‘ICE Out’ protest grows in Wisconsin Rapids

WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. (WFHR / WIRI) – Thousands demonstrated in cities across the country on both Friday and Saturday for a national shutdown strike and to protest expanded ICE operations in cities like Minneapolis, and people in Wisconsin Rapids again joined the nationwide protests over the weekend.

On Saturday, citizens in Milan, Italy, protested U.S. ICE agents assisting with security at the Winter Olympics, reports NPR. U.S. agents usually participate in international events like the Olympics, however, Milan’s mayor and other Italian politicians are saying ICE agents are no longer welcome after the violence in Minneapolis.

Weekly protest saw increased numbers

In Wisconsin Rapids, more than 80 people stood along the East Riverview Expressway demonstrating their First Amendment rights to free speech and to peaceful assembly. That’s more than double the typical number of protesters gathering for a weekly protest.

Kate West is one of the organizers for the Rapids protest group.

“We are having a vigil in memory of Renee Good and Alex Pretti and then also for the 32 people who were killed In ICE detainment in 2025,” said West. “And we know of at least six others that were killed in 2026 so far.”

Wisconsin Rapids resident Kay Jackson read a statement to those gathered detailing her experience visiting the Alex Pretti memorial in Minneapolis shortly after he was killed.

“The mood was somber around the place where Alex’s body had lain just two days earlier, but candles, flowers, pictures drawn by children and a brass band playing “Lean on Me” reminded us that there is joy, beauty and bravery in the world,” Jackson said.

Organizer Kris Dauenhauer reminded those in attendance to treat passersbys with kindness. 

“Thank you for coming out today and remember our rules,” he said. “Do not engage with counter protestors and only nice responses. And if you want sing, sing to them or say, ‘have a nice day’.”