On Feb. 9. Fishers High School students protested U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) by leaving the building during the second period block. The protest occurred over the duration of the period. The participating mass of students exited near the bus doors and walked together in solidarity. Many students joined for a multitude of reasons and felt strongly about participating. 

“I attended the walkout because I’ve seen what ICE has done to other cities,” senior Mason Winterhalder said. “[I] will not stand idly by when they come [to] Fishers.” 

Freshman Evelyn Roberts estimated that at least 200 students were in attendance; however, several large groups got separated, so the accurate number of attendees was difficult to determine. Her group walked along E 131 St and looped down, eventually returning to school by crossing the bridge east of the building. 

“I knew that this would probably get talked about,” Roberts said. “Participating made me feel like I’m contributing to the resistance.” 

Some students had convictions that impacted their decision to participate. Freshman and Iraqi immigrant Delak Alkhalidi cited a personal value. 

“I believe no one is illegal, no one will ever be illegal. We are all just humans,” Alkhalidi said. 

She elaborated further on her motivations. 

“No matter what background you come from—languages you speak—or what you look like; you matter as a human and American.” 

Junior Nova Groover noted a sense of pride in her school during the walkout experience. Groover felt inspired by other students by the number of students attending and the support from the crowd. 

“At one point my voice started going out,” Groover said. “This girl gave me her water and people were constantly offering their jackets, hats and gloves. It was just such a cool experience.”
The sentiment of pride and empowerment was echoed by sophomore Sophie Opper. Opper observed cars honking and people recording. She noted people in their backyards or looking through their windows. 

“It was truly an empowering experience, and it made me proud to see how many Fishers students were fighting for a cause as serious as this,” Opper said.