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Columbia Protest Erupts Over Planned ICE Office

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 19:31 GMT by Fox Carolina
      Locale: South Carolina, UNITED STATES

Columbia, S.C. - February 14th, 2026 - Tensions remain high in Columbia as a demonstration took place Friday afternoon, February 13th, 2026, against the planned construction of a new Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) office. The protest, held near the proposed building site, drew a diverse crowd of activists expressing deep concerns about the potential impact on the local community and, crucially, the city's significant immigrant population.

For months, the proposal to establish a larger ICE presence in Columbia has been a source of friction, igniting passionate debate amongst residents, community organizations, and local government officials. Friday's demonstration represents the latest, and most visible, expression of opposition. While organizers claim a broad coalition of groups participated, including local chapters of immigrant rights organizations like 'Puente' and established civil rights groups, the exact number of attendees remains unconfirmed, estimated by police to be around 200-250.

"We're here to say that Columbia doesn't want ICE here," declared one protester, speaking to FOX Carolina. "This isn't about being against law enforcement; it's about protecting our community and the people who live here." This sentiment highlights a key argument consistently voiced by opponents: the fear that an expanded ICE presence will erode trust between the immigrant community and vital public services, like healthcare and education. Concerns center around the potential for increased deportations, family separations, and the chilling effect on reporting crimes for fear of immigration status being questioned.

The protest featured a variety of signs and banners, visually amplifying the message of resistance. Common slogans included 'No ICE in Columbia' and 'Protect Our Neighbors,' alongside more pointed criticisms of ICE's policies and practices. Several speakers addressed the crowd, sharing personal stories of individuals and families impacted by deportation and emphasizing the cultural and economic contributions of immigrants to Columbia's vibrant landscape.

However, the demonstration wasn't entirely one-sided. A smaller contingent of counter-protesters, numbering around 30-40, also appeared on scene, voicing their support for the new ICE office. These individuals, largely affiliated with groups advocating for stricter border control and enhanced law enforcement, argued that the office is essential for maintaining public safety and enforcing federal immigration laws. They carried signs supporting ICE and emphasizing the importance of national security. This counter-demonstration, while smaller, underscored the deeply polarized nature of the debate.

Columbia Police Department officers maintained a visible presence throughout the protest, working to ensure a peaceful and orderly demonstration. According to police reports released Friday evening, no arrests were made, and there were no reports of significant incidents or violence. However, tensions were palpable, and officers remained on high alert to prevent any escalation.

The roots of the controversy extend back to a late 2025 announcement by ICE regarding its intention to consolidate several regional offices and establish a new, larger facility in Columbia. ICE officials maintain that the move is a logistical decision, aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency. They also emphasize the agency's commitment to enforcing immigration laws fairly and humanely. However, critics remain skeptical, pointing to a documented increase in ICE enforcement activity nationwide in recent years and concerns about the agency's practices, including detention conditions and due process protections.

The debate has spilled over into local politics, with the Columbia City Council holding several public hearings on the matter. While the Council ultimately approved the necessary zoning changes for the ICE office construction, the decision was met with significant opposition, including a petition signed by thousands of residents. The Council's arguments for approval focused on potential economic benefits--job creation during construction and a potential increase in local spending--but these arguments have failed to quell the concerns of many residents.

Looking ahead, further protests are expected as construction progresses. Local activist groups are already planning a series of community forums and educational events to raise awareness about the potential impacts of the ICE office and to mobilize opposition. The situation remains fluid, and the debate over ICE's presence in Columbia is likely to continue for the foreseeable future. The long-term effects on the city's social fabric and immigrant community remain to be seen.