A large and peaceful demonstration formed in Midtown Manhattan around 1 p.m., beginning at the intersection of 60th Street and Fifth Avenue and quickly growing into one of the city’s most visible protest actions in recent days. Thousands of people gathered near the southeast corner of Central Park before moving south along Fifth Avenue, creating a sustained march through some of Manhattan’s busiest corridors.
The crowd reflected a wide range of participants, including families, longtime activists, first-time protesters, and older New Yorkers. Among those in attendance were New York City Comptroller Brad Lander, Council Member Alexa Avilés, and NYC Public Advocate Jumaane D. Williams, who marched alongside demonstrators. Several religious leaders were also present during the event.
As the march progressed down Fifth Avenue, participants carried handmade signs, flags, whistles, and drums. Many signs and chants focused on opposition to federal immigration enforcement practices led by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Others addressed broader federal policies associated with Donald Trump, including opposition to authoritarian leadership, the use of state violence, and U.S. military actions abroad.
The demonstration followed the killing of Renee Nicole Good, who was shot and killed earlier in the week by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. Her death was referenced throughout the march on signs and in conversations among participants. Protesters called for accountability and demanded an end to aggressive federal policing tactics, framing the issue as part of a broader struggle over civil rights, public safety, and democratic accountability.
The protest highlighted ongoing opposition to ICE enforcement practices and federal policies, while underscoring the continued role of public demonstrations in shaping civic dialogue in New York City.
