News Summary
This past Saturday, around 150 individuals gathered in downtown Los Angeles for a protest organized by the UCLA Faculty Association. The demonstration opposed the revocation of student visas affecting international students, which have increased under recent government policies. Speakers emphasized the importance of free speech and the need for solidarity among students facing deportation threats. The rally not only highlighted the immediate concerns over visa statuses but also sparked discussions on broader issues of political repression and civic engagement within academic environments.
UCLA Faculty Associations Unite for International Students
Los Angeles was buzzing this past Saturday as around 150 passionate individuals came together for a demonstration organized by the UCLA Faculty Association. Nestled in downtown Los Angeles just a stone’s throw from City Hall, the lively protest quickly gained momentum, uniting people from various groups, including the California Faculty Association and numerous Southern California organizations.
A Stand Against Visa Revocations
The aim? To voice strong opposition to the recent revocation of student visas and the resulting deportations impacting international students. Recent moves by the Trump administration have led to the revocation of visas for at least 19 international students and alumni at UCLA alone, with nearly 1,000 students nationwide feeling the squeeze. This tough stance followed an executive order from January, targeting those involved in pro-Palestine protests on university campuses across the country.
Details from a meeting involving Undergraduate Students Association Council (USAC) officers and UCLA administrators revealed that the students affected had faced prior misdemeanor arrests, although it’s unclear if these were linked to the protests. Regardless, the situation painted a picture of increasing tension and fear looming over international students.
A Growing Crowd
What began as a small gathering of about 15 people near the intersection of Broadway Street and Temple Street quickly blossomed. As participants from a nearby rally that included well-known politicians like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez wrapped up their speeches, they made their way to the protest, boosting the numbers to approximately 150 enthusiastic supporters. It was evident that many were eager to join in solidarity and support their peers facing uncertainties.
Voices for Change
A key figure leading the charge was Michael Chwe, an executive board member of the UCLA Faculty Association. He emphasized the importance of backing students who might feel uncomfortable expressing their concerns due to the threat of retaliation. His words resonated with attendees, creating an atmosphere of unity and camaraderie.
Various speakers took the stage, with activists from Southern California colleges vehemently condemning the visa revocations and warning about the bigger issue at play—free speech suppression on campuses. Some participants, including Baba Akili from UCLA, highlighted how crucial it is to speak out against actions that threaten democracy and civic engagement.
A March Towards Justice
After a series of compelling speeches, the crowd made their way to the 300 North Los Angeles Federal Building, home to the USCIS Field Office. Emotions ran high as attendees channeled their frustration over the situation. While the turnout was substantial, some felt disheartened, suggesting that fear and a lack of awareness may have kept some from joining the ranks.
At the federal building, speakers included representatives from CSU Students for Quality Education and Students for Justice in Palestine at UCLA, showcasing a diverse coalition fighting for a common cause. A doctoral student from UCLA, Zack Pine, painted a vivid picture of the anxiety that many international students grapple with concerning their visa statuses and fears of deportation.
Addressing the Bigger Picture
The rally served as a powerful reminder of the pervasive issues surrounding political repression, campus safety, and the suppression of free expression. Through Chwe’s reading of poignant testimonies from students, the audience gained insight into a culture of fear shrouding the discussion of political views that are critical of government actions.
Yet, amidst the palpable tension, there was a flicker of hope. Pine expressed an optimistic outlook, believing that with continued protests, the movement would gain traction and momentum against what many perceive as a looming fascism in the political landscape. The organizers are committed to amplifying this protest movement, encouraging others to recognize its significance and join the call for action.
As the sun set on this spirited day in Los Angeles, the message was clear: united voices can make a difference, and together, they strive to ensure that no student feels alone in their struggle.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
California Universities in Turmoil Over Visa Revocations
California’s International Students Face Visa Revocations
Concerns Rise Among California Universities Over Visa Revocations
Los Angeles Faces Unrest as Visa Revocations Spark Outrage
Visa Revocations Impact UCLA International Students
UCLA Students Shocked as Visas Revoked Amid National Crackdown
California Universities in Turmoil as Visa Revocations Hit International Students
Visa Revocation Crisis Causes Alarm Among UCLA International Students
California Universities Face Visa Crisis for International Students
Additional Resources
- Daily Bruin: UCLA Faculty Association Protests Visa Revocations
- CBS News: Kill the Cuts National Day of Action
- The Guardian: UCLA Gaza Protests
- Los Angeles Times: UCLA Researchers Trump Funding Cuts
- Reuters: UCLA Sued Over Mob Attack
- Wikipedia: UCLA Main Campus
- Google Search: UCLA protests
- Google Scholar: UCLA international students visa
- Encyclopedia Britannica: UCLA
- Google News: UCLA visa revocation
