Upper Darby High Students Protest ICE Enforcement with Walkout
Students at Upper Darby High School in Pennsylvania organized a significant walkout to protest immigration enforcement and show solidarity with their classmates from immigrant families. This demonstration took place on a Thursday afternoon at approximately 12:30 p.m.
Purpose of the Walkout
The students aimed to voice their opposition to the actions of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), highlighting the fear it instills within their diverse school community. Upper Darby School District boasts a rich cultural tapestry, with students hailing from over 80 countries.
Voices of Advocacy
Senior Emma Kramer emphasized the need for peace and community during the protest, stating, “We choose peace. We choose people.” Similarly, senior Dwayne Mills remarked on the importance of opportunity for all, reinforcing that “this is the land of opportunity.”
Recent Context
The students’ actions were in response to a recent incident in Phoenixville, where two Guatemalan men were arrested by ICE. This event drew attention and concern from local advocates, further fueling the students’ desire to protest.
Student-Led Movement
The walkout was part of a larger trend of student-led protests across the nation, with similar demonstrations reported from Indianapolis to Los Angeles. Organizers like junior Aniayah Pittman expressed that it was crucial for young people to control their own narrative, stating, “At the end of the day, the kids, they want to hear from kids.”
Support from School Officials
Prior to the protest, school authorities ensured student safety by conducting a forum with the superintendent and the local police chief. In an official statement, the district recognized the importance of student voices, affirming, “Our students are beautifully diverse, and their feelings and voices are important to us.”
Community Engagement
Local councilmembers joined the students in their endeavor, discussing a new resolution to limit cooperation with ICE regarding civil immigration enforcement. Councilmember Kyle McIntyre mentioned the ongoing efforts, saying, “It’s a resolution to establish a policy that we will not work with ICE.”
Personal Stories
For many participants, the issue resonated personally. Junior Jasmin Guerra expressed her concerns, stating, “I shouldn’t have to go home and worry if my parents are home.”
Outcome of the Protest
Following the walkout, no disciplinary actions were taken against the students, who returned to class afterward. The proposed council resolution regarding ICE cooperation is anticipated to be voted on in the coming weeks, signifying ongoing engagement in the community’s immigration concerns.
