In a powerful demonstration of unity and resistance, students at Louisiana State University (LSU) have rallied together to protest against President Trump’s policy that allows Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to operate on college campuses. These students, led by the campus group Students for Democratic Society, feel an urgent responsibility to protect their fellow classmates from what they perceive as persecution and intimidation. Ryan Spalt, the president of the group, emphasizes the critical nature of their actions as they demand that their university become a sanctuary campus, explicitly restricting ICE operations.
Protesters made their opposition clear by holding signs with strong messages such as “Keep ICE Out of Our Schools” and “Make LSU a Sanctuary Campus.” The comparison of ICE and the Republican Party to historically racist groups like the Ku Klux Klan underlines the depth of their condemnation. The students have taken these steps because they are concerned that LSU has not taken a definitive stand against the federal directives that put immigrant students at risk. The current situation has left many immigrant students feeling scared and powerless, so much so that some even avoid participating in protests from fear of being reported to ICE authorities.
The sense of fear and oppression is magnified by LSU’s controversial actions against Professor Ken Levy, who faced punitive measures for voicing criticism of Trump and Governor Landry. This incident has contributed to an atmosphere where free speech is seemingly stifled and criticism of the administration is not tolerated. Ryan Spalt calls for greater courage and solidarity among students and faculty, urging them to vocally oppose policies they believe are unjust. The collective action, according to Spalt, is crucial in building a strong resistance and fostering a campus environment where all students feel safe and supported.
