On Saturday, January 24, 2026, an estimated 1,000 participants gathered at the Agora Grand Event Center in Lewiston for the “Ice Them Out” rally, protesting a surge in federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in Maine. Demonstrators traveled from across the state, including elderly women who drove more than two hours to show their support.
“We love immigrants. That’s why we came, and we will give our money to help,” one elderly participant told Amjambo Africa.
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The event lasted about three hours, from 12:00 PM to 2:40 PM, as participants braved the cold to chant, hold signs, and listen to speeches.
Notable attendees included Portland Mayor Mark Dion and Lewiston Mayor Carl L. Sheline, as well as U.S. Senate candidate Graham Platner, gubernatorial candidates Hannah Pingree, Troy Jackson, and Shenna Bellows, and U.S. House District 2 candidates Matt Dunlap and Jordan Wood.
Safiya Khalid, founder and executive director of the Community Organizing Alliance (COA) and former Lewiston City Council member, opened the rally, highlighting the fear and uncertainty caused by federal enforcement actions, and urging solidarity in protecting immigrant communities.
Local authorities in Lewiston, Portland, and other cities reminded residents that protests must remain peaceful, emphasizing their responsibility to protect residents while respecting federal law.
This rally follows similar protests recently organized in Portland, reflecting ongoing community engagement on issues related to federal immigration enforcement in Maine.
