HOUSTON – Houston is set to join a nationwide day of action this weekend as residents plan multiple demonstrations calling for Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE, to leave their communities.
Organizers say the events are part of a national “ICE Out” movement, with protests planned in cities across the country to raise awareness about immigration enforcement practices and conditions inside detention facilities.
Planned Houston-area events:
Friday
One demonstration is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 30, at 6 p.m. outside the CoreCivic ICE Detention Facility. Organizers say the protest will focus on calling for ICE to leave Houston and drawing attention to concerns about immigration detention.
In addition to Friday’s demonstration, students at Conroe High School organized a walkout scheduled for Friday at 1:05 p.m. Organizers say the walkout was intended to raise awareness about what they describe as violence and mistreatment by ICE.
Dozens of students were seen leaving the campus and some jumping the school’s fence to enter a street’s sidewalk.
Sunday
A Houston protest is planned for Sunday, Feb. 1, at 3 p.m. at Ervan Chew Park, located at 4502 Dunlavy St. in the Montrose area. That event is also being organized under the banner “ICE Out of Houston.”
Part of a national movement
Houston’s protests coincide with demonstrations planned nationwide as part of the “ICE Out” day of action. Organizers across the country say the movement aims to amplify community concerns about immigration enforcement and detention practices.
As of now, at least three events are planned in the Houston area. Law enforcement agencies have not announced any road closures or security measures related to the demonstrations.
Residents planning to attend are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings and follow local laws and safety guidelines.