Organizers say that around 400 people gathered outside the Sioux Center Public Library on Monday evening (February 2) for a peaceful pro-immigrant rally, held ahead of the Sioux County Democratic caucus.
The rally came amid heightened national attention on immigration enforcement following recent events in Minneapolis, where two U.S. citizens — Renée Good and Alex Pretti — were killed during federal immigration operations. Those deaths have sparked demonstrations and calls for greater accountability for federal agents across the country.
Organizers said the Sioux Center rally was meant to show support for immigrants living in Sioux County and to highlight concerns about national immigration policies.
One of the rally participants, Sanneke Kok, said she felt compelled to attend because of her own background.
Kok said she wanted to use her voice to stand alongside friends and neighbors who may feel vulnerable.
Another participant, Jason Lief, said he attended because of his close connections to immigrant neighbors.
Rally organizer Celia Bahena said she helped organize the event to support friends and family members who are immigrants, noting that she has close personal ties to the immigrant community and family members who have been directly affected by immigration issues.
Another rally participant, Cambria Kaltwasser, said the event was about showing care for neighbors.
Northwestern College student Lilia Twaddle said she felt a responsibility to attend.
Organizers emphasized peaceful conduct, asking participants to stay on the sidewalk, avoid blocking entrances, and cooperate with law enforcement — guidelines that were followed throughout the rally.
After the speeches, participants lined the sidewalk along Highway 75, continuing to hold up their signs and chant their message off and on. “No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here.”
