Over a hundred students walked out of the school today in solidarity in response to Trump’s controversial immigration laws and claims of racism amongst the student body. After a display of Latino pride during today’s’ pep rally, many students uninvolved with the protest responded with tweets and snapchats saying things like “Build that FING wall,” and “Trump Trump Trump.” Junior, Olivia Salazar, who participated in the walkout, said the response to the pep rally only “added fuel to the [protest’s] fire.”

“There were lots of people today during the pep rally who were rude,” Haley White, junior, said. “I saw that someone was angry that Mexicans were highlighted during black history month. We wanted to march to show that we’re all the same and we have our own rights too.”

The protesters walked through the hallways at noon and were immediately ushered out of the school by administration and security. Once outside, students congregated across the street from the school and proceeded to chant “F*** Donald Trump,” and “Si se puede.” Officer Jason Stevens blocked the protesters from entering the street by parking his cop car on the curb.

“I just wanted them to stay out of the roadway,” Stevens said. “I mean, obviously they should be in school and they should be protesting after school hours, but we do have the right to protest in this country. My whole take was just trying to keep everybody safe and trying to make sure nobody got hurt while protesting.”

Principal Shahveer Dhalla told the crowd they could not continue protesting in front of the school.

“You are causing a disruption,” he informed the crowd as they waved Mexican flags and posters.

Later, a school wide announcement was made to address the protesters.

“[Protesters] have left the premise of Arlington High School,” Dhalla said. “Students I tell you this because it caused a disruption. Use good judgement, and to those still in class, I appreciate you.”

Similar protests have been recorded at Sam Houston and Lamar high schools along with junior highs in the district and schools around the Metroplex. White said the students are “trying to get all of the schools to unite.”

The protest was not free of scrutiny, with many students immediately voicing their annoyance at the pointlessness of the walkout.

“What’s the point of [protesting]?” Criscel Ramos, senior, asked. “It’s inefficient. They should do it outside of school, why are they wasting their time? They should be in school learning.”

Protesters had a message for those who opposed their demonstration.

“I hope they get inspiration to express themselves, whoever they are.” White said. “And I hope that they respond emotionally. I hope this all makes a difference somehow.”

Salazar also voiced her hopes for the protest.

“I want them to know that they can’t take us down if we’re united,” Salazar said. “We’re all together.”

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