Shadow Hills High School students walked out of class during first period Jan. 30 to gather in the quad and protest recent immigration issues.
At 9 a.m., students were given permission to leave class to voice concerns regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement, also known as ICE. During the event, which lasted until the end of second period, students listened to speakers and were invited to sign a petition to be delivered to Indio City Hall.
Cadum Whitethorn (‘28) walked out to show support, especially to members of the Shadow Hills community. “I wanted to make sure voices were heard,” he explained. He said after Friday’s event, he would like to attend peaceful protests to continue showing his support.
Senior Xitlalli Fregoso said she was happy to be part of the event and stand up for those who are struggling or afraid. Another speaker, Senior Nailea Mendoza-Vazquez, spoke about witnessing injustices within the community, the importance of attending peaceful protests, and why teenagers should speak up.
Sophomore Stephany Medel-Ayon, confirmed in her speech a message felt by so many Knights. “From the fields that feed our country, to the businesses that line our streets, immigration isn’t a topic here, it is our economy, history, and soul,” she said.
The protest comes amid a rise in national tension regarding immigration. According to research from the Cato Institute, an uptick in arrests began in June, 2025. While U.S. Customs and Border Protection defines “criminal aliens” as “individuals convicted of one or more crimes,” protesters across the U.S. have expressed concerns that those without criminal records are also being detained.
Students organized the event to promote unity and cultural pride while urging government and city leaders to take action.
“You are walking the same paths as the farmworkers who fought for dignity decades ago, Medel-Ayon reminded the crowd. “You are proving that this valley doesn’t just grow crops, it grows leaders. You are reclaiming the narrative of your families and demanding that your humanity be seen.”
