Neil Young’s Call to “Rise Up Peacefully”

Legendary musician Neil Young has published a strongly worded editorial on his website urging Americans to “rise up peacefully” in response to a deadly ICE agent shooting in Minneapolis and what he describes as broader political and social instability. He sharply criticizes President Donald Trump and members of his administration, claiming the United States is “a disaster” and accusing government officials of division and incompetence. Young called for nonviolent mass action by millions of people to address the nation’s problems and to protect democratic values.

Fatal ICE Shooting That Sparked Outcry

On January 7, 2026, 37-year-old Renee Nicole Good was fatally shot by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in south Minneapolis during an immigration enforcement operation. Videos and eyewitness accounts have offered conflicting narratives about what happened; federal officials claim the officer acted in self-defense, while critics and local leaders dispute that account and argue that she posed little threat when she was shot.

National Controversy & Legal Backlash

The killing has ignited nationwide protests and intense debate. A group of federal prosecutors in Minnesota resigned in protest over the Justice Department’s handling of the investigation, criticizing a lack of a civil-rights inquiry and the focus on Good’s alleged activities rather than the use of force. Good’s family has also hired a civil rights attorney, known for representing George Floyd’s family, to pursue accountability from federal authorities.

Public Reaction and Protests

The tragedy has not only drawn criticism from musicians like Neil Young and others but also sparked rallies and demonstrations across multiple U.S. cities. Thousands have protested against ICE and broader immigration policies, calling for justice and accountability in Good’s death