Aurora, Lakeview students join Chicago-area school walkouts to protest immigration enforcement

AURORA, Ill. (WLS) — Chicago and suburban students joining others across the state and nationwide protesting Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Friday morning.

A walkout at Lake View High School got underway as students in Aurora also walked out of school on Friday.

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The demonstrations come after more than 1,500 students participated in a walkout earlier this week in Aurora, where things got contentious between students and police.

Officers arrested three East Aurora High School students, one of whom is also charged with aggravated battery to a police officer.

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Protesters say officers used excessive force while police say the students did not follow commands, walked out into the street, and resisted. Multiple officers were injured in the protest.

The Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office is now conducting an independent review of that situation.

Because of this, Aurora school superintendents released a video, urging parents to encourage their kids to stay in the classroom on Friday for their safety.

READ MORE | Hundreds of North Side high school students walk out of class, hold anti-ICE rally at River Park

“When students leave campus, we cannot ensure their safety. Outside groups may join. Large gatherings can escalate. Law enforcement resources may be stretched if multiple schools are involved. These are real concerns,” the video says.

Students on Chicago’s North Side marched to the North Center Town Square.

Other student walkouts were also planned in Bolingbrook, Addison, and Elmhurst on Friday.

Chicago Public Schools issued a statement, saying, “Chicago Public Schools (CPS) remains committed to fostering learning environments that allow students to respectfully deliberate issues with evidence and an open mind – and safely participate in civic action.

It is appropriate in classes or special school events to create an environment where students of all viewpoints feel that they can express themselves in a safe and respectful environment.

In the event that students want to participate in civic action, school administrators work with student organizers to designate an appropriate, safe space for students to convene for a group activity. CPS allows for students to participate in planned civic actions, including walkouts or protests, for a period of time during the school day, according to CPS guidance.”