Heard across the nation
Immigration rally brings hundreds of students to Free Speech Area in support of human rights
Ryan Tubongbanua / The Collegian
“Every time they need a diversion, they point to illegal immigrants,” said Gloria Hernandez, a community member. Students came to a rally in the Free Speech Area in support of immigration rights, many wearing white in support. |
By Rebecca Martin
The Collegian
Students, faculty and community members shouting “si se puede,” which means yes we can in Spanish and “the people united will never be defeated” could be heard in the Free Speech Area and beyond.
A rally, featuring speakers and an open mic, was held Monday for immigration rights at Fresno State as well as in cities across the country. Sponsored by M.E.Ch.A. and other campus organizations, the Free Speech Area consistently held 300 people, with people coming and going throughout the rally. Many wore white shirts as a sign of support to not work or go to school.
Community member Gloria Hernandez, who said she has been involved in protests at Fresno State since the 1960s, said the government is making immigrant rights an issue as a diversion from other issues.
“Every time they need a diversion, they point to illegal immigrants,” Hernandez said.
Hernandez said immigration rights do not just affect Mexicans, but Hmongs, African and other undocumented immigrants in Fresno.
She said it is the working class that can make a difference in the country, and immigrants are part of this group.
“They’re working and they’re putting into Social Security,” Hernandez said.
Students in support of immigration rights held signs in the crowd and on the stage, which included one sign that read, “Injustice to One is Injustice to all.”
During the open mic, business major Robert Babcock who described himself as a “white conservative” said while he does not support illegal acts he supports immigration rights.
“There’s no reason to keep good people out [of the United States] that want to work. There’s no economic reason, no moral reason,” Babcock said.
Fresno State student Walter Ramirez said the events going on will help continue the fight for immigration rights.
“Now people aren’t just turning their backs. They’re turning,” Ramirez said.
He urged students to vote in the next election, and said voices against the proposed immigration legislation will be heard this way.
“Students, I know you’re busy. But if you have the right to vote, go do it,” Ramirez said.
Hernandez agreed. She said the government is afraid of angry voters. She said not everyone marching are illegal, like many people thought, and encouraged people able to vote to do so.
Carlos Perez, chair of the Chicano and Latin American Studies department, said it is United States policies that have created current immigration problems. The immigrants in the U.S. are a direct result of President Ronald Reagan’s policies, he said. He specifically mentioned American intervention in Central America that led to regional instability.
“Put this immigration issue in a larger context. Don’t just see it as an immigration issue. See its roots,” Perez said.
Comment on this story in the News forum >>
|
