The United States has a long history of immigration and deportation policies that have shaped the lives of millions. In 1954, the U.S. Border Patrol launched “Operation Wetback,” a mass deportation effort that removed over one million Hispanic workers. Decades later, immigration remains a deeply divisive issue, with policies and political makers that continue to separate families and disproportionately impact Latin American communities.

On February 2, crowds marched from Placita Olvera in downtown Los Angeles to City Hall and onto the 101 Freeway. Despite the disturbances, most protesters acted as peacemakers, escorting others out and maintaining peace with the LAPD. Through their silent steps and signs, they let their resilience speak for them, striving to keep the peace between Angelenos and the police. 

Protestors often expressed a shift in the meaning of certain phrases, such as the MAGA (Make America Great Again) slogan. For some, the message was reinterpreted to reflect a statement of resilience, with phrases like “Mexican ain’t going anywhere” becoming central to the protests. This slogan, which emphasizes cultural pride, has been circulating widely in media coverage alongside protests against ICE.

The demonstration of the fight for immigrant rights followed protests on February 5, 2024, when students at North Hollywood High School organized a protest against deportations, responding to President Trump’s immigration policies, which have intensified racial profiling and family separations. 

 At  North Hollywood, students showcased their sense of solidarity beyond the protest. For instance, when a car accident occurred near Taco Bell, many students stepped in to help push the vehicle out of the street, reflecting the unity that defines many diverse groups of  North Hollywood students.

The City of Los Angeles has the largest Latino immigrant population in the country, and many students are first-generation and second-generation Americans with deep ties to the issue. Many of them still have loved ones who have yet to have the privilege of gaining citizenship. For them, immigration is not just a political debate—it’s personal. The North Hollywood protest was a powerful reminder that communities affected by these policies will continue to advocate for justice.

Similarly, Senior Jacob Vasquez, one of the protesters, stated “I was doing it for my community at the end of the day, we must  voice our wants and needs.” He continued, “I know many immigrants who were sent back and you just gotta support in whichever way you can.” When asked if the protests remained peaceful, Jacob said, “It was pretty peaceful, some kids got on  buildings, but for the most part it remained controlled.

Ms. Meyer, the Assistant Principal of North Hollywood High School, provided reports on student attendance for February 3rd and 5th, noting significant absences and student involvement in protests. She shared, “On Monday, February 3, 716 students were absent from school and on Wednesday, February 5th, around 300 students participated in protests, primarily on Colfax Avenue and Magnolia Blvd during periods 4 and 5, with the largest turnout in period 5.” Ms. Meyer also noted that ‘four out of our administrators were stationed around the campus to ensure students’ safety during the protest.’ Some students, however, were advised by their parents to stay on school grounds, as it was considered a ‘safe’ space.

It is crucial to stay informed and prepared during these times. No one should have to live in fear of being separated from their family or community. Regardless of where you stand on immigration policies, the reality is that these actions deeply impact real people—our neighbors, coworkers, and friends. Recently, some alarming information has been shared—new documents from  ICE workers indicate that there might be “large-scale immigration raids” in February all in Los Angeles.  If you or your loved ones are affected individuals, I urge you to know your rights. In times like these knowing your rights can make all the difference. Stay safe, stay informed, and support one another.