High school students in Austin Independent School District left during class time to protest a recent shooting involving agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The shooting occurred on September 20 in North Austin and involved an illegal alien from Venezuela. The illegal alien was the subject of a targeted vehicle stop, but fled the scene, leading to a short chase.
Wilber Garcés Pérez was shot in the back during a struggle with ICE agents and was taken to Dell Seton Medical Center before being transferred to South Texas ICE Processing Center in Pearsall.
His deportation has been temporarily blocked by a U.S. judge, and he is ordered to appear in court September 30.
Since the incident, several protests have been held calling for Perez’ release.
Students from Anderson High School who participated in the Friday walkout told a local news outlet “that the demonstration was focused on immigration enforcement and showing support for people in their community.”
CBS Austin reports that for the students, “the walkout was also about encouraging other young people to stay informed and participate in elections when they’re eligible.”
The Department of Homeland Security released a statement debunking false narratives that have been spread about the incident by media outlets, activists, and politicians.
DHS says some of the false narratives include that Perez had a valid work permit, is here legally, and has been denied needed medical care.
Department of Homeland Secretary Markwayne Mullin wrote that despite the spread of these false narratives, ICE will not be slowing down and will continue its job of removing illegal aliens from the Austin area.
“Sanctuary politicians may continue to shamelessly protect illegal aliens, but the Trump Administration will remain focused on protecting the American people,” said Mullin.
This isn’t the first time students have left class to protest ICE.
Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Education Agency to investigate the district following a similar protest earlier this year.
Attorney General Ken Paxton also opened a separate investigation, demanding information from the district on security protocols and policies that allow students to leave campus.
At the time, parents were told that school staff cannot physically keep students from leaving midday to participate in a protest, and such acts are considered inexcusable absences.
Texas Scorecard asked the Texas Education Agency if it plans to investigate Friday’s walkout, but did not receive a response before publication.
