Solidarity

From the Portland High School Website:

Portland is the largest city in Maine with a population of nearly 70,000. It features industrial and business interests, professional sports, an orchestra, theaters, museums, a busy port and working waterfront, an international jetport and lively arts district. One of three public high schools in the city, Portland High is among the oldest public high schools in the nation. Portland High School is a comprehensive four-year school located in the downtown district.

There are 791 students enrolled as of September 15, 2025. Approximately 40% of our student population is made up of immigrants representing 39 different countries and 26 languages, making Portland High School one of the most diverse high schools north of Boston. PHS cultivates the academic, social, emotional and civic skills of every student by fostering a mindset of lifelong learning and inspiring students to become dynamic participante in our local and global community. 

In 2000...our family moved from a predominantly wealthy white suburb into Portland in search of more opportunities and diversity for our two boys. We found it...and we love our vibrant, immigrant welcoming city on the Maine coast. 

Both Nate and Sam went to Portland High School and Paul and I are proud of the school's support and commitment to immigrant and non-traditional students. 

Ice agents have come to Maine and have named their mission "Operation Catch of the Day." I think that is despicable. They are targeting students and residents just because of their race and regardless of citizenship status often using violent and inhumane tactics.

Attendance at all Portland schools is down and immigrant families are urged to shelter in place. 

Paul and I joined a small group of Portland High School students and faculty on January 20th to protest the inhumane and targeted acts of violence by ICE against their fellow classmates and their families.

Earlier this evening we attended a Minnesota/Maine solidarity protest and we were impressed with the turnout and the energy of the crowd. We are heading to Lewiston tomorrow...another targeted immigrant welcoming city. 

Even in the chaos...there is always joy. We have walked by these lights going to protests during the day many times...but this is the first time in the dark. 

I think they're magical. 

For some reason I was not able to reply directly to a comment on the blog this morning. If you leave a comment...I can still publish it, and I will respond in a separate comment until I can figure it out. I may have to consult Clarke this weekend...she is my tech support and can usually figure out anything.