A Demand for Reform

Image: Accolades/Joslyn Rakes

Across the nation, high school students have walked away from their desks and into public spaces to protest the actions of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency (ICE). Much of this outrage has sparked from the stories of families being separated, children being detained, and immigrant communities being targeted and raided. As poorly trained and masked individuals surround these communities, the country has watched and worried about what is to come. 

The youth population has begun to realize what the path of our future may look like. Schools throughout the Greater Metro Atlanta Area, such as Riverwood, North Atlanta, and Midtown, have participated in organized walkouts, where students have marched together, held signs, and ultimately used their voices to demand reform. Now, Galloway plans to take part in this broader movement. A team of six seniors have worked with school administration to organize a walkout that is approved and ensures the safety of students. After discussion, the walkout has been officially scheduled for Friday, February 6th, during the last period of the day, corresponding with students’ first period class.  

It’s important to understand that this walkout is not an opportunity to skip class or leave campus for enjoyment. It is an act of civic engagement meant to advocate against harmful immigration enforcement practices and help craft a new future. A common criticism of a walkout is the idea that “one action cannot make a difference.” However, history consistently shows the opposite. Past social and political change rarely began with massive participation; rather, it was fueled from small and visible acts. Also, public demonstration increases media attention and places pressure on lawmakers, especially when actions are repeated in a community. This walkout is just one of many contributions to a greater national conversation. 

Further guidelines can be found on the Instagram page: @gway_students_demand_action. Students are encouraged to bring signs that communicate their message clearly and respectfully. In doing so, signs could include phrases like:  

• “Reject hate, embrace humanity”

• “No decent human has a heart made of ICE”

• “Education not deportation” 

Please, after finishing this article, take away two things: “History repeats, if we stay silent” and Reform ICE.