Fargo-Moorhead Businesses Close to Protest ICE Operation

Local businesses and activists rally against ICE's actions in Minnesota

Jan. 30, 2026 at 9:55pm

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Several businesses in the Fargo-Moorhead area have closed on Friday, January 30th to protest ICE's Operation Metro Surge in Minnesota. The 'ICE out' protest calls on people to stay home from work and school and avoid shopping to send a message against ICE's actions, which protesters describe as 'authoritarian attacks on our democracy' and 'ICE terror'.

Why it matters

The protest highlights growing concerns in the community about the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the desire for greater accountability and change. The closure of local businesses also demonstrates the willingness of the community to take economic action to voice their opposition.

The details

Businesses like Swing Barrel Brewing, Rustica Eatery and Tavern, and Wild Terra have announced their participation in the protest by closing for the day. Some, like Brew Bird, are staying open but donating a portion of sales to support immigrant families. Protesters are also gathering for a rally in Moorhead, Minnesota to show their support for the 'ICE out' demonstration.

  • The 'ICE out' protest is taking place on Friday, January 30th, 2026.

The players

Josh Kadrmas

A member of Indivisible Fargo-Moorhead who is participating in the 'ICE out' protest.

Swing Barrel Brewing

A local brewery that is closed in solidarity with the protest.

Rustica Eatery and Tavern

A local restaurant that is closed in solidarity with the protest.

Brew Bird

A local restaurant that is staying open but donating a portion of sales to support immigrant families.

Clay County DFL

The local Democratic-Farmer-Labor party organization that has called for a protest rally in Moorhead.

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What’s next

The Clay County DFL has called for a protest rally from 4:00 to 5:30 PM on Friday, January 30th at 8th Street and 24th Avenue South in Moorhead in support of the 'ICE out' demonstration.

The takeaway

This protest highlights the growing grassroots opposition to ICE's actions in the Fargo-Moorhead community, with local businesses and activists taking economic and political action to voice their concerns and demand accountability. The willingness of the community to disrupt normal activities to make their voices heard underscores the depth of feeling on this issue.