02/20/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 20, 2026
Community Group to Host "ICE OUT NOW!!" Event at Altoona Police Department
Altoona, WI — On Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., advocates will gather outside the Altoona Police Department for a demonstration titled “ICE OUT NOW.” The event calls on the Altoona Police Department and the Eau Claire Sheriff’s Department to prioritize the safety and well-being of local residents rather than collaborating with federal immigration enforcement agencies. In response to the recent arrests of four local community members, which have impacted not only multiple families but also many others throughout the surrounding region, the organizers are demanding details about the nature of the advance notice that federal officers used to notify the Eau Claire Sheriff’s department as well as body cam footage from the officers on the scene.
Led by a coalition of the agencies, groups, and representatives of the community’s most affected groups, including Latinos, Hmong, BIPOC, and allies, the organizers emphasize that local law enforcement agencies exist to serve and protect the communities in which they operate. They argue that cooperation with federal immigration officers erodes trust, discourages residents from reporting crimes, and undermines public safety for everyone.
“Our message is simple,” said a spokesperson on behalf of the organizing groups. “Local law enforcement should be focused on protecting local community members. They work for us—not ICE. Public safety depends on trust, and that trust is compromised when local public safety agencies are seen to be actively assisting federal immigration enforcement officers. Given the lack of dignity and the dehumanization that immigration officers and federal agencies have demonstrated across the country toward law-abiding community members, we cannot allow these unaccountable and undertrained federal agents anywhere near our community.”
The group’s demands include:
Eau Claire sheriff’s department response to public records request and specific release of information around when and how ICE notified them, who made the decision to collaborate with ICE, as well as body cam footage from officers on scene
Altoona Police department response to public records request and specific release of information around when and how ICE notified them, who made the decision to collaborate with ICE, as well as body cam footage from officers on scene
Public statement from both the EC Sheriff office and Altoona PD correcting false statements and the narrative that were published on the news stories after the event, accountability and apology for working with ICE after explicitly stating they wouldn’t and what will be done internally to ensure it doesn’t happen again
Immediate release of anyone detained who wasn’t taken with a valid warrant signed by a judge, and proof of warrant for anyone who was
All ICE officers and immigration agents immediately and permanently out of Eau Claire County.
The “ICE OUT NOW” event is a non-violent demonstration that will feature local community speakers and residents who will share stories and perspectives about maintaining clear boundaries between local policing and federal immigration enforcement.
Organizers emphasize that this civic demonstration will be peaceful and focused on community solidarity.
Community members, local leaders, and members of the press are invited to attend and participate in this demonstration. The organizers ask that participants come prepared for the weather, respect all event guidelines, and engage passionately but safely.
Event Details:
What: “ICE OUT NOW” Community Action
When: Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.
Where: Altoona Police Department, 1904 Spooner Ave, Altoona, WI 54720
On behalf of the Organizing Coalition
# # #
