College campuses have traditionally been centers of activism, where students unite around social causes, advocate for institutional change, and amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard. From civil rights sit-ins to climate change protests, student-led movements have influenced national conversations and led to substantial progress.
With access to education, diverse perspectives, and a supportive community, college students are in a unique position to challenge the status quo and advocate for the issues that matter most to them.
At Augustana University, two students are continuing the tradition of activism in their own unique ways. Alonna Smith and Abigail Joy have taken part in protests, aiming to ignite meaningful change both on campus and in the wider community. Through their efforts, they are not only raising awareness but also demonstrating that even in a small community, dedicated individuals can create a lasting impact.
Alonna Smith, a freshman, became actively involved in protests in 2020 and 2021 following the murder of George Floyd. Recognizing her position as a white individual, Smith felt a moral obligation to stand in solidarity with Black communities. Smith attended the marches in Sioux Falls during 2020 and 2021. She recalled that the protests began very peacefully but became more chaotic as they faced pushback. Despite the pushback, Smith said she sees a great importance of presence over prominence in protests.
“For me, it’s about being present,” Smith said. “It’s not about taking over the conversation but just showing up and making it clear that I care about this.”
Smith views protests as essential responses to political systems that often fail to represent all constituents.
“We live in a democracy, but so many don’t vote, or we end up with politicians who don’t represent us, it feels,” Smith said. “Protesting is a way for your voice to be heard and for your community to take notice.”
Similarly, Abigail Joy, a sophomore at Augustana, said she sees the role of student protests as a way to promote diverse perspectives and sustaining movements.
“Protesting is crucial as it demonstrates the existence of opposition and alternative perspectives,” Joy said. “Student involvement, even as a minority opinion, ensures the longevity of movements. Student protests raise awareness and embody pluralism in action.”
A survey conducted by BestColleges In October 2024 revealed that more than one-third of college students have participated in or
plan to engage in protests, walk-outs, or anti-war encampments on their campuses. Specifically, 37% of students indicated such involvement.
In reaction to the surge in campus activism, many universities have implemented stricter policies to manage demonstrations. Notably, more than 100 institutions have banned camping on their grounds to halt prolonged protest activities.
Legal Challenges and Government Actions
The intersection of student activism and immigration status has led to significant legal challenges. The Trump administration has taken measures affecting student protesters, particularly targeting noncitizen participants. For instance, Yunseo Chung, a 21-year-old Columbia University student and legal permanent resident, faced deportation proceedings after her involvement in pro-Palestinian protests. She has since sued the administration, alleging that immigration enforcement is being used to suppress free speech.
Similarly, Momodou Taal, a doctoral student at Cornell University, had his student visa revoked due to alleged involvement in disruptive protests, reflecting a broader governmental effort to penalize noncitizens for campus activism.
The narratives of students like Smith and Joy, coupled with recent developments, underscore the dynamic landscape of campus activism. While student protests serve as vital expressions of dissent and catalysts for change, they also navigate complex terrains involving institutional policies and governmental actions. As these movements evolve, they continue to shape and reflect the broader discourse on civil liberties, representation, and the role of activism in democratic societies.
