Students Rally at University of North Georgia Against ICE
On March 26, over 100 students from the University of North Georgia assembled at the Hoag Student Center for an “ICE OUT” protest, organized by the Students for a Progressive Society (SPS) alongside the College Democrats. The five-hour event coincided with a pre-scheduled table from Turning Point USA (TPUSA), which quickly shifted into a counter-demonstration.
The protest was driven by concerns over the Department of Homeland Security’s announcement regarding a new ICE detention center planned within three miles of the UNG Gainesville campus. Leaders of SPS emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the implications of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the region.
“Being anti-ICE is crucial,” stated Ricky Milland, a sophomore sociology and studio art student and an SPS officer. “It is important to spread awareness, especially on a diverse campus.” SPS estimates indicated that approximately 60 individuals participated directly in the protest, while many others added to the atmosphere as observers or counter-protesters.
Throughout the demonstration, participants utilized materials provided by SPS to craft signage representing their views. These messages ranged from “Fuck ICE” and “No one is illegal on stolen land” to supportive phrases such as “I love ICE.” TPUSA members also contributed by distributing printed signs to promote their organization.
Counter-Protests Emerge Amidst Demonstrations
Chalk messages with anti-immigrant sentiments appeared across the courtyard before the main protest began. Some protesters altered a particular chalk message that read “Immigrants Fuck,” adapting it to “I Fuck Immigrants.” While TPUSA was the most prominent opposing group, its members denied having any connection to the chalk messages.
Ryan Cunningham, president of TPUSA and a senior history major, noted that the overlap in event dates was purely coincidental, yet welcomed the increased visibility for the group as a result. Some TPUSA members expressed enjoyment of the unexpected attention, mentioning that it enhanced engagement during their regular table event.
Debates Over Immigration Policies Erupt
As the events unfolded, discussions about immigration law reform took center stage among TPUSA members. Several expressed their belief in legal immigration but voiced opposition to the idea of abolishing ICE. “I think ICE plays a necessary role,” remarked Gavin Gabriel, a freshman nursing student who supports legal immigration and believes in the necessity of complying with laws. He acknowledged that while ICE doesn’t always operate perfectly, it shouldn’t be dismantled.
Amidst the protests, SPS leaders stressed the importance of maintaining a peaceful atmosphere, advising participants not to engage directly in debates with TPUSA. Jade Sanano, president of SPS, expressed concern over what they viewed as the sometimes aggressive tactics employed by counter-protesters, reaffirming their commitment to a non-confrontational approach.
Campus Security and Student Reactions
Though SPS aimed for a peaceful protest, some counter-demonstrators voiced frustrations over the absence of dialogue. Jackson Bilotti, a freshman finance major, highlighted his desire for open discussions, lamenting that many participants seemed unwilling to engage with opposing viewpoints.
UNG officials and campus police actively facilitated the demonstration, aiming to ensure safety and order. Richelle Keilholz, assistant dean of students, stated their support for students, while UNG Police Sergeant Danny Teeter emphasized their priority of maintaining student safety during the unfolding events.
As the demonstration drew to a close around 1 p.m., the crowd had started to disperse, with approximately 30 individuals still actively protesting and around 20 engaged in counter-protests. SPS leaders indicated they plan to continue advocating for social justice, possibly organizing future demonstrations to amplify their advocacy efforts.
