Protesters rally against ICE coming to Utah, want clarification on SLC policy

SALT LAKE CITY — Dozens of protesters braved the cold Tuesday night in Salt Lake City, marching through downtown streets to defend what they called a “People’s Policy” opposing cooperation with federal immigration authorities. Waving flags and holding handmade signs, the group chanted familiar refrains as they moved toward the scheduled Salt Lake City Council meeting. “Silence is compliance,” one group shouted as they marched near the Utah Capitol. “We are many, they are few, we have the opportunity to be on the right side of history," an organizer told KSL. With the capitol as background, protesters chanted, “Say it clear, say it clear, immigrants are welcome here.”

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No vote on agenda, but plenty of debate

Although no formal decision was scheduled, the role of Immigration and Customs Enforcement dominated public comment at the meeting. The discussion centered on whether Salt Lake City collaborates with ICE and whether the city might consider entering a 287(g) agreement — an arrangement that deputizes local police to act as federal immigration agents. City leaders reiterated that such an agreement is not on the table.

Public concerns after national tensions rise

Tuesday night's demonstration came one week after immigration tensions escalated nationwide and on the same day President Trump announced that, beginning February 1, his administration would halt payments to any sanctuary cities or states. In response, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall released a statement emphasizing the city’s current designation and priorities. She noted that Salt Lake City is a certified “Welcoming City,” but is not a sanctuary city, and that no discussions are underway to change that status. “While we cannot predict what may happen in the days and weeks ahead,” Mendenhall said, “my top priority is keeping all of our residents safe while also protecting the right we all have to speak out and peacefully demonstrate when we disagree with our government.”

Residents demand clarity

During public comment, residents urged the council to take a stronger stance against ICE involvement. “The City Council must use its legal authority to obstruct ICE locally and protect our community from unconstitutional action that is creating terror,” one speaker told the council.

City council reaffirms limited cooperation

Council members reiterated that while Salt Lake City will cooperate with ICE on matters directly tied to public safety, Salt Lake City police officers do not participate in federal immigration enforcement operations. The distinction appeared to be a key point of concern for both protesters on the street and speakers inside the chamber. As the meeting concluded, demonstrators said they planned to continue pressing city leaders for stronger protections for immigrant communities — especially as national policy shifts continue to unfold.

Related reading: How federal law enforcement is working with ICE in Utah and beyond

This story was adapted from a TV broadcast script using artificial intelligence. Every story, including those adapted with AI, is reviewed by a human editor before publication to ensure that KSL's editorial standards are upheld.

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