Local demonstrations are scheduled in both Merrimack and Burlington on Thursday, as residents voice their concerns over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities and a recent incident linked to the agency.

In Merrimack, activists are set to rally outside Town Hall, starting at 5 p.m. and continuing until 9 p.m. This protest, organized under the banner ICE Out of Merrimack, aims to address rumors about a potential ICE facility in the town, despite local officials stating they have no confirmed plans for such a development. The town’s council meeting, which begins at 7 p.m., may allow attendees to discuss the issue, even though it is not a scheduled topic. Following these concerns, local authorities have announced the early closure of Town Hall for the day, anticipating heavy traffic due to the protest. Attendees are encouraged to carpool and consider parking at the nearby elementary school to mitigate congestion.

Meanwhile, Burlington is set to witness its own rally at City Hall at 6 p.m., spurred by the recent fatal shooting of a woman by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. Protesters intend to demonstrate against ICE’s presence in Vermont, calling for an end to the agency’s operations. The event also highlights local sentiments regarding the agency’s expanded budget and the establishment of a data center in Williston, which opponents claim disproportionately targets community members who oppose ICE actions. Following the gathering, marchers plan to head to the federal courthouse, which has reportedly seen more deportation proceedings.

The events in both towns reflect growing tensions surrounding ICE’s role in local communities and the federal agency’s perceived overreach. In Merrimack, officials emphasize their lack of information on the alleged facility, stating that inquiries to state and federal representatives returned no insights. Meanwhile, Burlington residents are responding to national events, demanding accountability and a reevaluation of ICE’s impact on local populations.