Hundreds of protesters took to the streets in Park City, Utah, during the Sundance Film Festival, condemning Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for its actions following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis. The demonstration marked a significant escalation of the politicized atmosphere at this year's festival.
The march, which saw protesters chanting anti-ICE slogans such as "Shoot films, not people," was a call to action against what organizers described as ICE's authoritarian policies. As the crowd gathered, one volunteer emphasized the importance of sustained resistance in combating the perceived slide towards authoritarianism in the US.
The protest coincided with various events being held at Sundance, including screenings and industry gatherings that took place just down the street. A moment of silence was observed to honor those who have been killed or abused by ICE over the years. Demonstrators also chanted slogans such as "Abolish ICE" and "No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here," urging attendees to take action.
Filmmakers and actors have also used their platforms to speak out against ICE's actions. Activist Jes Vesconte, a filmmaker who came of age in Los Angeles, told Variety that artists play a crucial role in imagining alternative worlds and promoting social change. "They are going after our neighbors — our storytellers," Vesconte said.
The protest was part of a growing national backlash against ICE's deployment in Minnesota, which has been widely criticized as an overreach of federal authority. Several high-profile actors and filmmakers have used the festival as a platform to criticize Trump administration policies on immigration. Natalie Portman, Olivia Wilde, Will Poulter, Zoey Deutch, and Molly Ringwald were among those who spoke out against ICE's actions.
As the Sundance Film Festival continues, it remains to be seen how the event will continue to navigate its role in promoting artistic expression while also addressing issues of social justice.
The march, which saw protesters chanting anti-ICE slogans such as "Shoot films, not people," was a call to action against what organizers described as ICE's authoritarian policies. As the crowd gathered, one volunteer emphasized the importance of sustained resistance in combating the perceived slide towards authoritarianism in the US.
The protest coincided with various events being held at Sundance, including screenings and industry gatherings that took place just down the street. A moment of silence was observed to honor those who have been killed or abused by ICE over the years. Demonstrators also chanted slogans such as "Abolish ICE" and "No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here," urging attendees to take action.
Filmmakers and actors have also used their platforms to speak out against ICE's actions. Activist Jes Vesconte, a filmmaker who came of age in Los Angeles, told Variety that artists play a crucial role in imagining alternative worlds and promoting social change. "They are going after our neighbors — our storytellers," Vesconte said.
The protest was part of a growing national backlash against ICE's deployment in Minnesota, which has been widely criticized as an overreach of federal authority. Several high-profile actors and filmmakers have used the festival as a platform to criticize Trump administration policies on immigration. Natalie Portman, Olivia Wilde, Will Poulter, Zoey Deutch, and Molly Ringwald were among those who spoke out against ICE's actions.
As the Sundance Film Festival continues, it remains to be seen how the event will continue to navigate its role in promoting artistic expression while also addressing issues of social justice.
. I mean, who needs that kind of fear and trauma in their lives? Artists have a big platform here and they're using it to spread love and acceptance 
. It's all about imagining alternative worlds and promoting change. We need more people like Natalie Portman and Olivia Wilde speaking out against injustice 
. The fact that we're even having this conversation says a lot about how messed up things have gotten in the US. Can't we just say "no hate, no fear" and welcome everyone with open arms? 
It's time for us to come together and demand better 
.
! I'm all for using art as a platform for change, and it's amazing to see so many creatives speaking out against ICE's actions 
.
. It's all about amplifying marginalized voices and creating a safer space for everyone 
. I do hope the festival organizers keep pushing for more inclusive discussions and actions 
– after all, art is meant to challenge our perspectives and spark conversations! 
just saw that there was a huge protest at Sundance about ICE, and it makes me so worried 
like what if it escalates into something more? Hundreds of people taking to the streets in Park City, Utah... it's crazy 
I mean, I get why they're upset, but can't we just try to find other ways to address these issues without resorting to protests and demonstrations all the time? 
natie portman and olivia wilde using their platform for good, it's amazing 
but at the same time, it's scary to see how much hate there is out there for certain groups of people 
It's like, the right people are speaking out against ICE and their awful policies 
. Artists are so powerful, you know? They can inspire change and make us think differently 
Jes Vesconte makes so much sense about artists having the power to imagine alternative worlds and promote change 
are a powerful rebuke to ICE's authoritarian policies, which have been widely criticized for their disproportionate impact on marginalized communities.
... I mean, what's next? They're taking out their frustrations on innocent civilians during a festival for art and self-expression? It's like, can't they just chill for one second? But seriously, all these protests are needed because ICE is basically creating an enemy within our own country. We need to stand up for what's right, even if it means standing up against our own government 
meanwhile these filmmakers and actors are using their platforms to spread love and acceptance for all immigrants it's amazing to see the power of art in bringing people together 
i'm loving this vibe of resilience and solidarity with the protesters at sundance 
. Can't we just find a way to peacefully talk about these issues without resorting to that? 