Thousands of Students Stage Walk-out in Tucson
by matewan Friday, Mar. 31, 2006 at 1:36 PM

Thousands of students across Tucson left classes today for the fifth straight day, taking to the streets to protest HR 4437, legislation that would criminalize undocumented immigrants and their communities. After marching from all directions, students rallied at the downtown federal building in a massive spontaneous demonstration.

More than 3,000 students from across town left classes today to protest HR 4437 and demand comprehensive immigration reform. Today's walk-out and protest was the largest of five solid days of protest, joining a phenomenon that is sweeping the country.

Among the schools represented today were many middle schools, as several high schools who had participated earlier in the week chose to direct their energies toward organizing for Sunday's Cesar Chavez march and the national day of action on April 10.

Despite appeals by parents and teachers, students once again left their schools - at times climbing over fences that had been locked in attempt to prevent the protests. Police response was reserved. Traffic was tied up through much of downtown. It is reported that one student from Hohokam high school was struck by a car after a frustrated driver hurled racist slurs at her. This report has not yet been confirmed.

After rallying at the federal building and the federal courthouse for several hours, many students boarded busus to return to classes, while still others attended a rally organized at Pueblo High School.

Photos and audio of today's demonstration will be posted soon..

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