Protesters gathered late March 6 in Anaheim’s historic downtown district against President Donald Trump’s anti-immigration policy and his attempt to dismantle The Department of Education. This comes as protests across Orange County have emerged calling for legistlative action against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids.

The Orange County Youth Movement, with support from the Orange County Communities Organized for Responsible Development (OCCORD) and other community organizers, gathered at Pearson Park at 4pm this afternoon. They were joined by OC Board Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, Anaheim City Council Member Carlos Leon, Fullerton School District Trustee Vanesa Estrella, and former council member Dr. Jose Moreno.

Passing drivers held their horns in solidarity with the march

Indigenous organizers opened the event with an opening speech and prayer. Several organizers gave speeches and remarks demanding protection for immigrants. Protesters also demanded to end all collaboration between local law enforcement and ICE. Several local officials signed their petition and pledged solidarity with the movement.

Fullerton School District Trustee Vanesa Estrella signing The Orange County Youth Movement petition

Vanesa Estrella offered her support and pledged to fight for both immigration and education reform. Regarding the intersection between immigrants and education, she stressed the importance of showing solidarity for the voiceless in times of duress. She addressed threats facing education as a disservice to the public, especially low income children. She also said the march shows immigrants in Anaheim that they are supported and advocated for by the community.

Student organizers led the crowd through Harbor Blvd. and across Lincoln Ave. towards Anaheim City Hall late afternoon. They chanted “Education, not deportation” as passersby lent their support. Attendees shared their concerns and sentiments during a vigil held on the steps of City Hall. City Hall employees stood outside and watched as the group chanted and pledged to fight for their community.

These protests come as President Trump persists on dismantling the Department of Education alongside his continued raids on immigrant communities. In a surprise move, The White House pulled an executive order that dissolved the department slated to be signed this morning (Mar 6). White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt called reports of Trump signing the order as “fake news”. Meanwhile, top officials expressed potential blowback that could arise from eliminating the department.

Education Secretary Linda McMahon said she would spearhead Trump’s agenda as “permitted by law.” Education experts claim the dismantling of the department would disproportionately impact low-income communities as public schools could face severe underfunding. 

Additionally, it will also send government assisted programs like FAFSA and Free Lunch Programs in limbo. The National Center for Education Statistics reported roughly 29 percent of schools participated in free meal programs as of school year 2024-2025. Meanwhile, The National Center for Education Statistics reports that 87.3% of all students received some financial aid for the school year 2022-23. However, an order to dismantle the department would require bipartisan support. Trump’s proposed legislation would need 60 votes from the Senate; votes he doesn’t have. Currently no House or Senate Democrat has shown support for ending the department.

Student and community organizers plan to speak at the upcoming Anaheim city council meeting later this month.

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