Activist organizations are calling for a nationwide economic “shutdown” on Friday, urging Americans to stay home from work and school and to avoid shopping as part of a coordinated protest targeting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The planned action, referred to by organizers as a “National Shutdown,” is being promoted as a form of economic pressure against the federal government following recent ICE activity and several controversial encounters involving federal agents.
According to organizers, participants are being encouraged to pause daily life for one day in an effort to draw national attention to immigration enforcement policies under President Donald Trump.
Protests Intensify in Minnesota
Momentum for the shutdown has been strongest in Minnesota, particularly in the Twin Cities, where a number of businesses closed last week amid demonstrations opposing ICE operations in the Minneapolis area.
The protests escalated after the fatal shooting of a 37-year-old intensive care unit nurse during a federal law-enforcement encounter. Activist leaders have linked that incident — along with other officer-involved shootings nationwide — to their broader opposition to deportation enforcement.
Organizers claim the individuals killed were exercising their right to protest immigration policies. Federal authorities have not publicly endorsed that characterization and continue to review the incidents.
Student Groups and National Activists Join In
Several University of Minnesota-affiliated organizations have formally endorsed Friday’s shutdown, including cultural student associations and labor groups. National protest networks have also signed on, helping spread the campaign beyond the Midwest.
One of the groups backing the effort has played a visible role in multiple protests since President Trump returned to office, particularly around immigration enforcement and federal authority.
The event’s official website lists hundreds of supporting organizations across the country, signaling a coordinated attempt to generate widespread participation.
Celebrity Support and Business Closures
A number of entertainers and public figures have promoted the shutdown on social media, encouraging followers to take part in what organizers describe as a general strike.
In several progressive-leaning cities, some business owners have announced voluntary one-day closures in solidarity with the protests. Restaurants and retail shops in Denver were among those confirming temporary shutdowns.
Supporters of the move argue it is a symbolic stand, while critics say such closures primarily harm workers and local economies rather than federal agencies.
More Anti-Trump Protests Planned
In addition to Friday’s action, organizers have announced another round of nationwide demonstrations scheduled for late March under the banner of so-called “No Kings” protests.
Those rallies are being framed as opposition to what activists describe as authoritarian governing under President Trump, particularly in response to his administration’s immigration crackdown.
Protest leaders are predicting massive turnout, though similar projections in past demonstrations have often fallen short, according to independent estimates.
ICE Operations Shift in Key States
As protests expand, federal officials have signaled potential adjustments to enforcement operations in certain areas.
Border enforcement chief Tom Homan said the administration may consider reducing ICE presence in Minneapolis — but only if state and local officials demonstrate cooperation with federal authorities.
In Maine, Republican Sen. Susan Collins announced that enhanced ICE operations in her state have ended following discussions with Homeland Security leadership. More than 100 arrests were made during the enforcement surge.
Collins said there are no large-scale ICE operations currently underway or scheduled in the state, noting that she has pressed federal officials to rethink their strategy.
Trump Administration Stands Firm
Despite localized adjustments, the Trump administration has made clear that immigration enforcement remains a core priority and that federal policy will not be dictated by protests or economic disruptions.
As Friday’s planned shutdown approaches, Americans once again find themselves divided — with activist groups pushing economic resistance while the administration emphasizes law enforcement, border security, and public order.