High School Journalist Captures Impact of ICE Raids on Minneapolis Community

January 19, 2026 – USA –

A federal immigration enforcement operation led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has triggered deepening unrest and fear in Minneapolis, Minnesota, particularly after a fatal shooting by an ICE agent on January 7, 2026, of Renée Good, a resident, an event that significantly intensified federal actions and community response. The heightened enforcement, part of what authorities describe as “Operation Metro Surge,” has seen hundreds of federal agents deployed across the city and has had direct impacts on residents’ daily lives, including students, families, and business owners.

Among the most striking reactions has been the account of high school journalist Lila Dominguez, a junior at Roosevelt High School, who documented the chaos and fear that accompanied an ICE presence on her school’s campus on January 7. Dominguez recounted the emotional stress experienced by students and staff, with agents reportedly using chemical irritants and detaining a school staff member, prompting Minneapolis Public Schools to cancel classes and offer remote learning through mid-February amid safety concerns. Her widely shared column called for ICE to leave the city, reflecting broader frustration and anxiety among Minneapolis’ immigrant communities.

The enforcement surge has also disrupted local commerce and community life, with Somali-owned businesses reporting reduced customers due to fear of detentions and raids as ICE arrests have climbed. Some residents and advocates describe the federal operation as an occupation that has transformed everyday routines, from closed stores to students reluctant to attend school normally.

Public officials and civil liberties groups have voiced concern about the aggressive tactics by federal agents. A federal judge recently issued restrictions on ICE’s use of pepper spray and other crowd control measures after legal challenges alleged civil rights violations tied to the agency’s tactics during protests. Local leaders, including Minneapolis officials, have criticised the heavy federal presence, arguing it undermines community trust and safety.

The situation has also sparked broader political debate and protest activity. Counterdemonstrations in support of immigrant rights have taken place, and public sentiment toward ICE has turned more negative, with polls showing increased opposition to the agency’s methods following the Minneapolis incidents. The unfolding dynamics in the city illustrate the complex intersection of immigration enforcement, community fear, press documentation, and civic response during a period of heightened federal action.

Reference – 

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jan/18/minneapolis-ice-raids-high-school