Grand Valley State University students organized a protest Wednesday, April 15, that will lead to a meeting with President Philomena Mantella to discuss University ICE policies.
The Progressive Student Union (PSU) organized the protest to advocate that GVSU institutes sanctuary campus policies. The group started at the Cook Carillon Tower and made their way to Zumberge Hall, where they organized a sit-in. Members of the group would not leave Mantella’s office until they could confirm a meeting with the president.
PSU has been protesting for sanctuary policies for over a year, but this is the first time the group staged a sit-in. After an hour of sitting inside Zumberge Hall, PSU was granted a meeting with Mantella. The organization will be meeting with the president Friday, April 24.
Lucas Rourke, a freshman involved in the PSU, explained why he believes it essential to ensure there will be no collaboration with federal immigration enforcement agencies and GVSU. He believes it is important to ensure the safety of everyone on campus so that the community feels welcome.
“You’re supposed to be able to focus on your work and getting your degree, and not having to worry about if ICE were to come on campus and detain you, your friends and your classmates,” Rourke said.
PSU member Owen Frassetto stated that the University needs proactive policies to ensure the safety of the community. He pointed out that four GVSU students had their international visas revoked by the Trump administration, and mentioned the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti.
Frassetto also pointed out that building unity within the GVSU community was essential for this protest. Eight student organizations endorsed the initiative. These organizations were GVSU Students For Abdul, Anthropology Club, Latinos in Healthcare, Diverse Educators for Change, Belong Beyond Borders, Neuro Queers, Book Club and Skate Club. During the protest, a member of Students for Abdul gave a speech.
Frassetto stated he has met with other administrators over the years, but never with Mantella.
“Now that we are scheduled to meet with Mantella for the first time, it is her responsibility to come to the table and commit to real sanctuary policies at GVSU,” stated Frasseto. “Progressive Student Union won’t rest until she does, and we plan to win that on Friday.”
