Community members gathered Friday night for a candlelight vigil to honor the life of Renee Good, a woman who was shot and killed by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. SOURCE: WSHV3Photo: WHSV3
Dozens of Harrisonburg residents gathered Friday night (January 9) at Court Square for a candlelight vigil honoring Renee Nicole Good, a 37-year-old woman who was fatally shot by an ICE agent in Minneapolis, as well as others who have lost their lives during immigration enforcement actions.
Organizers said the vigil was intended to be both a space for mourning and a call to action, highlighting the role immigrants play in Harrisonburg’s identity as the “Friendly City.” Attendees held candles, signs, and stood in silence as speakers shared messages of unity, compassion, and resistance to violence against immigrant communities.
Local activist Johann Zimmermann told the crowd the gathering was meant to remind residents that moments of injustice require collective response. He emphasized that violence against immigrants affects entire communities and that Harrisonburg’s strength lies in standing together when harm occurs.
Vice Mayor Dany Fleming also spoke at the vigil, encouraging continued advocacy and civic engagement. Fleming highlighted the city’s diversity and sense of solidarity, telling attendees that Harrisonburg’s values are rooted in caring for one another.
Fleming’s remarks came just days before an upcoming Harrisonburg City Council meeting, where council members are expected to vote on whether to send a letter to state and federal officials addressing the conduct of ICE in the city. While the vigil was not directly tied to the vote, organizers said the timing underscored the importance of local leaders taking a public stance.
Participants said the vigil’s message extended beyond Renee Good’s death, calling for accountability, humane treatment, and protection for all people who live and work in the United States, regardless of immigration status.
SOURCE: WHSV3