Love is unity. That is what Americans across the country need to realize in a time when their constitutional rights are at risk, especially when President Donald Trump has allowed aggressive responses against citizens utilizing their constitutional rights. For many, this is the sole reason why students are walking out of their schools to protest for those who cannot. With ICE going into surrounding communities, racially profiling and separating love cultivated in a community, many feel compelled to act.
Although some feel as if their voice is miniscule in the grand scheme of our country, united, their voices are stronger and ensure their message is heard. “I think we sometimes forget how powerful our voice is,” Giovanni Gutierrez, a junior, said, “Our role as citizens is to use the power that is given to us when we unite, as stated in the first sentence in the constitution ‘We the people…”
Even if it may seem like it has no direct effect, things don’t quickly change. It takes persistence and effort to make desired change into reality, and backing down should not be in the realm of possibilities. A visual of this slow but gradual change occurring can be seen in elections across the country, like in Texas District 9, a notoriously ruby-red seat that has not changed in 30 years, flipped to blue. “The people will no longer turn a blind eye to the blatant racism and fascism,” Gutierrez said.
Standing outside during the protest was more than just an act of defiance; for many students, it was a response to the fear and uncertainty ICE raids have brought into their daily lives. It has caused distress within many families throughout surrounding communities, who are often hesitant to continue their day-to-day activities without taking extra precautions. “People are living in fear. [They] are unsure if they should go to work, if they should take their kids to school, they’re just unsure how to live their lives.” Dr. Heber Marquez, Mayor of Maywood, said.
For some, constantly watching their own families navigate that uneasy feeling, the protest was not just a political response, but it was personal. Many students could have described the walkout as a way to stand beside those who are also directly affected and feel they must remain silent, but as one.
“As the son of immigrants I feel the need to support my parents in any way possible to ensure their safety,” Gutierrez said, explaining that the walkout represented both solidarity and gratitude for the sacrifices immigrant families make.
With the uprising of the walkouts, the moments when ordinary individuals decide their voices matter will be remembered. For those who walked out, the act meant more than a response to immigration enforcement tactics. It represented unity in a time of division; a reminder that participating does not only begin when you can vote, but wherever people choose to stand together.
Love is unity. And unity, when exercised through collective voice, becomes strength.
