BREAKING: The largest general strike in 70 years is happening today in Minnesota. They are demanding ice out for good. Raise your hand if you agree with this✋

Has circulated widely on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Threads, Instagram, and Facebook in recent days. It refers to a major protest action in Minnesota tied to opposition against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations

On January 23, 2026, Minnesota saw a large-scale general strike and series of protests, often described by organizers and participants as one of the most significant in recent U.S. history. Tens of thousands of people marched in downtown Minneapolis and other areas, braving subzero temperatures (as low as -20°F or lower). The action involved widespread closures of businesses—reports estimate hundreds (some sources say over 700 small businesses and institutions)—along with walkouts from work and school. Participants refused to engage in typical economic activity as part of a “no work, no school, no shopping” call.
The primary demand was “ICE out for good” (or variations like “ICE Out of Minnesota” and “ICE out everywhere”), calling for the removal of federal ICE agents from the state, an end to aggressive immigration enforcement raids, accountability for incidents involving ICE (including fatal shootings), and rejection of further funding for the agency. This stemmed from heightened federal operations under the Trump administration, including a surge of agents in the Twin Cities area, often referred to as “Operation Metro Surge.”
The strike echoed historical events like the 1934 Minneapolis general strike but was framed as a response to contemporary issues, including reported deaths of U.S. citizens during ICE encounters (e.g., Renée Good on January 7, 2026, and others mentioned in coverage). Organizers, including labor unions, faith groups (such as Faith in Minnesota), community coalitions, student groups from the University of Minnesota, and immigrant rights organizations, coordinated the effort. It drew comparisons to the 2006 “Day Without Immigrants” protests.
Media outlets like Reuters, The New York Times, The Guardian, Labor Notes, and local sources (KARE 11, Democracy Now!) covered the event, noting massive crowds, marches to federal buildings, and chants like “Shut it down” and “ICE out now!” Some described it as the first general strike in the U.S. in decades or even 80 years in the region.

The Headline’s Origin and Spread
The exact phrasing in the query appears to originate from viral social media posts starting around late January 2026. It gained traction through reposts and shares, often with calls for solidarity (“Raise your hand if you agree/support ✋”). While dramatic in claiming “the largest in 70 years,” estimates of participation (tens of thousands marching, widespread business closures) support it being a major mobilization, though exact comparisons to past strikes vary by source.
A follow-up national “economic blackout” or general strike was called for January 30, 2026 (today in the query’s context), building on Minnesota’s action. This included calls for no work, school, or shopping to protest ICE nationwide, with solidarity events in other cities. Some unions and groups expressed mixed support, noting challenges in sustaining broader participation due to economic impacts.
Significance and Reactions
This event highlights deep divisions over immigration policy, federal enforcement tactics, and the role of collective action in challenging them. Supporters view it as a powerful stand against perceived overreach and violence, emphasizing community defense and economic leverage. Critics question its scale, sustainability, or impact, with some businesses citing financial strain from closures.
The movement has inspired calls for expansion, with ongoing discussions about building infrastructure for future actions. Whether it marks a “turning point” depends on follow-through, but it has undeniably mobilized thousands in a rare display of coordinated resistance in extreme conditions. ✋