Federal immigration agents detained a Massachusetts high school student on his way to volleyball practice, mistaking him when he drove his father’s car.
The May 31 arrest of Marcelo Gomes Da Silva, 18, has triggered protests and walkouts at Milford High School, where he is an 11th-grade student, according to the Milford Daily News, part of the USA TODAY Network.
The school had its graduation a day after Immigration and Customs Enforcement detained Gomes Da Silva while he was heading with teammates to practice. The Brazilian teen was set to perform drums in the school’s band at the June 1 graduation ceremony.
Milford High School Principal Joshua Otlin said at the graduation ceremony that the community couldn't pretend all was well.
“There is fear and anxiety, where there should be hope and confidence,” he said on the school’s turf field. “There is wrenching despair and righteous anger, where there should be gratitude and joy.”
