Hundreds Rally in Columbus Demanding Justice for Immigrant Communities and End to Fear-Driven Policies

Columbus Marchers Take to the Streets in Powerful Protest Against Nationwide ICE Raids

In a striking show of solidarity and defiance, hundreds of demonstrators flooded the streets of downtown Columbus on Tuesday evening to protest the nationwide immigration raids led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The demonstration echoed recent unrest in California and other parts of the country, where immigrant families have been caught in the crosshairs of aggressive deportation efforts.

Standing in Solidarity with Immigrant Families

The protest was a coordinated effort by a number of grassroots and nonprofit organizations that came together to voice their opposition to the federal government’s immigration tactics. The demonstration was peaceful but passionate, with chants, speeches, and a powerful march through city streets that demanded attention.

“We don’t want what is happening in California to also happen here,” said Deja Gaston, one of the lead organizers. Gaston, affiliated with the ANSWER Coalition and the Party for Socialism and Liberation, highlighted the pain inflicted on communities already living in fear of family separation and deportation.

Stories That Stirred the Crowd

Before the march began, several individuals took to the microphone to share deeply personal stories, shedding light on how immigration enforcement has impacted their lives. Their emotional testimonies sparked cheers, tears, and a renewed sense of unity among the crowd.

“It’s extremely troubling seeing the pain that these families are suffering,” said Shenby G, another event organizer and member of the Party for Socialism and Liberation. “We’re watching children being ripped away from their mothers. People are being deported without a chance to say goodbye. It’s inhumane.”

A Response to What Many See as a Humanitarian Crisis

The protest in Columbus was also a direct response to the events unfolding in Los Angeles, where large-scale demonstrations erupted following intensified immigration raids. Organizers described the situation in California as a “rightful uprising” against what they view as unjust, fear-based policies targeting immigrant communities.

“The uprising is a reflection of anger and frustration,” Gaston said. “People are tired of seeing their loved ones treated as criminals simply for trying to build a better life.”

Challenging Broader Policy Changes

While immigration enforcement was the main focus of the protest, speakers didn’t shy away from criticizing broader policies they believe prioritize the wealthy while cutting vital services for working-class Americans.

“Every bill being passed is like a handout to the rich and billionaires,” Gaston said. “Meanwhile, support systems that our communities depend on are being stripped away.”

Divided Opinions on National Policy

While protestors in Columbus and elsewhere have raised the alarm over what they see as anti-immigrant actions, some Republican lawmakers have publicly praised the current administration’s approach.

One top official remarked that the government is delivering on promises to stop what they refer to as an “invasion,” framing the mass deportation efforts as a historic and necessary action.

Still, protestors on the ground in cities like Columbus say such language only fuels fear, division, and violence — and they’re determined to fight back.

Organizers made it clear that Tuesday’s demonstration is just the beginning. They pledged to continue pushing for justice, community unity, and humane immigration reform.

“We won’t let fear-mongering win. We won’t let racism divide us,” said Shenby G. “We’re standing up not just for immigrants, but for the kind of country we all want to live in — one built on compassion, dignity, and equality.”

As chants echoed into the night and marchers held their signs high, the message from Columbus was unmistakably clear: this community will not be silent in the face of injustice. They will keep marching — for their families, their neighbors, and their future.