Businesses Ban ICE Officers Amid Rising Outrage in Minneapolis and Beyond

Minneapolis businesses have taken a strong stand against federal immigration enforcement amid rising tensions and protests. The decision by several local enterprises to deny entry to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers reflects increasing dissatisfaction with the federal government’s deportation policies.

Background of Tensions

In recent weeks, the presence of federal immigration agents has escalated dramatically in Minneapolis. Business owners report incidents of aggressive arrests, which have heightened fears within the community. This response follows national outrage over the shooting of a woman, Renee Good, by an ICE officer in January 2026.

Local Protests and Response

Protests erupted after Good’s death, leading to significant unrest in the city. Many residents expressed their frustration over the growing violence and police presence. Local restaurant owner Dylan Alverson described the atmosphere, stating that attempts to live and work in affected neighborhoods have become increasingly difficult.

Business Resistance Against ICE Officers

Many Minneapolis businesses, including Alverson’s café, Modern Times, have displayed signs indicating that ICE officers cannot enter their premises without a valid judicial warrant. These signs emphasize the legal requirement for federal officers to obtain permission or a court-signed warrant to search private property.

• A notice in Alverson’s café proclaims: “Private Property. No ICE or CBP Access.”
• Other businesses have followed suit, showing solidarity with the immigrant community.
• While legal experts note that these signs may hold limited legal weight, they serve as a crucial symbol of resistance.

Consequences for Businesses

As protests continue, local businesses face mounting challenges. Physical damage during protests, including broken windows and graffiti, has been reported. For example, a hotel in downtown Minneapolis experienced approximately $6,000 in damages after protests related to Good’s death.

National Concerns and Commercial Impact

The impact extends beyond Minneapolis. Businesses across the U.S. are witnessing declines in employee attendance, as many workers fear potential detainment by ICE. Companies are also wary of reputational damage associated with their immigration stances.

Corporations like Hilton are distancing themselves from immigration enforcement following backlash against their employees’ interactions with federal officers. In some instances, local branches have faced criticism for alleged cooperation with ICE.

The Broader Movement

Resistance to ICE enforcement has grown, manifesting in numerous storefronts in cities like Portland and Washington as well. Signs demanding warrants can be seen throughout various business districts, symbolizing the pushback against aggressive immigration tactics.

Attorney Lucas Guttentag highlights that while the signs are not legally required, they clarify that businesses do not consent to ICE’s entry. The signs reinforce community support for immigrant rights and signal a commitment to protecting local residents.

Conclusion

The rising outrage against ICE operations in Minneapolis has galvanized local businesses to openly reject federal immigration enforcement. This movement reflects broader national sentiments regarding immigration policies and emphasizes the need for community solidarity in the face of increasing federal pressure. As tensions mount, businesses like Modern Times remain determined to stand their ground.