Students at Walt Whitman High School in Bethesda, Maryland, staged a significant walkout on Tuesday to protest the actions of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This demonstration highlighted the students’ demand for Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) to reduce its cooperation with ICE.
Protest Overview
At the sound of the fifth-period bell, hundreds of students exited the school grounds in a coordinated effort to raise awareness about immigration issues. Organizers Evan Schwartz and Dalia Rees, both juniors, emphasized that the protest was a response to recent ICE activities, particularly in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Voices of the Students
- Schwartz stated, “We’re protesting ICE brutality and urging MCPS to stop cooperating with ICE.”
- Rees expressed the need for political engagement, saying, “It’s crucial that we remain politically active.”
Students also called for the school’s policies to be updated to prohibit ICE operations on campuses. Specifically, they requested educational assemblies about civil liberties to enhance awareness of constitutional rights among classmates.
Personal Experiences and Concerns
Freshman Mariana Spensley-Aguirre, an American citizen with Mexican heritage, shared her concerns about her family’s safety. She articulated the anxiety that many families face, stating, “Everyone’s living in fear, and we’re watching the news—it’s terrifying.”
As she plans her quinceañera, a celebration marking the transition to womanhood, she mentioned that some relatives are afraid to attend due to their concerns about being targeted by immigration officials.
MCPS Response to Protest
In response to the student protest, MCPS spokesperson Liliana Lopez addressed the district’s policies concerning ICE. She detailed the procedures the school system follows if immigration officials visit a school. This includes verifying identities and notifying legal counsel for guidance.
- MCPS assures families they have resources and information regarding these policies.
- The school district supports the right of students to assemble peacefully and express their views.
It was noted that students who participated in the walkout could face unexcused absences, a point that Schwartz highlighted after the event.
Conclusion
This protest by Bethesda high school students reflects a growing concern over immigration policies and the safety of their communities. As they demand change, they amplify the voices of those who fear the ramifications of current immigration enforcement practices.
