SF Joins National ICE Protest: Businesses Close, Students Walk Out
In a powerful expression of solidarity against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), thousands of San Francisco students and businesses participated in a national protest on Friday. The demonstration was a response to the recent killings of two U.S. citizens, Alex Pretti and Renee Good, by federal immigration agents.
Mass Student Walkout in San Francisco
On the day of the protest, students from the Urban School of San Francisco and other institutions walked out of their classes. They gathered at Dolores Park, where a large rally took place. Many attendees carried signs with slogans condemning ICE and demanding justice.
Background of the Protest
- Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care nurse, was shot by ICE agents while filming them.
- Good, also 37, was killed while sitting in her car by an ICE agent.
Both incidents have galvanized local students and community members, sparking this major demonstration. Previous protests had already drawn significant crowds in Minneapolis, with around 50,000 participants enduring subzero temperatures.
Support from the Business Community
In a show of solidarity, various San Francisco businesses chose to close their doors. Touchstone Climbing suspended operations at all 17 of its locations. The Roxie Theater refunded tickets for scheduled showings over the weekend.
- Local internet service provider Monkeybrains gave its 70 employees a day off.
- Reid Marple, a sous chef at Hilda and Jesse, participated in the protests, expressing his frustration with recent events.
Many business owners emphasized the importance of their closures, hoping it would raise awareness about the broader issues at stake.
Rallying Voices
Lucy Sylvester, a student organizer, shared her motivation for participating in the walkout. She recalled a childhood friend who was deported, which fueled her advocacy for immigrant rights. Her classmate, Ella Braverman, noted that this protest is only the beginning of ongoing efforts against ICE.
Various Gatherings Across the Bay Area
Alongside Dolores Park, demonstrations were held at multiple locations, including:
- UC Berkeley
- Santa Clara University
- Fruitvale BART Station in Oakland
Hundreds joined the rallies, driven by a desire to challenge systemic issues related to immigration enforcement. Demonstrators chanted slogans promoting solidarity and resistance to oppression.
Emotional Impact and Community Response
The emotional intensity at the demonstrations was palpable. Many attendees expressed a collective hope for change, encapsulated by the urgent need to address violence and injustice perpetrated by federal agents.
Reflections on Recent Events
Community leaders and organizers emphasized the need for continued vigilance and activism. Katherine Douglas, a local business owner, stressed the importance of making intentional spending choices to support causes aligned with justice and equity.
The protest not only highlighted recent tragedies but also united a diverse range of voices committed to advocating for immigrant rights. The actions taken on Friday are part of a larger movement seeking systemic change in how the U.S. handles immigration issues.
