As a resident of Columbia, South Carolina, Main Street is more than a location. It is the cultural and economic heart of our city. It is where families gather, where small businesses build their dreams, and where our community comes together every weekend at Soda City Market.

Many of us in Columbia are descendants of immigrants living on land originally stewarded by Indigenous people. Our history is layered and complex. Because of that history, decisions about belonging, safety, and presence in shared spaces matter deeply. Downtown should reflect inclusion, transparency, and community centered values.

In 2025, a 10 year lease reportedly totaling 4.3 million dollars placed a federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement office on Main Street. This long term enforcement presence in the center of our community corridor does not align with the spirit of connection and accessibility that defines downtown Columbia.

Main Street is not simply office space. It is a public facing symbol of who we are as a city.

We are calling on building ownership and city leadership to initiate a public review of this lease and develop a plan to relocate the ICE office to a non central, non community facing location. This request is about appropriate placement, community impact, and preserving the integrity of our downtown.

This is not about hostility. It is about alignment.

Columbia deserves a Main Street that reflects unity, culture, and economic opportunity for all residents. We are asking for transparency, accountability, and relocation.

Sign and share this petition to protect the vibrancy, accessibility, and community spirit of Main Street.