According to multiple Instagram accounts, there will be a student-led District 219 walkout on Friday, March 6, at 12:15 p.m. in protest of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
An Instagram account (@d219.ice.walkout) originally created a post on Tuesday, March 3, but the account was later deleted Wednesday, March 4.
“District 219 ICE walkout Friday March 6 at 12:00 p.m.,” the post said. “[Principals] and district board have been informed. Re-post and spread among friends and let’s stand up.”
While the post claimed that principals and district administration were notified, Niles West Principal Steve Parnther was not contacted about the walkout. School Resource Officer (SRO) Nick Larson was also not made aware of it.
“I have not been contacted by anyone regarding a planned demonstration, nor have I seen anything circulating in reference to a walkout/demonstration,” Deputy Superintendent Roszena Haskins said. “I am working with principals to verify the credibility of this information.”
A second Instagram account (@nnf_ice_walkout) was created on March 4, and a similar account (@d219.walkoutnw23) was created later that night. A few hours later, a fourth account was created (@nileswestwalkout). According to a post via @nileswestwalkout, the walkout will be happening on March 6 at 12:15 p.m. The post instructs students to leave through door 24 and door 1.
Senior Michelle Rhodes heard about the potential walkout but believes it needs to be planned better.
“It wasn’t really well put out there, so I just know the timing of it,” Rhodes said. “I understand what it’s for, but I don’t know if it was really well planned. There was no exact location on where to go and how we’re going to do it.”
On March 5, at around 9:30 a.m., @nileswestwalkout posted an Instagram story claiming that Parnther had been notified of the walkout.
“Principal emailed back,” the story said. “They are aware of the walkout and we are meeting with them today because they want to help ensure the safety of all students participating. DM with any questions (this is the only account for the walkout that has been approved).”
According to Parnther, administration is preparing West’s safety team for the walkout, if it does occur.
Students who participate in the walkout will miss sixth period and receive an unexcused absence.
