Hundreds of Minnesota businesses closed Friday to protest the ongoing ICE presence in the state. Thousands of protesters rallied in severely cold weather, responding to calls to boycott work, school, and shopping. The closures and demonstrations aimed to oppose the Trump administration's six-week-old ICE operation in Minnesota.
The ICE operation, framed as a public safety measure targeting criminal undocumented immigrants, has drawn criticism. Detainments allegedly include migrants without criminal records and even US citizens. About 100 clergy members were arrested at the Minneapolis airport during a protest urging airlines to refuse transporting ICE detainees. Airport officials stated the arrests occurred after the protest exceeded agreed-upon terms.
The immediate financial impact of the business closures remains unclear. No major market disruptions were immediately reported. The long-term economic consequences of the boycott are yet to be determined.
The Trump administration's ICE operation has been ongoing for over six weeks. Critics argue the operation's scope extends beyond its stated purpose. Further protests and potential legal challenges are anticipated. The situation remains fluid, with continued monitoring expected from business and community leaders.
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