Students and community members rally across Coachella Valley during national day of action over ICE activity

Hundreds of students and community members took part in demonstrations across the Coachella Valley today as part of a national day of action addressing concerns over recent activity by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Early this morning, students at multiple campuses were seen walking off school grounds at the start of the day. Later, protesters gathered along major intersections, including Highway 111 and Jefferson Street in La Quinta, where organizers say the location was chosen because of reported recent enforcement activity in the area.

Participants waved signs, chanted, and stood along sidewalks in what organizers described as peaceful demonstrations aimed at raising awareness and calling for greater oversight of federal immigration operations. Protesters cited both local concerns and national incidents as motivation for taking part.

In addition to student walkouts, some local businesses and community members joined the day’s efforts in different ways, including temporary closures or donating portions of sales to legal aid organizations supporting immigrant families. Other businesses chose to remain open while directing proceeds from select items toward community resources.

Organizers of the nationwide effort also encouraged supporters to observe a “no work, no school, no shopping” day, saying the goal was to increase visibility and apply economic pressure while highlighting the human impact of enforcement actions.

Our reporter Brett Rosen spoke with students, organizers, and business owners throughout the Valley about why they participated and what they hope comes from today’s demonstrations.

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