Wisconsin Immigrants and Allies Rally to Demand ICE Out and Rights Up on 20th Anniversary of 'La Gran Marcha'

On May Day, a day historically tied to labor rights, Milwaukee became ground zero for a powerful immigrant rights rally marking 20 years since the first national “Day Without Immigrants” protest. Hundreds gathered at Voces de la Frontera’s headquarters before marching to the federal courthouse, uniting immigrant and worker struggles against the ongoing abuses by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Since 2006, May Day has doubled as a day to highlight immigrants’ indispensable role in the economy and society—this year’s rally made clear that the fight is far from over. Demonstrators called for an end to Wisconsin’s local law enforcement cooperation with ICE under section 287(g), demanded ICE be removed from courts, schools, and communities, and pressed for the closure of the ICE detention facility on Milwaukee’s Northwest side.

Youth leaders from YES (Youth Empowered in the Struggle), the youth arm of Voces de la Frontera, emphasized unity amid a politically divided country. Melanie Leyva, statewide college organizer, said the movement’s strength lies in coming together to demand justice and representation for those directly impacted by immigration enforcement. Fellow youth activist Ian Fournier highlighted the importance of giving voice to families facing imprisonment, deportation, and community disruption.

Longtime immigrant rights advocate Jorge Torres condemned the Trump administration’s racist policies and escalating persecution of undocumented immigrants. “The discrimination has become much more radicalized,” Torres said, underscoring how the administration’s actions have deepened fear and division.

Christine Neumann-Ortiz, executive director of Voces de la Frontera, framed the rally as a demonstration of economic and political power. She called for resources to be redirected from immigrant persecution and billionaire enrichment to supporting working people instead. With the Latino vote increasingly decisive in swing states like Wisconsin, Voces’ relational organizing effort Voceros por el Voto has grown to 41,000 statewide—an electoral force demanding recognition and respect.

As the midterms approach, this rally serves as a stark reminder that immigrant rights are central to the broader fight for democracy and justice. The movement’s message is clear: ICE’s abuses must end, families must be reunited, and immigrants must be fully included in America’s political and economic future.