Utah Valley University (UVU) is set to host a highly anticipated job fair on Wednesday, attracting students eager to explore career opportunities. However, the event is also expected to be a focal point of contention, as U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will be present. This has prompted a significant response from various student groups and community organizations, some of whom plan to protest the agency’s participation due to its controversial policies and actions regarding immigration enforcement. The job fair, scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. in the Student Center, is designed to connect students with potential employers from diverse sectors, including government, technology, healthcare, and education. UVU officials have noted that this event is crucial for students looking to secure internships and full-time positions. With representatives from over 100 companies expected to attend, students are encouraged to bring resumes and prepare for on-the-spot interviews. However, the presence of CBP at the job fair has raised concerns among many students and local activists. The agency, which is tasked with enforcing U.S. immigration laws and protecting the nation’s borders, has faced scrutiny for its practices, particularly in relation to the treatment of immigrants and asylum seekers. Activists argue that having CBP representatives on campus sends a troubling message to students, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds or who are undocumented themselves. Jessica Martinez, a student leader and member of the UVU chapter of the Dreamers Union, expressed her concerns, stating, "For many of us, CBP represents fear and hostility. Their presence at a university job fair is not just a normal recruitment effort; it feels like a threat to our community. We plan to make our voices heard and stand in solidarity with those who are affected by their actions." In contrast, some students welcome the opportunity to engage with CBP representatives, viewing it as a chance to learn about career paths within federal law enforcement. James Thompson, a senior majoring in Criminal Justice, noted, "It’s important to understand all aspects of law enforcement, including the challenges they face. It’s an opportunity to ask questions and gain insight into a career that is often misunderstood." The UVU administration has emphasized its commitment to providing a platform for all employers, stating that the job fair is open to all organizations, regardless of their policies. University spokesperson Emily Johnson remarked, "We believe in fostering an inclusive environment where students can explore a wide range of career options. While we recognize that some may disagree with certain agencies, we view this as a chance for dialogue and understanding." In addition to the presence of CBP, it is noteworthy that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has not registered for the event. This absence has sparked conversation among students and community members about the differing roles and public perceptions of the two agencies. While CBP deals primarily with border security and customs, ICE is more focused on immigration enforcement within U.S. borders, which has led to its own set of controversies and public protests. The protests organized by student groups are expected to take place outside the job fair venue, where demonstrators will hold signs and distribute flyers to raise awareness about the impact of CBP’s policies on immigrant communities. Organizers stress that their goal is to advocate for a more humane immigration system and to highlight the experiences of those affected by deportations and family separations. As the job fair approaches, the discourse surrounding CBP’s participation reflects broader societal debates about immigration and law enforcement in the United States. Many students are grappling with the complexities of these issues, and the job fair has become a microcosm of the national conversation. The UVU job fair will proceed as planned, with students from various disciplines looking to make connections and secure future employment. However, the dual narratives of opportunity and protest are set to shape the atmosphere of the event, underscoring the ongoing tensions in the community regarding immigration policies and enforcement. As students navigate their career aspirations, they will also be engaging in a vital dialogue about the implications of federal policies on their lives and futures. In conclusion, the job fair at Utah Valley University will not only serve as a platform for students seeking employment but also as a venue for civic engagement and protest. The presence of Customs and Border Protection is sure to stir emotions and discussions that extend beyond the career landscape, reflecting a community navigating the complexities of immigration and enforcement in contemporary America.