Concerns and demands for the release of a Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) high school senior, Benjamin Marcelo Guerrero-Cruz, have peaked as the student remains in federal custody. Detained on August 8 by immigration agents, Guerrero-Cruz's absence from Reseda Charter High School has mobilized teachers, students, and community advocates to take action. According to ABC7, the student was picked up in Van Nuys by masked agents as he walked his dog and has been held at the Adelanto Detention Center for nearly two weeks, igniting concern for his health and well-being.
During a rally outside the LAUSD headquarters, Ron Gochez, the president of Unión del Barrio, warned, "We promise you, if you continue to mess with our students, we will fight back," CBS News reported. Supporters of Guerrero-Cruz, including a neighbor who witnessed his detention, are expressing their dismay at the situation's handling and calling for greater compassion and humanity. Guerrero-Cruz, originally from Chile, was anticipating his senior year and graduation before being detained.
Lizette Becerra, a former teacher of Guerrero-Cruz, relayed details of her visit with him at the detention center. She conveyed his anxiety and unwanted detainment despite wanting to be in school. "He is obviously very anxious, does not want to be there. He wants to be in school. It’s been about a week that he’s been in detention now," Becerra told NBC Los Angeles.
Meanwhile, the LAUSD has reinforced its commitment to student safety and well-being. In a statement, the district outlined its comprehensive measures, including the We Are One campaign, providing resources and legal referrals, and maintaining restrictive 'safe zones' around schools. The pledge remains that every child belongs in school, and steps are taken to ensure campuses remain safe and welcoming for all, as noted by NBC Los Angeles.
