More than 100 students at T.C. Roberson High School in Asheville staged a walkout Tuesday morning to protest recent immigration enforcement actions. The demonstration highlights student voices, motivations, and concerns regarding immigration enforcement policies and their impact on families in the community.
Protest Details
The student-led walkout occurred Tuesday morning as part of a nationwide National Day of Action against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Students walked out before 11:30 a.m. and marched down Long Shoals Road toward Biltmore Park. Students carried signs and national flags.
One student estimated that between 150-200 students participated. Protesters chanted slogans and called for the abolishment of ICE. One student distributed pins stamped with "ICE OUT." Some protesters entered nearby businesses under police observation.
Student Perspectives
Students framed the protest around ideals of freedom. One student stated they did not feel safe. Another student stated the protest was against ICE and what they are doing in this country.
Context
Buncombe County Schools confirmed the walkout was fully student-led and not sponsored by the school. A similar student walkout occurred at Asheville High School on January 30, as part of broader demonstrations protesting ICE.
The recent demonstration at T.C. Roberson High School underscores the growing concerns among young people in Western North Carolina regarding immigration enforcement and its effects on the community.