Protesters gather in south Omaha over nationwide ICE raids

OMAHA, Nebraska — Protesters are gathering in Omaha in response to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids occurring across the country.

The demonstration is taking place near 24th and L streets in south Omaha, where attendees are expressing their solidarity against the recent enforcement actions.

“It’s important to let people know that not all immigrants are criminals,” said organizer Samantha Jimenez. “We’re hard workers who take care of our kids.”

Hundreds of individuals participated in the protest, which lasted for over five hours, with many carrying signs and waving Mexican flags to showcase their heritage and support.

Jimenez mentioned that the gathering was initiated through a Facebook post encouraging people to come together at 4:30 p.m. on Monday.

“We all have to come together and be together during these difficult times,” said protester Damaris Hurtado Holguin. “It’s freedom of speech.”

While there have been no verified reports of ICE raids in Nebraska, the situation remains tense across the nation. ICE announced that more than 1,700 arrests were made on Monday and over 950 arrests occurred on Sunday nationwide.

In a statement, ICE indicated that these enforcement actions are necessary to “enforce immigration law, preserve public safety, and national security.” The agency asserts that while their operations primarily target national security threats, they acknowledge that collateral arrests can happen.

Furthermore, the immigration crackdown has implications beyond U.S. borders. The White House reported a collaboration with Colombia, where the Colombian government agreed to accept U.S. military deportation flights. This agreement came after a weekend discussion between President Donald Trump and Colombia’s president, during which both leaders considered implementing tariffs that are currently on hold.

Additionally, starting Monday, the administration has officially paused the admission of refugees, including those who had already received approval. This pause will remain in effect until the president determines that it is in the “interests of the United States” to resume refugee arrivals.