Austin Students Protest ICE, Criticize Texas Lawmakers Over Immigration Crackdown

Dozens of students in Austin demonstrate against Trump administration's immigration enforcement policies following recent ICE activity and fatal shootings in Minneapolis.

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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Dozens of students in Austin, Texas, protested the Trump administration's immigration enforcement on Presidents Day, February 16, 2026. The demonstration was prompted by recent ICE activity in Austin and the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis. Students gathered outside City Hall to protest the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and marched to the Texas Capitol.

Why it matters

The student protests demonstrate a growing engagement with national political issues, particularly among younger generations directly affected by or witnessing the impact of immigration enforcement policies. This level of activism could signal a sustained challenge to current policies and a demand for greater attention to the concerns of immigrant communities.

The details

Following the rally at City Hall, the group of roughly 50 protesters marched to the Texas Capitol. Dezaree Walker, a second-year teacher, noted that the recent immigration crackdown has spurred her students to turn into more involved, with students writing letters and making phone calls to oppose federal immigration policies. Attorney General Ken Paxton accused Austin ISD of coordinating student walkouts and launched an investigation into the district, though Austin ISD has denied any collaboration.

  • The protests took place on Presidents Day, February 16, 2026.
  • The protests followed the fatal shootings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti by ICE agents in Minneapolis.

The players

Jacob Saldaña

A senior at Bowie High School who encouraged continued demonstrations despite criticism from the state's governor and attorney general.

Dezaree Walker

A second-year teacher who noted that the recent immigration crackdown has spurred her students to become more involved, with students writing letters and making phone calls to oppose federal immigration policies.

Ken Paxton

The Texas Attorney General who accused Austin ISD of coordinating student walkouts and launched an investigation into the district.

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What they’re saying

“Education and advocacy make a difference. What's happening around the country shapes how our friends and classmates live. The least we can do is acknowledge it, learn about it and stand by them. That is not politics; that is being human.”

— Jacob Saldaña, Senior at Bowie High School (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.