Across the United States on Friday, thousands of people participated in a nationwide strike and protests to condemn federal immigration enforcement practices and the recent killing of Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old man shot by federal agents in Minneapolis. The demonstrations, organised by community and immigrant rights groups, involved school walkouts, work stoppages, and temporary closures of shops and businesses in cities including Minneapolis, New York, Los Angeles, and Atlanta.
Pretti, a registered nurse, was reportedly filming a federal immigration operation when he was shot multiple times by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers on January 24. His death has sparked national outrage, drawing comparisons to previous controversial incidents involving federal officers. The Department of Justice (DOJ) has launched a civil rights investigation, with the FBI reviewing whether Pretti’s rights were violated.
The protests are part of growing public anger over federal immigration tactics. Activists have called for greater accountability for agents, the withdrawal of ICE from certain communities, and reforms to enforcement policies. Many organisers described Friday’s actions as a “day of resistance,” emphasising that people across the country were standing in solidarity with immigrant communities and demanding justice.
The strike saw schools closing classrooms, employees skipping work, and stores pausing operations. While most demonstrations remained peaceful, some cities reported clashes between law enforcement and protesters. Local authorities in several areas, however, expressed support for peaceful assemblies, highlighting the importance of civic engagement and dialogue.
Pretti’s death follows similar controversial federal operations, including the fatal shooting of Renée Good, which has also drawn criticism from civil rights advocates. The DOJ has not yet opened a federal investigation into Good’s death, raising concerns among activists about inconsistent accountability.
Organisers signalled that further nationwide actions could follow if federal authorities fail to address demands for reform. The protests reflect a broader debate over immigration enforcement in the US, with citizens calling for transparency, accountability, and protection of civil rights.
