AUSTIN, Texas — Students from St. Edward’s University joined hundreds of demonstrators at the Texas Capitol on Jan. 30 to protest the actions and policies of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
The demonstration followed a broader “blackout” call to action and student walkouts across Austin ISD campuses and nearby districts. Organizers said the protests aimed to spotlight immigration enforcement practices they believe harm immigrant communities in Texas and nationwide.
Junior social work majors Lily Grant and Elon Parker said they attended in solidarity. Grant pushed back on criticism that protests are ineffective. “If enough people are outraged and protesting, it will gain attention,” she said.
Recent protests nationwide intensified following the deaths of Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti, who were reported to be bystanders during ICE arrests in Minnesota. Demonstrators cited concerns about enforcement tactics, often shared widely on social media.
At the Capitol, speakers shared personal immigration stories and information about community resources. Some protesters called for abolishing ICE, while others advocated for policy reform. Parker said he supports clearer and fairer immigration policies, including expanded legal pathways for longtime residents.
ICE has stated its mission is to protect national security and public safety through enforcement of immigration laws. Protesters questioned whether current practices fulfill that mission.
Organizers said the Jan. 30 rally was part of a broader movement calling for immigration policy changes and increased protections for undocumented immigrants.
