Hundreds of demonstrators took to the streets of Center City Philadelphia on Martin Luther King Jr. Day to voice their opposition against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids that have occurred nationwide. The march began at the Philadelphia Immigration Court located at 9th and Market streets at 11 a.m. on January 19 and ended at the ICE Philadelphia Field Office at 114 North 8th Street.
The protest drew a diverse crowd, including State Senator Art Haywood (D-4th District) and representatives from various interfaith religious groups, who collaborated to organize the rally. This event was part of a broader series of anti-ICE demonstrations across the country, ignited by the tragic shooting of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good by an ICE agent in Minneapolis on January 7, 2026.
In conjunction with the protests, Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner, along with other local officials, held a press conference on January 14, asserting their commitment to holding ICE accountable for any illegal actions. “This is ultimately about good versus evil,” Krasner remarked, emphasizing the moral implications of the situation. He reiterated that his office would take a firm stand against federal agents who breach the law, stating, “We will arrest you. We will handcuff you… and I’m going to do everything in my power to convict you.”
Krasner’s remarks underscored the authority of local officials to prosecute federal agents, reinforcing that such actions fall under the jurisdiction of the law, which prohibits unlawful conduct by federal officers. His statements were aimed not only at addressing the recent tragedy but also at asserting the principle that federal agents cannot act with impunity.
This gathering of activists in Philadelphia reflects a growing movement that seeks to address issues surrounding immigration enforcement and its impact on communities. The rally served as both a remembrance of Renee Nicole Good and a call to action for justice, advocating for the rights of those affected by ICE actions. As the movement continues to gain traction, it highlights the power of community organizing and the resolve to seek accountability and reform within the immigration system.