Students across the San Antonio area walked out of classes on Friday, disrupting the school day at more than a dozen schools, to protest federal law enforcement actions and their perceived impact on local communities.
Student Protests Reflect Growing Concerns
Hundreds of students from schools in areas ranging from New Braunfels to Woodlawn Lake Park participated in what they described as intentional, peaceful demonstrations. The protests occurred alongside a larger demonstration in downtown San Antonio, where an estimated 3,000 people marched against federal immigration policies. This wave of activism follows a week of heightened debate surrounding immigration, extending from Minneapolis to South Texas, where 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos and his father remain in federal custody.
Students articulated that their activism is informed by both classroom learning and personal experiences. One student explained the connection, stating, “Somewhere, a little kid is hiding in the attic writing about ICE. It’s a reference to Anne Frank during the Holocaust.” Others shared personal stories related to immigration and family separation, with one student saying, “I’m a proud daughter of an immigrant, and it’s not right to see a bunch of families get separated.”
The demonstrations weren’t limited to student participation. At Brandeis High School, parents and grandparents joined the students in their rally outside the campus. One parent expressed sadness, saying, “I’m sad for these kids because we didn’t grow up in a world like this,” and emphasized their support for the students’ actions. Another adult supporter framed the protests as a matter of “humanity” and “what’s right and wrong.”
School Districts Respond to Demonstrations
Northeast ISD acknowledged students’ rights to express their views but warned that students participating in walkouts would be marked as truant, resulting in an unexcused absence. San Antonio ISD issued a statement encouraging dialogue between parents and children regarding participation and potential consequences, while also offering students a safe space to protest on campus during lunch or before/after school. Despite these warnings, students continued to participate, stating their belief in the necessity of making their voices heard.
Students voiced a desire for a more equitable future. One student stated, “I feel really strong that everyone here is equal and no one should be killed because of their skin tone,” while another expressed optimism, saying, “I believe we will change what’s going on, and we don’t want to repeat this again in history.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the student protests?
Students protested federal law enforcement presence and what they referred to as its impact on their communities, specifically related to immigration policies.
How did school districts respond to the walkouts?
Northeast ISD stated students participating in walkouts would receive an unexcused absence, while San Antonio ISD offered students safe on-campus spaces to protest.
Did parents and community members participate in the protests?
Yes, at Brandeis High School, parents and grandparents joined students in their demonstration outside the campus.
As these issues continue to fuel debate nationwide, will student activism continue to shape the conversation surrounding immigration and federal law enforcement?
