Austin Joins Nationwide ICE Protests With Downtown March

About one thousand protesters marched on Congress Avenue on Friday, Jan 30, 2026 as part of a nationwide protest against actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Hundreds gathered at a protest at the Texas Capitol as part of the nationwide demonstration.

Protesters gathered outside the Omni Austin Hotel during the march. Speakers gathered at the hotel to protest Capital Factory.

Andrea Baca, whose parents are immigrants from Mexico, said, "If my parents were to be deported, I'd probably be homeless."

A protester held up a sign for Alex Pretti at the Texas Capitol.

Misael Ramos, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America Austin chapter, spoke at the protest.

Scott Gibberson said about attending the protest: "I'm a grandpa and I want the same U.S.A. that I grew up in for my grandkids. It's not perfect, but we try to do the right thing."

Violet Wroblewski said about the John Lennon lyrics on her sign: "I think what he says should really be taken to heart because, what could happen if everyone lived in peace?"

Erica Hoffman, Young Active Labor Leaders co-chair and Education Austin union member, spoke at the protest.

An anti-immigration enforcement sign was left on the sidewalk during the march through downtown Austin.

Sarah Williamson, holding a sign for Alex Pretti, said about attending the protest: "I'm not sure what else I can do."

Texas State Troopers lined up outside the Texas Capitol in preparation for the protest.

After being joined by hundreds of protesters that marched from The University of Texas at Austin, hundreds became over one thousand protesters that then marched through Downtown Austin.

See the photos from the protest.