Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in Milan on Saturday to voice strong opposition to the deployment of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during the upcoming Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games. The protest, held in Piazza XXV Aprile—a square symbolically named for Italy's liberation from Nazi fascism in 1945—drew a diverse crowd including members of the left-leaning Democratic Party, the CGIL trade union confederation, and the ANPI organizations dedicated to preserving the memory of Italy's partisan resistance during World War II.
Protest Targets ICE Role and Broader Political Concerns
Organizers distributed plastic whistles to participants, who blew them loudly as music played from a van, creating a vibrant and vocal atmosphere. The demonstration was not solely focused on the practical role of ICE agents, who are set to be stationed in a control room rather than operating on the streets, but also addressed what many perceive as a rise of fascist tendencies in the United States. Banners displayed slogans such as "No thank you, from Minnesota to the world, at the side of anyone who fights for human rights," "Never again means never again for anyone," and "Ice only in Spritz," a playful reference to a popular Italian aperitif.
Political Backlash and Official Responses
The announcement of ICE agents' involvement has sparked significant backlash across Italy. Milan's mayor, Giuseppe Sala, has publicly stated that the agents are "not welcome" in the city. Additionally, Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi has been summoned to Parliament to provide testimony regarding the deployment this week, highlighting the political sensitivity of the issue.
Protesters' Personal Perspectives
Among the protesters, Silvana Grassi held a sign reading "Ice = Gestapo," expressing deep distress over reports of ICE agents' actions in the US, such as shootings in Minneapolis and the detention of children. "It makes me want to cry to think of it," Grassi said. "It's too terrible. How did they elect such a terrible, evil man?" Another participant, Paolo Bortoletto, acknowledged that the officers would have an investigative role rather than a street presence but emphasized, "We don't want them in our country. We are a peaceful country. We don't want fascists. It's their ideas that bother us."
Clarification on ICE Units and Security Roles
It is important to note that the ICE agents deployed to Milan are from Homeland Security Investigations, a unit focused on cross-border crimes, which frequently assists with security at international events like the Olympics. This differs from the Enforcement and Removal Operations arm, which is at the forefront of immigration crackdowns in the US and is not involved in the Milan deployment. Despite this distinction, protesters like Grassi maintained their stance, saying, "Even if it's not the same ones, we don't want them here."
Olympic Context and Political Attendance
The Winter Olympics are scheduled to begin on 6 February with an opening ceremony that will be attended by US Vice-President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, adding a layer of political significance to the event. This protest underscores the intersection of international sports, security protocols, and global political tensions, as activists use the platform to advocate for human rights and express solidarity with movements against perceived authoritarianism.
