Target Under Fire: Protests Erupt Across the U.S. Over Immigration Stance

Thu Feb 12 2026 14:59:24 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Activists across the country target Target stores this week, pressuring the retailer to publicly oppose a federal immigration crackdown in Minnesota. The protests come after recent deadly incidents involving ICE agents.

A coalition of activists, under the banner of ICE Out Minnesota, organized protests at over two dozen Target locations nationwide. They are calling on the retailer to take a stand against the federal immigration crackdown occurring in Minnesota, particularly following the recent deaths of individuals during ICE operations. Target's CEO, Michael Fiddelke, has expressed pain over community violence but has yet to publicly address the immigration issues directly. The protests not only highlight the activist's demands but also mark a larger shift in corporate social responsibility discussions.

NEW YORK – Activists across the U.S. organized protests at over two dozen Target stores this week, demanding that the retailers publicly oppose the federal immigration crackdown taking place in Minnesota.

The protests, led by a coalition called ICE Out Minnesota, aim to shed light on the recent incidents involving ICE agents that ended in the tragic deaths of two community members during anti-ICE demonstrations.

They claim to be part of the community, but they are not standing up to ICE, said Elan Axelbank, an activist involved in the Minneapolis protests. Activists have planned to continue the demonstrations at Target locations for a week, pushing the company for a commitment to deny federal agents entry unless they carry judicial warrants.

The protests also reflect a growing frustration with Target's perceived inaction amidst escalating violence related to immigration enforcement, especially considering the company’s deep roots in its Minneapolis home. CEO Michael Fiddelke acknowledged community pain after recent violence but has yet to take a clear stance on immigration issues.

Community leaders emphasize that these protests are not just about Target, but about broader immigrant rights and the safety of vulnerable members of society. As protests continue across many cities, the focus remains on how corporations respond to social justice issues in real time.