Horlick High School students protest against ICE, saying immigrants add value to the community | Racine County Eye

RACINE, WI – William Horlick High School student Sylvia Miranda isn’t asking for special treatment, she wants to raise awareness of the contributions of immigrants and acknowledgement that Racine thrives because of immigrant families.

“They work in our factories, our restaurants and our stores. They built this community. They contribute to the city. They are the city,” she said.

Miranda, along with hundreds of students, gathered outside of William Horlick High School on Friday afternoon to protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). 

Horlick students are rooted in student activism, primarily by participating in the group, Youth Empowered in the Struggle. 

“When students live in fear, you limit Racine’s future. We are not criminals. Our parents are not criminals. They are workers, providers, community members, taxpayers, neighbors and human beings,” Miranda added. “This is not about breaking walls. This is about breaking cycles of trauma.”

Horlick students raise their voices

Several schools have protested against ICE, sparking a nationwide movement showcasing their opposition to President Donald Trump’s administration. On Feb. 10, J.I. Case High School students walked out in protest against ICE.

In a letter sent to parents, Horlick principal Danny Hernandez said, “While this walkout is not a school-sponsored activity, we recognize the importance of civic engagement as part of a well-rounded education.

“Moments like this present opportunities for young people to deepen their understanding of social issues, explore their own voices and learn how to engage in collective action in a safe, constructive and respectful way. As always, we expect our students to respect the rights and opinions of others.”

Hernandez said staff supervised students during the walk out “to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff. However, students who choose to leave campus will be unsupervised.” 

Students picketed around the school starting around 1:18 p.m., eventually walking to the Racine Labor Center.

Students chanted in unison, “Students united will never be defeated” and more.

Several students stood on the front steps of Horlick High School, sharing how they want their voices to be heard.

Charlie Easton, a transgender senior, spoke in hopes that more would use their voices for issues they care about.

“Racine does not feel safe for Black people. It’s not safe for queer people,” Easton said. “It is not safe for immigrants. It’s not safe for anybody if (others) don’t see the importance of color.”

Among the hundreds of students, they shared a common goal and a deep connection to the future of Racine.

“We are the future of Racine and the future refuses to live in fear,” Miranda said. “Today, we walk out, not just for ourselves but for every child who deserves to come home to their parents, for every family that deserves to stay together for a Racine that chooses protection over fear.”