Utahns protest against mass deportations with demonstration at the Capitol

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4) — Demonstrators gathered at the Utah State Capitol on Sunday, Feb. 23, to protest against President Donald Trump’s policies regarding increased immigration enforcement.

During the protest, participants carried flags and signs criticizing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids and recent immigration policies from the Trump administration.

“We’re just chasing our dreams like everybody else,” protester Maria Morales told ABC4.com. “We’re just trying to have a better life. That’s why we came here.”

Demonstrators gather to protest President Trump’s immigration policies (Courtesy: MJ Jewkes)

The demonstration on Sunday began at the capitol, where hundreds gathered to share experiences of loved ones being separated since President Trump began his second term and started enforcing increased immigration enforcement.

“I’m out here in solidarity with the immigrant community, just showing support for the people around me that I care so deeply about,” demonstrator Travis Hysell said, adding that he feels it’s important for individuals, regardless of their documentation status, to come out and support.

From the capitol, the group marched down State Street to Washington Square Park. Many protesters told ABC4.com on Sunday that they don’t plan to stop protesting until they see some change.

“Whatever he’s thinking about our people…is wrong and he needs to get a better perspective on us because we’re not bad people,” protester Jordy Cruz said about President Trump.

The protest on Sunday came just days after a similar protest on Presidents’ Day, where demonstrators were outspoken about their disapproval of recent moves by President Trump and his adviser Elon Musk.

Utah has seen several other demonstrations during the month of February, including a flash demonstration against “invaders” by a white supremacist group and protests organized as a direct response to that gathering. Utahns have also shown their support for Ukraine, as well as other marginalized communities in Utah in recent weeks.

Several people were pepper sprayed at one demonstration, and another protester was hit by a car during a separate protest.

With the large number of protests recently, Salt Lake police have encouraged event organizers to secure the proper permits so that officials can assist with road closures and other safety measures.