As Youth Return to School, Concerns About Federal Takeover Intensify

August 19, 2025

As Washington D.C. students prepare for the new school year, they face heightened concerns about interactions with law enforcement following the arrival of hundreds of federal agents and National Guard troops from Republican-led states. D.C. State Board of Education Representative LaJoy Johnson-Law emphasizes the critical need for youth to exercise caution in what she describes as a "life-or-death situation" and "state of emergency. " The situation has intensified after President Trump's administration attempted to take control of the Metropolitan Police Department, though a federal judge ruled against this takeover.

Who is affected

District youth, particularly Black and brown students
Immigrants in D.C.
Marginalized communities in D.C., especially east of the Anacostia River
D.C. students returning to school
Young people subject to juvenile curfew zones
Activists advocating for youth safety
D.C. residents generally living under increased law enforcement presence

What action is being taken

Harriet's Wildest Dreams activists are canvassing neighborhoods to protect youth from law enforcement
LaJoy Johnson-Law is visiting Ward 8 schools to assess resources needed for safe passage programs
Community members are filming police interactions to ensure accountability
D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb successfully filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration's attempted takeover of MPD
Activists like Ty Hobson-Powell are engaging in public discussions and livestreaming police interactions
Johnson-Law is working on plans for a town hall to address community issues

Why it matters

The current situation represents what some view as a threat to D.C.'s autonomy and sanctuary city status
Youth safety is at risk during interactions with multiple law enforcement agencies
The increased police presence coincides with the start of the school year, creating anxiety for students and families
There are concerns about civil rights violations and extrajudicial actions by federal agents
The situation highlights longstanding inequities in D.C., particularly in Black and brown communities
The presence of federal forces could exacerbate existing challenges for vulnerable youth who may not know their rights

What's next

Johnson-Law is planning a yet-to-be-announced town hall to help community members bring longstanding issues to the forefront
No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer