Over 30,000 students in Charlotte-Mecklenburg County stayed home on Monday, Nov. 17, following an escalation of ICE raids under “Operation Charlotte’s Web.” The raids, aimed at targeting criminal illegal aliens, have sparked widespread fear in the community, affecting both schools and businesses. Local officials, including Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles and North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, condemned the operation, emphasizing the impact on residents and calling for targeted enforcement of violent criminals only. The Department of Homeland Security reported that over 200 people were detained during the first three days of the operation.
Massive Student Absenteeism
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools reported 30,339 students absent on Monday, up from an earlier estimate of 21,000. Officials noted that the figure remains unofficial due to factors like preschool attendance and virtual learning participation. Approximately 31% of the district’s student population identifies as Hispanic, highlighting the raids’ potential influence on immigrant communities.
ICE Operation Escalates
The Department of Homeland Security launched “Operation Charlotte’s Web” on Nov. 15, signaling an increased ICE presence in the region. NBC News reported that multiple businesses closed as agents moved through Charlotte to target criminal illegal aliens, creating a climate of fear and uncertainty in public spaces.
School District Reassurances
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools maintained that no immigration enforcement occurred on school property. Assistant Communications Officer Tom Miner said, “Please know there has been no immigration enforcement activity on CMS property, and we have not received any notice that such actions are planned. Therefore, schools will operate on a normal, in-person schedule tomorrow.” He emphasized that student information is protected unless required by law and that immigration officials cannot access campuses without valid warrants or subpoenas.
Community and Protest Response
Protests erupted at First Ward Park with demonstrators rallying against the ICE operations, holding signs reading “No Border Patrol in Charlotte.” Residents voiced concern over the raids’ indiscriminate impact, as ICE targeted individuals in restaurants, grocery stores, churches, and public areas throughout east Charlotte.
Official Condemnations
Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles criticized the raids and addressed former President Donald Trump, stating, “The city of Charlotte is one where we believe in fairness and dignity… Look at our city, look at our people, and make sure that he has the understanding that all of you and I have.” She urged residents to prioritize safety amid the heightened law enforcement activity.
State-Level Criticism
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein condemned the raids on X, urging federal agents to focus on violent criminals rather than ordinary residents. He wrote, “Stop targeting people simply going about their lives because of the color of their skin, as you are doing in Charlotte.” Residents were encouraged to remain peaceful and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement.
Broader Impact and Detentions
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed over 200 detentions in the first three days of “Operation Charlotte’s Web.” The raids have disrupted communities, affected school attendance, and heightened tensions between federal enforcement and local officials advocating for immigrant protections.