Renee Good’s Death Ignites Calls to Abolish

A federal agent’s lethal force against a civilian in Minneapolis ignites nationwide protests, echoing past tragedies.

Story Highlights

  • Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother, was fatally shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis.
  • The incident has sparked large-scale mobilization reminiscent of post-George Floyd protests.
  • Vigils and protests are taking place across multiple states, demanding justice and limits on ICE operations.
  • Local officials and community groups are calling for ICE to be expelled from Minneapolis.

Federal Agent’s Use of Lethal Force Sparks Outrage

On the morning of January 7, 2026, Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old mother and poet, was shot and killed by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. The city, already marked by the George Floyd tragedy, witnessed immediate protests and vigils. The community, including civil rights organizations and local officials, gathered in south Minneapolis and at the Minnesota Capitol to honor Good and demand accountability. This event has triggered a large-scale mobilization, with many comparing its scale to the protests following Floyd’s murder.

The city of Minneapolis has become a focal point for debates on policing and immigration enforcement. The killing of Good by a federal agent has intensified these discussions, raising questions about federal accountability and jurisdiction. Mayor Jacob Frey, along with other local officials, has voiced strong opposition to ICE’s presence, aligning with protesters’ demands to remove ICE from the city. This sentiment is echoed by many community leaders who are calling for an end to aggressive federal enforcement tactics in urban areas.

Community Response and Nationwide Mobilization

The response to Good’s death has been swift and widespread. Vigils and protests have occurred not only in Minneapolis but also in states like Michigan and Missouri. These gatherings underscore the national resonance of the incident, bringing together diverse groups demanding justice. The vigils serve as both mourning spaces and organizing hubs, with strong emotional rhetoric about combating the perceived forces of evil and cruelty with love and unity. Demonstrations have also taken place at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building, where tensions have escalated between protesters and ICE agents.

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Faith leaders and political figures have joined community members in condemning the shooting. A multi-faith vigil at the Minnesota Capitol featured clergy from diverse traditions, emphasizing justice, nonviolence, and unity. The rhetoric at these events has been pointed, with repeated calls for justice for Good and her family. This tragedy has become a catalyst for renewed calls to abolish ICE, with many viewing it as a symbol of broader systemic issues in law enforcement and immigration policy.

Long-Term Implications and Calls for Change

The killing of Renee Nicole Good has not only reignited debates on ICE’s role in urban areas but also placed significant pressure on local officials to reconsider cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Discussions are underway about potential policy changes, including formal non-cooperation agreements between Minneapolis and ICE, as well as state-level legislation to limit federal enforcement actions. The incident has further strained federal-local relationships, with DHS facing legitimacy challenges in progressive cities.

As the situation continues to develop, the call for justice remains at the forefront. Community leaders, activists, and local officials are united in their demand for accountability and systemic change. The response to Good’s death highlights the ongoing struggle for civil rights and the need for comprehensive reforms in law enforcement and immigration policies. Whether these protests will lead to lasting change remains to be seen, but the message is clear: the community is determined to act for justice.

Sources:

Vigil honoring Renee Good draws community support in Ann Arbor
Minneapolis to ICE: Get the Fuck Out!
People gather at vigil to mourn Renee Good, woman shot and killed by ICE agent
Mother identifies woman shot, killed by ICE agent