‘Free America Walkout’ in Pasadena (File Photo – Staff)
Activists are calling for a nationwide general strike on Friday, Jan. 30, 2026, urging people across the United States to stop working, attending school, and spending money in protest of Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids.
By News Desk
The call to action, promoted through the website NationalShutdown.org and across Instagram and Facebook, centers on an “ICE Out” theme and asks supporters to disrupt everyday economic activity for one day as a form of protest.
Organizers say participation is not limited to those who can physically walk off the job or attend demonstrations. Instead, they outline a range of financial, digital, and logistical actions intended to make the nationwide shutdown accessible to a broad audience.
Financial and consumer actions
Supporters are encouraged to avoid unnecessary spending on Jan. 30 and to boycott major retailers and large corporations that do not support the action. If purchases are unavoidable, organizers recommend buying essentials from small, local businesses.
Additional suggested actions include donating to strike funds to support workers who lose income, canceling or pausing subscriptions to non-supportive companies, contributing to mutual aid organizations that provide food or resources, and using cash rather than credit cards for necessary purchases.
Digital and political advocacy
For those unable to strike in person, organizers emphasize political engagement and online advocacy. Suggested actions include calling congressional representatives to demand an end to funding for DHS and ICE, using the platform 5Calls.org to contact elected officials, and submitting letters to local newspaper editors.
Participants are also encouraged to change their social media profile pictures in solidarity, share educational content explaining the strike, sign petitions, and engage in online discussions and comment sections to raise awareness.
Logistical and local support
Organizers also highlight practical, community-based support. Suggested actions include offering rides to and from picket lines, providing childcare for those attending protests, and bringing food or drinks—such as coffee or hot cocoa—to strikers.
Other options include joining a picket line for one or two hours, displaying signs in windows, and connecting with local immigration defense funds or activist groups.
Workplace preparation
For workers who cannot fully walk out, organizers suggest using sick or vacation time on Jan. 30 when possible and discussing the issues with coworkers in advance. Planning ahead by securing prescriptions, food, and other necessities before the strike is also recommended, along with identifying community fridges or food pantries to support local needs.
Organizers say the goal of these actions is to ensure that anyone, regardless of their ability to stop working or attend protests in person, can participate in the Jan. 30 nationwide strike.
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