John Jay students say immigrant‑awareness event was canceled; Amnesty Club urges clearer policy for controversial topics

Emma Morales, president and founder of the John Jay Amnesty Club and a senior at John Jay High School, told the board the club’s immigrant awareness event — part of a national week of student action — was canceled the day before it was to occur.

“...we were very disappointed. We almost felt as if we were being silenced,” Morales said, describing the event as nonpartisan and focused on personal stories from immigrants, including teachers and relatives of current students. The planned program would have featured guest speakers who intended to share personal immigration experiences and the challenges of settling in the United States.

Daniela Rosado, a John Jay sophomore and the club’s social media manager, told the board the goal was educational: to foster understanding and combat misinformation. “These stories are vital to understanding the challenges and contributions of immigrants,” she said, asking the board to ensure student voices are heard and to consider amending district guidance that governs “controversial issues” so it explicitly addresses student clubs and voluntary events.

Morales and Rosado said the event was voluntary and that students uncomfortable with the topic could opt out. Both urged the district to open communication channels with student groups to prevent last‑minute cancellations and to clarify what policies apply to club activities.

The board’s public comment instructions, read earlier in the meeting, noted the district cannot address individual student or personnel matters in public comment because of state and federal privacy laws. Trustees did not make public decisions on the club’s request at the meeting; the students sought follow‑up and clearer policy guidance.