state, an end to aggressive immigration enforcement raids, accountability for incidents involving ICE (including fatal shootings), and rejection of further funding for the agency.

This stemmed from heightened federal operations under the Trump administration, including a surge of agents in the Twin Cities area, often referred to as “Operation Metro Surge.”

The strike echoed historical events like the 1934 Minneapolis general strike but was framed as a response to contemporary issues, including reported deaths of U.S. citizens during ICE encounters (e.g., Renée Good on January 7, 2026, and others mentioned in coverage).

Organizers, including labor unions, faith groups (such as Faith in Minnesota), community coalitions, student groups from the University of Minnesota, and immigrant rights organizations, coordinated the effort. It drew comparisons to the 2006 “Day Without Immigrants” protests.

Media outlets like Reuters, The New York Times, The Guardian, Labor Notes, and local sources (KARE 11, Democracy Now!) covered the event, noting massive crowds, marches to federal buildings, and chants like “Shut it down” and “ICE out now!” Some described it as the first general strike in the U.S. in decades or even 80 years in the region.