On January 10, 2026, hundreds of demonstrators congregated in downtown Chico, California, to protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The protest was organized by Indivisible Chico, a local activist group, in response to the killing of Renee Nichole Goode by an ICE agent in Minnesota on January 7. This event was part of a nationwide call to action initiated by the national Indivisible organization.
Mobilization and Community Support
Cody Borders, one of the organizers from Indivisible Chico, explained that the protest was organized on short notice after receiving a request from the national group to mobilize local efforts. “They asked us to put something together to bring people together, and that was on Thursday,” he said. The response exceeded expectations, with Borders noting that the turnout was “probably five or six times bigger than was expected.”
The gathering began at the Children’s Park and moved along The Esplanade, drawing attention from passersby, including those at the iconic Bidwell Mansion. Various local organizations joined the protest, including NorCal Resist, the Resisters, and the Chico Peace Alliance. Additionally, Food Not Bombs, a local nonprofit, provided free meals to attendees, showcasing community solidarity.
Cece Canady, a student at Chico State studying food and nutrition sciences, expressed her support for the protest. “We just saw that there was a protest, which means there’s a need we were going to come and support the way that we could,” Canady stated. They prepared meals, including creamy kale and potato soup, to distribute to those in attendance.
Voices of Protest
As the crowd grew, many participants felt compelled to voice their concerns. Julie Hendrickson, one of the protestors, held a megaphone and amplified the messages of those around her. “Renee Nichole Goode was murdered, unreasonably and unconstitutionally. This is the least I can do to support her and her family, and our democracy,” she declared. Hendrickson emphasized the importance of giving everyone a chance to be heard.
Throughout the protest, the atmosphere was charged with energy. Attendees chanted slogans while some played music, fostering a sense of unity. Lyndell Ellingson, who brought her guitar, remarked on the power of music to create a positive environment amid anger. “It creates a sort of center of space that we can all work towards and be together in,” she noted.
This protest was among the largest Hendrickson had attended. Janice Kalman, another participant, echoed this sentiment, saying, “I think as this era, of Trump’s fascism and corruption, has evolved, a lot of us are saying, ‘OK, when is the point?’” She reflected on the need for citizens to stand up and protect democratic principles.
The gathering in Chico, driven by a tragic event and a call for justice, demonstrates the power of grassroots activism and community engagement. As the crowd dispersed, the impact of their collective voice and solidarity was palpable, signaling a continued commitment to advocacy and change.
