In a wave of nationwide protests, individuals are expressing their dissatisfaction with the current administration’s immigration policies. At the University of Georgia, students joined the ‘Free America’ Walk Out to voice their disapproval of President Donald Trump and the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This event encouraged participation across schools and workplaces to challenge what they perceive as aggressive enforcement tactics.
Participants gathered at the Arch at noon, echoing sentiments that highlight the urgency for change. A participant stated, “A lot of people are angry right now, a lot of people want change, they’re fed up.” Concerns about ICE’s operational effectiveness and past incidents were evident, as one protester remarked, “I don’t think ICE is very well trained, I don’t think they know what they’re doing, and they also killed someone.”
Emphasizing patriotism, another participant noted the intent behind the protest, saying, “I want people to know this isn’t about not being for America because it is. I’ve countries, like Venezuela or Palestine. I don’t want people to complain about that; in fact, I brought an American flag because I think it’s important.”
The recent shooting of 37-year-old Renee Good by ICE agents in Minneapolis has spurred several such demonstrations. The Athens community expressed their concerns poignantly. One resident shared, “Partly to set a good example for my children, my 13-year-old is here with me, and I feel like we’ve put up with too much for too long and so even in this small way it feels important to voice our dissent.”
The Party for Socialism and Liberation organized the event, highlighting widespread discontent and calls for reform among diverse communities.
