On Feb. 2, approximately 200 students from Kerman High School participated in a walkout at 8:30 a.m., gathering in front of the school before marching throughout the city.
Students walked from the campus to Garcia Supermarket along Whitesbridge Avenue and the Walmart parking lot, eventually ending at Kerman City Hall. The walkout came together in response to concerns over immigration enforcement and its impact on mixed-status families. Students carried handmade signs, chanting as cars passed along Whitesbridge Avenue.
The demonstration was organized by student Sayani Velasquez as a form of peaceful protest with youth amplifying their voices advocating for the safety and stability of their community. Velasquez said her motivation was personal and connected to her family’s experience.
“My motivation was specifically my dad. He came here when he was about six years old with his family and he worked so hard every day just to give me a life where I could chase my dreams,” Velasquez said. “I knew I would speak out for him and for all our people; I actually felt I had to.”
Students gathered and played instruments as part of the demonstration. According to participants, the walkout drew attention from a local official, Kerman Mayor Maria Pacheco, who later shared the following about her interaction with the protestors on Instagram.
“These students are a force. Met with organizers and young leaders to talk about collective power, responsibility and showing up strong and safe while making change,” she wrote.
Another participant, Eymi Gomez, said the protest reflected students’ desire to support their families and that many students feel their parents contribute significantly to the country and community.
“It’s important to stand up for the people who raised us,” Gomez said.
For many participants, the march was not simply about policy, but protecting their families and community, showcasing that young people believe their voices can create change, even in a small town.
“I feel I did show to the best of my ability that even in this small town our voice matters,” Velasquez said.
