Duluth participates in nationwide ICE protests

DULUTH, Minn. — Twin Ports residents gathered at Lake Avenue and Superior Street during a weekend of nationwide protests following the death of Renee Nicole Good, who was fatally shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer in Minneapolis.

Organized by the Twin Ports Democratic Socialists of America, Anti-Imperialist Action, and the Northwoods Socialist Collective, the protest focused on ICE’s presence in Minnesota and across the country, as well as the United States involvement in Venezuela. Organizers reported that around 500 people attended, holding signs and chanting throughout the peaceful demonstration as passing cars honked in support. Protesters later marched to Duluth City Hall, where the event continued with music and speakers.

“We’re the ones who are keeping our community safe right now is the reality. So when our systems aren’t keeping us safe, it’s up to us to form community organizations that will protect us,” said Eleanor Dolan, Organizer, Twin Ports DSA. “It’s great to see so many people out here today. I mean, yeah, it shows that people have had enough. We’re ready to fight back, and we’re not okay with the way our country is headed.”

Others at the rally said their participation was driven by broader concerns about the country’s direction and the importance of civic engagement.

“We’re standing out in the cold because we believe in democracy and we believe in people, and we’re trying to set things right and keep them right for justice.” “It’s heartwarming to see everybody supporting this. There’s a lot of people fighting for democracy. This is what our country is. We’re marching, and we’re fighting for democracy,” said Missy LePage, “unpaid” protester.

Organizers say this won’t be the last, with additional protests planned across the Twin Ports area.