On July 31, 2025, a 20-year-old sophomore pharmacy student at Purdue University, Yeonsoo Go from South Korea, was unexpectedly detained by ICE agents while in Manhattan following a visa hearing. Yeonsoo, an exemplary student pursuing her dreams in the United States, faced unexpected and severe repercussions stemming from this detention. She was held for several days in a facility in Louisiana, far from her friends, family, and support system. Fortunately, she was released on August 4, 2025, but the emotional and mental toll of this experience remains.

Stories like Yeonsoo's highlight the urgent need for policy reforms regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) interventions, particularly in educational settings. Indiana's schools and universities serve as vital platforms for cultivating the aspirations of international students. However, the looming presence of ICE creates an environment of fear rather than a nurturing ground for learning and personal growth.

According to the American Council on Education, international students contributed approximately $42 billion to the U.S. economy during the 2019-2020 academic year. Indiana reaps substantial benefits, both economically and culturally, from these students. Yet, incidents like Yeonsoo's jeopardize not only these contributions but also the integrity of our educational systems. During a statewide ICE operation ("Operation Safe Community — Indiana") that detained 426 individuals in late August and early September 2026, daily attendance at some Indianapolis-area schools plunged from around 95% down to below 40%. 

To effectively support the valuable presence of international students, we must establish boundaries on ICE intervention in school systems. This involves creating a clear protocol for interactions between ICE and educational institutions, ensuring the safety and well-being of students. Schools should be recognized as sensitive locations where immigration enforcement activities are limited and conducted with transparency and respect for all students involved.

We call upon the Indiana Department of Education and local school authorities to take immediate action by implementing policies that restrict ICE activities in school surroundings. Such measures will not only reassure international students and their families but also bolster Indiana's reputation as a welcoming state for global talents.

This petition aims to protect future students like Yeonsoo from undue stress and uncertainty, ensuring that Indiana remains a beacon of hope and opportunity for aspiring minds across the globe. As well as abolishing SB 76 which would punish schools, colleges, and local governments if their employees are seen as not fully cooperating with federal immigration enforcement.

Sign this petition today to stand with Yeonsoo and countless others seeking safety and assurance in our educational environments. Together, let's create a more secure and supportive atmosphere that honors the promise of education without the fear of unwarranted detentions.