An 18-year staple of the Victoria Day Parade won't be taking part in the festivities this year.
The Kent Lake High school marching band's trip to Victoria has been canceled over border enforcement concerns.
Kelly Kurta, Executive Director with Victoria Festival society says the parents and teachers down there are devastated.
“This one student said it’s time our time to shine, we don’t have an opportunity to shine down here but when we go to Victoria we shine. Everyone gets to see us and love us and we love what we do.”
Kurta says the story is getting a lot of attention in the Seattle Area and people are trying to get the decision reversed.
“The actual performances and experience that the US bands bring to Canada has been a real education for our kids to see.”
The Seattle Times reported that the Kent school board cancelled all international field trips because of the sometimes confusing stance President Donald Trumps' administration takes on border enforcement and adequate documentation.
The Victoria Day Parade is scheduled for May 22.