MTA speaks out about the detention of a Martha's Vineyard student and his father

The following statement was issued by Massachusetts Teachers Association President Max Page:

The Massachusetts Teachers Association strongly condemns the detention of Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School student Nycolas de Alvarenga Lima and his father, Rogerio da Silva Lima, by ICE agents. A young person was ripped from his community while out fishing with his father, leaving classmates, educators and neighbors shaken and outraged.

We call on leaders at every level to ensure the safety and belonging of all students and their families, regardless of immigration status. No young person should have to live with the fear that a normal day with family could end in detention and separation from their community.

No young person should have to live with the fear that a normal day with family could end in detention and separation from their community.

Across Martha’s Vineyard, educators, tribal leaders, immigrant advocates and neighbors have come together to support this student and his family and to make clear that they belong in this community. We commend the members of the Martha’s Vineyard Educators Association and the many other organizations that acted quickly to support this family and stand up for immigrant students during an incredibly painful moment for the island community. The MTA proudly stands with them and believes that all Massachusetts students and their families deserve safety and stability.