Donald Trump’s administration arguably has been one of the most polarizing, particularly surrounding issues around immigration and border security. His orders to Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) to arrest undocumented people has created a sense of panic and anger among many in the nation, resulting in an unusual amount of protests and activism.
More remarkably, the recent rise of student-led activism has set a precedent for future youth activism and made a certain impression on the nation. From student protests at Conroe High School in Texas to various schools in the Bay Area, teenagers have decided to stand up for what they really care about.
Students in high schools all across the Bay Area participated in walk-outs that were a part of the “National Day of Action” on Jan. 30. The protest encouraged people to go on strike to protest ICE’s actions, especially in Minneapolis, and Donald Trump’s administration, according to ABC News. These walk-outs included people going to protest at their local city halls and making their own cleverly worded signs, such as “ICE melts under resistance.”
As of Feb. 2, students from Milpitas High School have organized their walk-out on Feb. 27. But social media accounts aren’t just being utilized to organize protests — they’re a way to effectively and quickly spread awareness about certain issues.
For many teenagers, this is likely the first time they’d be involved in civic engagement. Starting from a young age amplifies and strengthens one’s passion for activism in college, which has historically been a place for student activism and change. Participation in politics from a young age can be beneficial even beyond education through career paths, such as becoming a public defender or a politician.
Organizing protests shows leadership and takes serious commitment, and even participation in protests shows the same care for a cause. This suggests a certain level of critical thinking and empathy in those who go out and spread awareness for their cause, regardless of party affiliation.
The effects of protests are not limited to students; protests and activism against Trump’s administration all across the nation have also increased, such as the aforementioned “National Day of Action” and “general strike.” In fact, The Guardian reports that there was a 133% increase in protests from 2017 to 2025 and that there have been well over 2,000 protests in the United States.
Protests, when they have clear goals, are able to mobilize to make change. Historical precedent shows this, from the American Revolution to the Civil Rights Movement to women’s suffrage. Only time will tell if the anti-ICE and Trump protests across the nation will create significant change, but the exponential rise in resistance and challenge among people from all walks of life creates a possibility for real change.
