Opposition to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity prompted calls for a nationwide day of no school, no work, and no shopping. In Northern Nevada, several local businesses and students answered that call.
Several locally owned businesses closed their doors for the day in solidarity with the protest. Participation varied widely, ranging from coffee shops and plant stores to clothing retailers.
Many businesses posted similar messages on social media explaining their decision. Community reaction was varied.
Some residents said they supported the businesses’ decisions and planned to continue shopping there in the future. Others criticized the closures as misguided, saying they would take their business elsewhere.
The protests extended beyond storefronts and into local schools. Students and teachers across the Washoe County School District (WCSD) raised concerns about increased immigration crackdowns, with walkouts reported at several middle and high schools.
Students from Reno High School and Swope Middle School were seen leaving campus around noon to protest, joined by students from AACT, North Valleys, Damonte Ranch, and schools in Sparks. Many said they were participating to support friends and family members affected by immigration enforcement.
The Washoe County School District released a statement acknowledging the protests and affirming students’ First Amendment rights. The district noted that students who leave campus would be marked tardy or absent, depending on the length of time missed.
Others in the community pointed to WCSD Board Policy 1310, which states that political activity is prohibited on district campuses during school hours and may result in disciplinary action.
The Old Blog in the Desert 
Leave a comment