JERSEY CITY, NJ — Mayor James Solomon joined hundreds of residents, activists, and local leaders on Saturday as they marched through Jersey City’s Heights neighborhood demanding that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) cease operations within the city.

The rally began at Riverview-Fisk Park and continued along Central Avenue before concluding at Pershing Field Park, drawing a large crowd despite freezing temperatures. Protesters carried signs reading “ICE Out Now,” “No Human Is Illegal,” and “Justice for All,” while chanting in opposition to federal immigration enforcement actions that have recently occurred in Hudson County.

Mayor James Solomon joins ICE protest in Jersey City, NJ

Response to Recent ICE Activity

Organizers said the demonstration was prompted by recent immigration arrests that took place in and around Jersey City, including reports of individuals being detained in public areas. Advocates argue that such actions have created fear within immigrant communities, particularly among families with long-standing ties to the city.

Speakers at the rally emphasized that those impacted by recent enforcement efforts include working residents with no violent criminal history, fueling concerns that federal actions are disrupting everyday community life.

Mayor Reaffirms Sanctuary City Policy

Addressing the crowd, Mayor Solomon reiterated Jersey City’s status as a sanctuary city and reaffirmed that local law enforcement will not cooperate with ICE unless agents present a valid judicial warrant. He praised the turnout and framed the protest as a reflection of the city’s long history as an immigrant gateway.

“Jersey City was built by immigrants,” Solomon said in remarks shared publicly following the event. “Immigrants are our neighbors, and we stand up for our neighbors.”

City officials have maintained that municipal agencies do not assist with civil immigration enforcement and that local resources should not be used to support federal deportation efforts.

Council Leadership and Community Organizing

Jersey City Councilmember Jake Ephros played a central role in organizing the march and rally. Ephros has previously raised concerns about ICE presence in the city and has called for transparency when federal agents operate within local neighborhoods.

Community organizations, faith groups, and immigrant advocacy groups also participated, describing the rally as part of a broader effort to educate residents about their rights and to push back against what they view as aggressive federal enforcement tactics.

Ongoing Debate

While supporters of the rally argue that ICE actions undermine public trust and community safety, others maintain that federal immigration laws must be enforced. The issue continues to generate debate both locally and nationally, particularly as immigration remains a central political issue heading into the 2026 election cycle.

Organizers said Saturday’s march will not be the last, signaling that additional demonstrations and “know-your-rights” outreach events are planned in the coming weeks.

Sources

News 12 New Jersey

CBS News New York

NJ Spotlight News

Action Network event listings

Public statements from the Office of the Mayor of Jersey City