University Group Leads Anti-ICE Protests, Raising Concerns
A student group at the University of Minnesota is taking a leading role in protests against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). These demonstrations have sometimes turned disruptive, causing concern among local residents and authorities.
The group, known as UMN SDS, recently organized a protest outside a hotel on campus, claiming it housed ICE agents. Protesters created disturbances, leading to the arrest of several individuals. This event marks a shift for the group, which in the past has been involved in other controversial actions, including a protest in 2024 that resulted in property damage and disruption.
UMN SDS has organized multiple rallies, encouraging supporters to confront what they describe as “homicidal kidnappers,” referring to ICE agents. At one such protest, several individuals were arrested after the crowd caused property damage and created unsafe conditions. The group has used social media to promote these events, sometimes using inflammatory language.
The university group also provides “rapid response trainings” on campus. They coordinate walkouts, showing their dedication to their cause.
The recent focus on anti-ICE activism represents a change for UMN SDS. In the past, the group has been vocal on other issues.
In 2024, members of UMN SDS occupied a campus building, demanding that the university stop investing in Israel. The protesters barricaded doors, damaged property, and caused significant disruption. Staff members were trapped inside the building, and Jewish students on campus sought safety due to fears of escalating violence.
The police eventually arrested the protesters. The university did not meet the group’s demands.
UMN SDS is part of a broader movement of left-leaning groups that have focused on opposing ICE. These groups often coordinate their efforts and share resources, showing a united front against current immigration enforcement policies.
UMN SDS has promoted a list of hotels thought to house ICE agents and has encouraged supporters to join other protests. One such protest became violent, with demonstrators damaging property and vandalizing a hotel.
The group has also promoted training sessions on how to “kick ICE out of your city” and target hotels housing ICE agents, showing a clear strategy to disrupt immigration enforcement efforts.
The recent arrests highlight the growing anti-ICE movement. One of those arrested, is associated with an environmental group that receives funding from left-leaning organizations.
Another person arrested, is connected with a socialist organization that aims to create a communist party in the United States. This individual also works as a teacher in the Minneapolis Public School District.
The Minneapolis Public School District has not commented on whether this teacher will face any consequences for their arrest or if they were aware of the teacher’s past involvement in disruptive protests before hiring them.
Both individuals arrested face charges related to unlawful assembly and disorderly conduct. Other protesters, believed to be students, were not booked or identified in the jail records.
A university representative stated that the university will follow its student conduct code in addressing the situation. The group had previously been suspended for violating university policies. The representative added that the university has processes for groups to reserve space on campus, but did not explain how UMN SDS was able to hold its trainings.
In the past, protesters involved in similar incidents have faced few consequences. Students suspended for a previous protest were later reinstated.
The recent events at the University of Minnesota raise questions about the balance between free speech and the need to maintain order and safety on campus. The university community and the public will be watching closely to see how these issues are addressed in the future.
