“We are the face of the future,” Maize High senior Tatyana Torres said. “Without us, we can’t rely on older people to speak up for us and do something about it, so we have to.”
On Thursday, January 22, students from both high schools in USD 266 united in a stand against United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, also known as ICE, in a district-wide walkout. This student-led protest was staged at 1:10 p.m. during school hours between C lunch and fourth block. Maize High senior Tatyana Torres organized the walkout through social media after being inspired by other schools around Wichita.
“Especially in this area, with it being predominantly white, you don’t see the voices like you do from Wichita or North,” Torres said. “We don’t ever have anything like this, so I feel like this is such a big deal that everyone came out.”
Students started their route at the original Maslow’s Pantry located in the Maize High parking lot, then protested their way down 21st Street and Maize Road, making it to their stopping point at the intersection in front of Walmart. Parents and students were informed by administrators that participating in the walkout would lead to an absence for the day, but despite this, students still proceeded to speak up and use their voices for what they believe is important.
“I think it’s important for people my age because we are the next people coming into office and we’re growing up,” Maize South sophomore Jonah Martinez said. “I think a lot of people are very influenced by social media and their parents, and it’s important for kids to have their own opinions.”
Maize High sophomore Jasmine Palacios said that by protesting, she is using her voice to stand up for her culture and make her family proud.
“I chose to participate for my people,” Palacios said. “I grew up with immigrants, and what’s happening in the world right now is very sad. I feel like nobody deserves to go through the things that are happening right now.”
Students left their classrooms and walked together with signs and flags, all dressed in black as a way to be heard in their community.
“I’m so proud,” Torres said. “Seriously, I was not expecting this amount of support. This whole thing has been crazy. I’m proud of the community, and I’m proud of everyone who came here.”
