By Briann Wallen
News Editor
A peaceful protest on April 6 showcased a moving display of solidarity, as roughly 150 students, faculty and local community members gathered in front of Buley Library in response to the recent detention of a university nursing student, Keyla, by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Hours before the protest, Sam Norton, spokesperson for Connecticut State Colleges and Universities, addressed the community in a statement that emphasized safety and stability.
“The safety and wellbeing of every member of the Southern community is our top priority,” Norton said.
While recognizing the emotional impact of recent events on campus, Norton reaffirmed the university’s ongoing commitment to inclusion.
“We understand that recent events may be distressing for students, faculty, staff and families, and we are committed to providing support while ensuring that our campus remains safe and welcoming for all,” Norton said.
Norton continued by outlining the atmosphere of the campus community.
“Southern has always been a place where everyone is valued, and we remain steadfast in protecting that inclusive environment,” Norton said.
Norton also pointed to the importance of upholding the right to peaceful expression, especially during moments of tension when students are still processing the news and searching for answers.
“Southern Connecticut State University respects the right to peacefully express views and supports our community’s ability to gather and engage in lawful, respectful dialogue that demonstrates care and consideration for one another,” Norton said.
While university officials focused on institutional reassurance and policy, members of the campus advocacy community also stepped forward during the protest to speak directly to students and offer support.
Among them was Esteban Garcia, chair of the DREAMers Action Alliance, who addressed the crowd on behalf of the organization.
“I’m speaking today not as a representative of the university administration, but on behalf of the DREAMers Action Alliance — a dedicated group of faculty, staff and students who believe that every person on this campus belongs here,” Garcia said.
Acknowledging the weight of the loss, Garcia released a statement promoting solidarity and the broader systemic challenges faced by many students within higher education and beyond.
“Our hearts are heavy today for our fellow student and their family,” Garcia said. “This situation is a painful reminder of the challenges many in our community face.”
Garcia highlighted the organization’s purpose as a support system for those currently struggling.
“We want to be clear: you are not alone,” Garcia said. “Our alliance exists to stand in the gap, offer support and ensure that our campus remains a space where you can feel safe, seen and protected.”
Garcia also pointed students toward additional information regarding support services for undocumented students at the university.
Garcia reinforced the message that help and support remains accessible.
“We are stronger when we look out for one another,” Garcia said. “To our students: we see you, we support you, and we will continue to advocate for you every single day.”
Garcia urged that students who are looking for advocacy and institutional support can access a variety of campus resources online.
Detailed information is available at www. southernct.edu/ undocumented-students.
