Hundreds of students across Portland took a stand, walking out of their classrooms to protest ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) actions. This powerful display of solidarity came in response to the recent tragic shootings in Minneapolis, which claimed the lives of two U.S. citizens. The students' message was clear: 'Stop ICE Terror Now.'
The protest saw students from McDaniel High School in Northeast Portland marching through the streets, their voices united in chants of 'This is what democracy looks like!'. Their determination was palpable, and their signs, 'Stop ICE Terror Now', became a symbol of resistance.
Not limited to McDaniel, students from Roosevelt High School also joined the walkout, marching down North Lombard Street. This collective action mirrored protests across the Pacific Northwest and the nation, demonstrating a unified front against immigration enforcement.
Among the protesters was Jasmin Reyes-Contreras, a senior at Roosevelt. She emphasized the students' concern, stating, 'We care about this issue. It impacts everyone, including students whose parents have been taken away.'
The impact of the protest extended beyond the streets. Schools in Oregon have implemented unexcused absences for students who skip school or participate in walkouts, including protests. This could potentially affect students' eligibility for extracurricular activities, such as athletics.
Viola DeVigal, a McDaniel sophomore, played a pivotal role in organizing the rally. She shared her meaningful experience, saying, 'It was a powerful moment to see my community and peers unite in support of each other and those in need.'
The protest's impact was felt across diverse student bodies. About 28% of McDaniel's student body is Latino, and DeVigal revealed concerns from students afraid to attend school due to potential ICE detentions. Oscar Ribeiro, a Roosevelt sophomore, shared similar stories of classmates' family members being 'deported or attacked' by ICE.
Despite the protest, Portland Public Schools maintained a normal school day, respecting students' rights to protest and voice their opinions. Superintendent Kimberlee Armstrong expressed support for the immigrant community, stating, 'We are committed to advocating for our immigrant staff, students, and families.'
The protest extended beyond student activism, with small businesses in the Pacific Northwest considering closing in solidarity. However, the decision was complex, as some businesses feared financial losses during challenging economic times. The nationwide general strike, promoted online, has gained momentum since the Minneapolis shootings, with protesters and business owners demanding 'ICE out now'.
In Portland, business owners Polo Bañuelos and Carlos Reynoso faced a similar dilemma. They decided to close their vegan restaurant, Mis Tacones, in solidarity with the protest. Bañuelos explained, 'We want to participate, but closing is challenging for small businesses. Many cannot afford to lose a day.'
The couple's decision was influenced by their personal experiences and the restaurant's authentic, community-focused approach. Bañuelos, born in the U.S. to Mexican immigrants, and Reynoso, born in Mexico, brought their cultures to Portland. They planned to spend the day off with their dogs and friends, reflecting on the emotional weight of the moment.
Christine Azar, owner of a chocolate and coffee shop, also considered closing but chose to donate proceeds to support small businesses in Minneapolis. She said, 'I stand in solidarity with businesses closing for the strike, but I want to ensure my support is effective.' Azar Indulgences will donate Friday's proceeds and a share of Saturday and Sunday's earnings, potentially continuing the initiative in February.
The protest and strike movements highlight the complex interplay between immigration policies, community activism, and economic challenges. As the nation grapples with these issues, the voices of students and business owners continue to resonate, demanding change and a more compassionate approach to immigration enforcement.
