Tensions rose Monday morning at Florida International University as protesters voiced their concern over the school’s participation in ICE’s 287(g) program, which trains campus police to enforce immigration laws. The demonstration coincided with the FIU’s Board of Trustees appointment of former Florida Lt. Governor Jeanette Nuñez as university president, a move seen as aligning the school with Governor Ron DeSantis’ policies.
“Paws off our campus!” chanted students, including senior Dariel Gomez.
“Prospective students… have previously assumed that FIU… would be a safe option for them but they’re seeing all of these developments,” said Gomez. “It’s not a safe option for someone looking to study here.”
The protest followed revocation of 18 international students’ visas. Administrators call this a small percentage. The cooperation with ICE was requested by FIU police Chief Alexander Casas.
President Nuñez defended the program, stating, “[Police Chief Casas] would much rather be in control of that process than let an agent from who knows where come in and run that.”
