Fred Emerson
Special to The Leader
MAYA SIMONETTI | Special to The Leader
Residents of Fredonia gathered at Barker Commons last Saturday to peacefully protest United States (U.S.) Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
They cited recent arrests in workplaces and public spaces that they say threaten local families and children and contribute to widespread fear throughout their community.
Protesters demanded ICE be defunded or abolished, citing what they described as human rights abuses, reckless and criminal conduct and unrestrained aggression.
“ICE is the secret police for the regime that’s in power,” one demonstrator said.
“They’re illegally spiriting people away; literally human trafficking,” another added.
Protesters pointed to ICE arrests at workplaces, courthouses and even near schools, saying the actions put children at risk.
ICE has previously stated that its enforcement efforts only target individuals who violate federal immigration law.
Giulia, who asked that her last name not be published to prevent retaliation, organized the protest after posting a flyer on campus.
She described it as “one of the easiest things I’ve ever done” and urged others to take action in support of immigrants’ safety.
Giulia said she wanted action, safety for immigrants and a show of support for those living in fear because of ICE. “This is happening everywhere, even in the smallest towns,” she said. “Success can be small; simply getting everyone here is phenomenal.”
Participants said the protest was about protecting those with less privilege.
“I’m dripping with privilege, but I know there are people out there who aren’t,” one protester said.
For many attendees, success meant being seen, meeting other activists and sparking a conversation about rights and safety in the village.
Older residents from across the village turned out in large numbers, recalling past protests.
“We’ve been through a lot of things; a lot of us were active in the anti-war protests,” one marcher said.
“A lot of us are old hippies,” another added.
They revived chants from earlier demonstrations, including “The people united will never be defeated,” and “No justice, no peace.”
Students from the campus of SUNY Fredonia spread the word online and showed up in person.
Many had also taken part in the last No Kings protest at Barker Commons on Oct. 18.
One student said he was here to challenge complacency and apathy while others face oppression, while another put it more plainly: “To oppose oppression, my friend!”
Overall, an estimated 100 residents attended the demonstration, including students, older residents and members of the Chautauqua Action Team (CAT).
Despite the cold weather, the protest continued for approximately two hours.
Many raised handmade signs and used megaphones to amplify chants as passing drivers either honked in support or shouted obscenities.
Photographer Maya Simonetti was on-site capturing the event; her photos are used with her permission and will be credited in the paper.
Some drivers honked and gave a thumbs-up, while others cursed and gave the finger.
One passerby shouted that an older attendee was a grandmother, and another barked that the group was a “bunch of baby-eating liberals.”
Several bystanders threatened physical violence but declined to comment when asked.
Despite this, no violent confrontations occurred.
The march drew nods, waves and smiles from many local shopkeepers of the village.
Organizer Giulia acknowledged that some on campus might hold negative opinions about students’ involvement but maintained that an active student body is important.
The Chautauqua Action Team (CAT) also attended, tying the protest to broader local and national efforts.
Giulia said additional events, including a No Kings protest on March 28, are planned.
The protest concluded without incident.
Several attendees said they viewed the turnout as a measure of success and are already planning additional events.