UPDATE: High school students across the nation are staging urgent walkouts today, with a notable protest occurring at Santa Ynez Valley Union High School against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities. On January 30, 2026, students rallied during lunch to express solidarity with those affected by ICE enforcement, making their voices heard in a significant demonstration.
Student leader Addisynn Laliberte, a senior at the school, organized the walkout after being deeply moved by the emotional toll of recent ICE actions in her community. “I know friends who were scared to leave their homes because of ICE’s presence,” she stated. Laliberte and her peers created vibrant protest signs with slogans like “I like ICE in my drinks, not in the streets,” showcasing a powerful message against the agency’s local activities.
The protest began around 11:30 AM as students departed campus, with many carrying handmade signs. As they walked alongside Highway 246, supportive honks from passing vehicles amplified their voices. “It felt like everyone was proud of what we were doing,” Laliberte described, highlighting the emotional impact of the event.
The Santa Ynez Valley Union High School District had previously communicated with parents regarding the planned protest. In an email, they affirmed that while the event was not school-sponsored, they respect student expression as part of democracy. However, they cautioned that leaving campus during school hours is against school policies.
Not far away, students from Lompoc Valley also participated in peaceful protests, demonstrating a wave of student activism across the region. The Lompoc Unified School District confirmed that their schools experienced similar demonstrations, stating, “We recognize that students have First Amendment protection while at school.”
Footage of the protests quickly spread on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, amplifying the urgency of the students’ message. The movement reflects a growing trend of youth engagement in social and political issues, particularly concerning immigration rights.
As the nation approaches the one-year anniversary of a significant multi-school walkout against ICE tactics on February 18, the impact of today’s protests resonates deeply with the community. Students, educators, and local officials continue to grapple with the implications of ICE’s actions on their lives.
What’s next? Observers are keenly watching how these student-led movements will influence discussions about immigration policies and community safety in schools. The voices of these young activists are increasingly becoming a pivotal part of the national conversation.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
