A tense confrontation erupted at a Minneapolis yoga studio last weekend, as a group of women demanded a public statement regarding federal immigration enforcement actions. The scene, captured on video, revealed a heated exchange between the women and studio staff in the moments following a class.
Approximately a dozen women, still clutching their yoga mats, confronted two employees, accusing them of “complicity” due to rumors that a small anti-ICE sign had been removed from the studio’s window. The atmosphere quickly became charged with frustration and anger, escalating into a direct challenge of the studio’s silence.
“Give us answers, let’s go…let’s hear it – why are you being silent?” one woman demanded, her voice echoing through the lobby. The pressure mounted as she continued, urging an immediate response and accusing the studio of prioritizing corporate messaging over a moral stance.
An employee, attempting to de-escalate the situation, suggested a need for careful consideration. This response was met with immediate resistance, as protesters insisted on an instant and unequivocal denouncement of the ICE raids. They argued that silence itself was a form of endorsement.
“CorePower is a major corporation,” one protester stated, “and their silence…trying to silence us…that is complicit. People are being harmed.” The group began a rhythmic chant, emphasizing the perceived weight of the studio’s inaction and the urgency of the situation.
As staff members expressed feeling “berated,” a protester countered, arguing that their experience paled in comparison to the hardships faced by those directly impacted by the immigration enforcement. The exchange highlighted a stark contrast in perspectives and the emotional intensity of the moment.
Threats to take their business elsewhere punctuated the confrontation, with one woman declaring, “We can get a yoga studio someplace else.” The protesters made it clear that their loyalty was contingent upon the studio taking a public stand on the issue.
Initially, CorePower Yoga faced criticism for allegedly suppressing local staff’s voices. However, within days, the company responded with a series of statements on social media, explicitly condemning the ICE raids and authorizing studios to display approved signage.
While the company emphasized a “zero-tolerance policy for aggressive conduct,” they confirmed no Minnesota teachers were terminated. However, one of the most vocal protesters was banned from the studio and had her membership revoked.
Despite the consequences, the protester considered the outcome a victory, believing her direct challenge had forced the corporation to address the issue. She acknowledged the power imbalance but asserted that her voice, and the pressure she helped create, had ultimately made a difference.
