Hundreds of Grand Junction High School students walk out in political demonstration

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) – Hundreds of Grand Junction High School students joined students from across the country for a school walk out Friday morning.

Students marched up and down North Avenue with signs hoping to make their voices heard.

Student organizer Lochlin said the walkout was inspired by a national shutdown happening across the country. He said he initially expected only 50 students to participate, but word spread and more students joined the demonstration.

“I know people don’t really like politics, but politics are important,” Lochlin said. “And a lot of people are suffering right now because of our politics and I know a lot of people are divided, but it’s important to talk about these things.”

Mesa County Valley School District 51 said they were aware of the student-led protest and issued a statement about the demonstration.

In a statement D51 said:

“District 51 is aware that a student-led protest occurred today at Grand Junction High School in response to national political topics. The district does not organize, endorse, or oppose student demonstrations, but recognizes students’ rights to peaceful expression while prioritizing the safety of students and staff. Participants were directed to move off campus, as organized political demonstrations are not permitted on school grounds. Students who left campus were marked absent for the time they were not in class. District Safety and Security Officers were present, and the protest remained peaceful with students leaving campus without incident. District 51 remains focused on providing a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.”

The high school walkout inspired additional people to protest later in the afternoon at the corner of North Avenue and North 12th Street.

“I’m really heartened to see so many young people out here. Young people walking out of their classrooms today,” said JJ Johnson, a participant. “I was on my morning run, and I saw at least 100 Grand Junction High School students march down 12th Street.”

Fewer people attended the afternoon protest on 12th Street. No counter protesters were observed at the event, though a truck drove by the protesters with a message that said “Honk if you support ICE.”

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