Residents of Worthington, Minnesota, are gearing up for a peaceful protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) scheduled for **3 p.m. on February 1, 2024**. The event will feature a **5-mile march** starting from the **10th Street Pavilion**, located near the intersection of Second Avenue and 10th Street. The protest aims to highlight community concerns regarding the treatment of immigrants and citizens alike amid increasing ICE activities in the state.
Organizer Rubi Lara, a native of Worthington, initiated plans for the march after recognizing a significant community sentiment against the current practices of ICE, particularly in light of recent incidents involving the detention and deportation of individuals in Minnesota. “I felt like there are so many more of us in this town that do think like we do, who want others to have happy lives and live normally,” Lara stated. She emphasized that many community members feel compelled to remain silent due to fear, despite their desire for positive change.
The path to organizing the protest has not been without challenges. Lara encountered initial pushback from some community members concerned that the event might attract unwanted attention to Worthington. “I wanted to double-check with others and see what they thought,” she explained. “Their concerns were very valid.” After engaging in respectful dialogue, Lara reaffirmed her commitment to the protest, particularly following the fatal shootings of **Renée Good** on **January 7** and **Alex Pretti** on **January 24**, both involving ICE agents in Minneapolis.
Reflecting on these tragic events, Lara expressed her outrage. “It infuriates me. This is three hours away from me. It could happen anywhere,” she noted. As the planning progressed, community support began to grow, with donations coming in to assist with the protest efforts. “I have gotten a donation for our efforts and the protest already, and I have also got another donation that’s in talks right now,” she shared.
Lara and her fellow organizers are prioritizing nonviolent engagement during the protest, preparing to interact legally and respectfully with ICE, should they be present. The group has also arranged for provisions to ensure participants remain warm during the anticipated cold weather. “We have purchased some Hot Hand packs and toe warmers that will be available at various stopping points along the route,” she said.
Participation in the march is open to all who share the protest’s values. Lara mentioned that while initial interest appeared modest, **24 individuals** are confirmed to attend, with **63 more** expressing interest. Efforts to promote the event through posters and social media are ongoing. “We need everyone who is a citizen—especially white folks—to come out and stand up for what’s right,” she added.
The overarching message of the protest is one of solidarity and compassion. Lara emphasized the need for a collective response to the fear felt by many in the community, particularly those worried about their safety and the safety of their families. “We’ve got to stick together and abolish ICE,” she stated.
For Lara, Worthington represents a place of belonging. “It feels like a place where someone can really belong,” she said, highlighting the town’s rich cultural diversity. The protest aims to reaffirm this sense of community, showcasing the shared commitment to support and protect one another.
For further details about the march and updates, interested individuals can visit the Anti-ICE Protest March’s Facebook page.
