Chicago and suburban students joined a nationwide protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement, staging walkouts across the state on Friday morning.
In Chicago, students at Lake View High School participated in the protest, while in Aurora, students also left their classrooms in solidarity.
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This wave of demonstrations follows a significant walkout earlier in the week in Aurora, involving over 1,500 students. That event saw tensions rise between students and law enforcement.
During the earlier protest, three students from East Aurora High School were arrested. One of the students faces an additional charge of aggravated battery against a police officer.
Protesters have accused police of using excessive force, whereas the authorities contend that the students did not comply with orders, entered the street without permission, and resisted arrest. Several officers sustained injuries during the incident.
In response to the events, the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office has initiated an independent review to investigate the situation further.
Because of this, Aurora school superintendents released a video, urging parents to encourage their kids to stay in the classroom on Friday for their safety.
READ MORE | Hundreds of North Side high school students walk out of class, hold anti-ICE rally at River Park
“When students leave campus, we cannot ensure their safety. Outside groups may join. Large gatherings can escalate. Law enforcement resources may be stretched if multiple schools are involved. These are real concerns,” the video says.
Students on Chicago’s North Side marched to the North Center Town Square.
Other student walkouts were also planned in Bolingbrook, Addison, and Elmhurst on Friday.
Chicago Public Schools issued a statement, saying, “Chicago Public Schools (CPS) remains committed to fostering learning environments that allow students to respectfully deliberate issues with evidence and an open mind – and safely participate in civic action.
It is appropriate in classes or special school events to create an environment where students of all viewpoints feel that they can express themselves in a safe and respectful environment.
In the event that students want to participate in civic action, school administrators work with student organizers to designate an appropriate, safe space for students to convene for a group activity. CPS allows for students to participate in planned civic actions, including walkouts or protests, for a period of time during the school day, according to CPS guidance.”
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