Protests erupted across the United States on Saturday, including in Minneapolis, New York City, San Francisco, Boston, and Providence, Rhode Island, following the shooting death of 37-year-old Alex Pretti, a registered nurse from Minneapolis, by federal agents.
Nationwide Demonstrations
The demonstrations follow protests held the previous day in Minneapolis, where thousands marched against US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Protesters braved frigid temperatures to voice opposition to the agency and to express support for Pretti and others impacted by increased immigration enforcement in the city. Chants of “Fuck ICE, ICE out” were heard during livestreams of Saturday night’s demonstrations.
Thousands rallied in New York City’s Union Square, chanting “Say it once, say it twice, we will not put up with ICE!” New York City Council member Chi Ossé addressed the crowd, calling for the abolishment of ICE and stating, “We need Nuremberg trials for the people of ICE… They are agents of chaos.”
In Washington D.C., a large crowd gathered outside the headquarters of the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with video footage capturing cries of “shame.” Hundreds also protested in San Francisco, holding signs and chanting “stand up fight back,” while also demanding justice for Renee Good, another Minneapolis resident killed by an immigration officer earlier this month.
Demonstrations also took place in Providence, Rhode Island, where protesters chanted “Shut it down,” and in Boston, where demonstrators chanted, “One, two, three, four, ICE detention no more! Five, six, seven, eight, end the terror and the hate!”
The Shooting of Alex Pretti
Pretti was shot multiple times during an encounter with law enforcement officers. Video footage shows Pretti being wrestled to the ground by officers before the shooting. He was initially apprehended after appearing to intervene on behalf of an observer who had been shoved by a federal officer. According to reports, Pretti was sprayed with a chemical agent and tackled before shots were fired. An analyst suggested footage showed Pretti had a gun taken away from him prior to the shooting.
The DHS and Secretary Kristi Noem have stated that Pretti “approached US border patrol officers with a 9mm semi-automatic handgun” and that officers attempted to disarm him. However, this account is disputed by available video evidence. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara confirmed Pretti was a lawful gun owner with a permit to carry.
Back in Minneapolis, hundreds gathered at the site of the shooting, creating a memorial and holding signs reading “Justice for Alex Pretti.” Local businesses provided water, coffee, and snacks to protesters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the protests?
The protests were sparked by the shooting death of 37-year-old Alex Pretti, a registered nurse in Minneapolis, by federal agents.
Where did the protests take place?
Protests occurred in Minneapolis, New York City, San Francisco, Boston, Providence, Rhode Island, and Washington D.C.
What are protesters demanding?
Protesters are expressing opposition to ICE and demanding justice for Alex Pretti, as well as Renee Good, another Minneapolis resident killed by an immigration officer earlier this month.
As investigations continue and tensions remain high, it is possible that further demonstrations will occur in the coming days and weeks. The response from federal and local authorities, and any subsequent legal proceedings, could significantly influence the trajectory of these protests.
Keep reading
