A planned student protest at Enumclaw High School in Washington state spiraled into chaos on February 13th, culminating in the arrest of two female students. The walkout, initially intended as a demonstration against ICE, quickly devolved into a scene of confrontation and escalating aggression.
Approximately 100 to 150 students abandoned their classes, marching towards City Hall while chanting slogans. Their voices echoed with phrases like “No justice, no peace” and “Immigrants are welcome here,” but the demonstration also included overtly hostile language directed at ICE.
Independent journalist Vivian Ivy was present to document the event, hoping to understand the students’ motivations. While some engaged in peaceful dialogue, explaining their reasons for protesting, others exhibited volatile behavior, throwing objects and shouting obscenities.
The situation rapidly deteriorated when one student physically attacked a companion of the journalist, reportedly following a heated verbal exchange. As the aggressor attempted to flee, police officers swiftly intervened, taking her into custody amidst resistance and vocal outbursts.
A second student became entangled in the arrest, screaming for her mother while actively hindering the officers’ efforts. Witnesses described her attempting to interfere with the initial arrest, further escalating the tension.
Footage captured by Ivy revealed a chaotic scene, with other protesters swarming the police, attempting to obstruct the lawful arrest. The Enumclaw Police Department responded decisively, maintaining control despite the surrounding turmoil.
Authorities confirmed the arrests of the two female students. One faces charges of obstruction for interfering with the initial arrest, while the other is accused of assault, obstruction, and resisting arrest.
Despite initial reports of three arrests, police clarified that only two students were taken into custody. Both students have since been released, leaving behind a stark reminder of the day’s events.
Remarkably, before her arrest, the student who pleaded for her mother had briefly spoken with the journalist, offering a glimpse into her perspective before the situation escalated. The full video of the walkout provides a comprehensive record of the unfolding events.
The Enumclaw Police Department’s swift response drew praise from observers, a stark contrast to experiences where authorities were perceived as hesitant to intervene in similar situations. The incident raises questions about the boundaries of protest and the consequences of crossing into unlawful behavior.
