EL PASO, TEXAS (KFOX14/CBS4) — A nationwide general strike drew participation across the country, with people protesting federal policies and calling for change.

In El Paso, the movement took shape through street protests, student walkouts and business closures.

Protesters in northeast El Paso gathered at Joey Barraza and Vino Memorial Park, voicing their opposition to immigration enforcement policies.

“We’re gathering today at the skate park, one to build community and two, to really say that El Paso does not stand for what is happening,” said an El Paso protester.

Jordan Salas reports on Nationwide general strike hits El Paso with protests, walkouts and some closures (Credit: KFOX14)

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The strike also resonated in local schools, where students walked out of classes to express their concerns over federal immigration and enforcement policies.

In nearby Las Cruces, protesters echoed similar sentiments. “It’s important to show support. For all of us to indicate this is not okay. This is not what ICE is supposed to be about. This is not what DHS is supposed to be about,” said a Las Cruces protester.

Many businesses nationwide, including in El Paso, closed their doors in solidarity with the strike.

Others, like Hive Java Lounge in east El Paso, remained open while supporting the movement by donating 15% of the day’s sales to a local immigrant advocacy group. “We’re donating to Etrella Del Paso, and I just hope that they can do something very good with that money,” said Zoraida Dobard, owner of Hive Java Lounge.

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Brave Books in central El Paso also stayed open, offering a space for reflection. “I believe places like bookstores, art galleries, music stores, coffee shops are places that people seek out for refuge,” said Jud Burgess, owner of Brave Books.

Participants hope the strike will spark more conversation and lead to increased oversight of federal actions.

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