San Diego, January 8, 2026
On January 7, residents of San Diego gathered to protest the shooting of a woman by an ICE agent during an immigration operation in Minneapolis. About 100 participants demonstrated at the Edward J. Schwartz Federal Courthouse, opposing federal immigration enforcement. Organizers include local community organizations and unions, who plan to hold weekly protests advocating for changes in immigration practices. The event highlights the growing national discussion surrounding immigration enforcement and public safety.
San Diego Residents Protest ICE Fatal Shooting in Minneapolis
San Diego, California – On January 7, 2026, approximately 100 San Diegans gathered in downtown to protest the fatal shooting of a woman by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent during an immigration operation in Minneapolis. The demonstration took place in front of the Edward J. Schwartz Federal Courthouse, where participants chanted, “Say it loud, say it clear, immigrants are welcome here,” expressing their opposition to federal immigration enforcement actions.
Details of the Minneapolis Incident
The incident in question occurred earlier that day in Minneapolis, where an ICE agent fatally shot a woman during a traffic stop. Federal officials described the event as a “vehicle ramming” incident, claiming the woman attempted to run over law enforcement officers. However, local authorities and witnesses have disputed this account, with some suggesting the shooting was unjustified.
Local Response and Demonstrations
In response to the Minneapolis shooting, San Diego residents organized the “ICE Out of San Diego” protest. The coalition behind the demonstration includes various community organizations and labor unions, such as Indivisible 49, Service Employees International Union United Service Workers West, and the San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council. The group plans to hold weekly protests every Thursday from 10 a.m. to noon, aiming to raise awareness and advocate for changes in immigration enforcement practices.
Background on ICE Operations and Community Concerns
ICE operations have been a source of contention in various communities. For instance, in September 2025, unions, advocates, and elected officials rallied against ICE in downtown San Diego, expressing concerns over the deployment of National Guard troops and ICE agents into local neighborhoods. These actions have sparked debates about the balance between national security and community trust.
Additionally, the fatal shooting of Silverio Villegas González by an ICE agent in Franklin Park, Illinois, in September 2025, has intensified discussions about the use of force by federal immigration officers. González was shot and killed while attempting to flee a traffic stop, raising questions about the circumstances leading to his death and the broader implications for immigration enforcement practices. The recent protests in San Diego reflect a growing national dialogue on immigration enforcement and the need for policies that ensure both public safety and the protection of individual rights.
Key Features of the San Diego Protest
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Protest | January 7, 2026 |
| Location | Edward J. Schwartz Federal Courthouse, downtown San Diego |
| Number of Participants | Approximately 100 |
| Organizers | Indivisible 49, Service Employees International Union United Service Workers West, San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council |
| Protest Schedule | Weekly on Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon |
| Purpose | Opposition to ICE’s fatal shooting in Minneapolis and advocacy for changes in immigration enforcement practices |
FAQ
What was the purpose of the San Diego protest on January 7, 2026?
The protest aimed to express opposition to the fatal shooting of a woman by an ICE agent during an immigration operation in Minneapolis and to advocate for changes in immigration enforcement practices.
Who organized the “ICE Out of San Diego” protest?
The protest was organized by a coalition of community organizations and labor unions, including Indivisible 49, Service Employees International Union United Service Workers West, and the San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council.
What is the significance of the Silverio Villegas González case?
The case involves the fatal shooting of Silverio Villegas González by an ICE agent in Franklin Park, Illinois, in September 2025, raising questions about the use of force by federal immigration officers and prompting discussions on immigration enforcement practices.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Diego’s ‘No War on Venezuela!’ Protest Draws Crowd
Activists in San Diego Monitor Immigration Enforcement
San Diego Welcomes PROPER NYE/NYD Festival
San Diego Protests Against Authoritarian Policies
San Diego Settles Konoa Wilson Case for $30 Million
San Diego SWAT Standoff Ends with Suspect in Custody
San Diego’s 2025 Highlights: Major Events and Milestones
San Diego Considers $30 Million Settlement for Police Shooting
U.S. Bank Launches All-In-One Cash Flow Management Platform for Small Businesses
Marine Dies in Training Accident at Camp Pendleton
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
