More than 650 voted: Readers split on joining the anti-ICE 'National Shutdown'

"Ahead of Friday's planned " National Shutdown," Boston.com asked readers whether they plan to take part in the anti-ICE call to action urging people to skip work, school, and shopping. The responses poured in - and they split sharply, revealingdisagreements on the effectiveness of protest tactics, the role of immigration enforcement, and what - if anything - actually invokes change. The call has spread online as anger grows over immigration enforcement activity in Minneapolis, including the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, fueling protests and intense scrutiny of federal agents' use of force."

"Locally, Mass 50501 and other local groups are planning an "ICE Out Everywhere" rally on Saturday, Jan. 31, on Boston Common. A separate event is also planned for Friday at 3:30 p.m. in Copley Square as part of the "National Shutdown." So, are readers joining Friday's "shutdown" - or going about their day as usual? Responses came in from over 650 readers, and were mostly split between those planning to join by skipping work (12%), school (5%), or shopping (31%) versus not participating (52%)."

"'I have to work to pay my bills,' one reader wrote. Others said they oppose the shutdown because they support law enforcement and ICE's role: 'ICE is enforcing federal law.' Those who support the 'National Shutdown' said they feel compelled to act - even in small ways - rather than watch events unfold from the sidelines."

A planned National Shutdown urged people to skip work, school, and shopping to protest ICE. Responses from over 650 people split: 12% planned to skip work, 5% school, 31% shopping, and 52% not participating. Supporters cited outrage over immigration enforcement and recent Minneapolis shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, saying small acts of protest matter. Opponents called the shutdown ineffective or political theater, said they could not afford to miss work or keep children home, or defended ICE as enforcing federal law. Local rallies on Boston Common and in Copley Square are planned.

Read at Boston.com