EUGENE, Ore. — Demonstrators gathered outside the federal courthouse in Eugene to protest against recent immigration enforcement actions. The protests were sparked by the revocation of visas for four international students from the University of Oregon.
Protesters said they are demanding an end to what they describe as intimidation and fear tactics by the federal government. Many believe these visa revocations are part of a larger pattern affecting immigrant students nationwide.
“I’m very kind of shocked actually, that this is happening right here, and we’re trying to say no,” said Victoria Koch, a demonstrator. “That’s why we’re here demonstrating, that’s why you go to meetings — city council, whatever, commissioner meetings. Because we don’t — we’re a sanctuary state for God’s sake. It’s important to me.”
Organizers said the community should turn their frustration into action. They said they have already raised nearly $20,000 in a legal fund for the affected students. Additionally, they said the Associated Students of the University of Oregon has allocated $150,000 from its annual budget to support students facing visa revocations…