Protest Against ICE Violence
More than 300 people gathered outside Dallas City Hall Tuesday evening — the anniversary of President Donald Trump’s inauguration — to protest violence involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers across the country.
Shortly after 6 p.m., attendees of all ages stood around the entrance to City Hall, repeating chants of “Donald Trump let’s be clear, immigrants are welcome here” and “Unite and fight for immigrant rights.” Others milled around tables offering tips and resources for what to do if ICE officers are spotted in the community.
The Purpose of the Protest
Multiple speakers emphasized that they hope protests will give community members the opportunity to connect with people who are in positions to provide support and make change happen.
“I think that it’s reasonable and appropriate to express disapproval,” said Pete Glaze of Dallas. “I also think it’s good to have something to point towards. Reminding people of our shared humanity during a time of dehumanization is something I feel is very important.”
Artistic Expression
Glaze and another artist, who goes by Monty Monster Slayer, held a painting that read “Baby Jesus was an asylum seeker.” Both said it took about two days to create the acrylic piece — made specifically for the protest — after Glaze came up with the concept.
Artists Monty Monster Slayer (left) and Pete Glaze stand with their hand-painted artwork during a protest in opposition to President Donald Trump’s policies, Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026, in downtown Dallas. Both artists said the piece took about two days to complete and was made specifically for the protest.
Elías Valverde II / Staff Photographer
Demands for Justice
Organizers also called for the arrest of Jonathan Ross, the agent who reportedly fatally shot Good.
“If we don’t get it, shut them down,” the crowd replied.
Protests Across the Country
Similar protests condemning ICE erupted in response to the killing of 37-year-old Renee Nicole Macklin Good on Jan. 7 during an immigration operation in Minnesota.
The day after Good’s death, federal immigration officers shot and wounded two people in Oregon.
“What’s happening is so unfair, and we’re here to remember Renee Nicole Good and many others who were murdered by people who are in our streets causing fear and intimidation,” Azael Alvarez with El Movimiento DFW said Tuesday as he addressed the crowd. “We are everywhere,” he continued, listing different areas of Dallas.
Previous Protests
The rally follows another Dallas protest on Jan. 8, when more than 400 people joined organizers in demanding greater oversight for the agency.
“It could’ve been anyone,” Elise Damara with the National Alliance Against Racism and Political Oppression said of Good’s death.
Trump and others in his administration have characterized the shooting as an act of self-defense, suggesting Good used her vehicle as a weapon. But Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey said video of the incident shows the argument to be “garbage.”
Conclusion
The protest in Dallas is just one example of the growing movement against ICE violence and the Trump administration’s immigration policies. As the debate continues, it is essential to remember the human cost of these policies and the importance of standing up for what is right.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What was the protest in Dallas about?
A: The protest in Dallas was against the violence involving Immigration and Customs
