Orlando, FL – On Saturday, August 19, a panel of progressive organizations organized by Las Semillas was held at the Orange County Public Library. The purpose of this panel was for progressive organizations to network, present the work they are doing in their communities, and have a discussion about pressing political issues. All of these activities contribute to the goal of building a united front against the DeSantis administration and the deterioration of material conditions, especially for the working class of Central Florida. “Florida’s on fire in more ways than one, so we’re glad to be in concert with anyone trying to put the pieces together,” stated the social media post promoting the event.
Orlando, FL – On August 10, an emergency rally was held in Orlando to address Governor Ron DeSantis’ recent dismissal of State Attorney Monique Worrell.
Minneapolis, MN – On the evening of August 10, 30 immigrant rights supporters gathered for a rally and noise demonstration at Lake Street and Chicago Avenue in south Minneapolis as a response to this summer’s many atrocities and attacks on immigrants at the U.S.-Mexico border, new anti-immigrant laws in states like Florida, and increased border militarization in general.
Dallas, TX – On July 29, around 15 immigrant rights protesters gathered at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Dallas Field Office to protest harsh conditions undocumented migrants are being put through on the border. The protest comes shortly after reports were made from a whistleblower in Border Patrol about extremely cruel policies towards undocumented migrants ordered by the office of the governor of Texas, Greg Abbott, whose policy demands that migrants crossing the Rio Grande River into Texas be thrown back into the river, as well the construction of a barricade of buoys in the river that have razor wire on them, these buoys have resulted in the drowning or serious injury of many undocumented migrants, including children and a pregnant woman.
Orlando, FL – On Saturday, July 1, over 350 community members marched up and down Aloma Avenue against the Governor Ron DeSantis-backed anti-immigrant bill, SB 1718, as well as the governor’s continued attacks on Florida’s LGBTQ community. The sweeping bill, which went into effect that same day, prohibits funding for social services for undocumented immigrants, invalidates driver’s licenses issued to undocumented people by other states, makes it harder for undocumented workers to find jobs, and much more.
Tacoma, WA – A small crowd gathered outside of the Northwest Detention Center (NWDC) at 6 p.m. June 19 in solidarity with the detainees inside protesting inhumane conditions. The NWDC is a privately owned ICE detention center built on the Tacoma tide flats. The rally was called after a group of detainees launched a hunger strike early in the day.
Chicago, IL – At the Little Village Arch on Chicago’s 26th Street, 25 people took to the streets, June 18, and made it known to our community that our action is needed, in response to Florida’s anti-immigrant legislation. People shared stories of previous movements, spoke their truth, stopped traffic, gave literature to those passing, and were supported by the 25th ward alderman.
Los Angeles, CA – On June 17, Centro CSO and allied organizations held a march and rally at La Placita in Los Angeles as part of the Legalization 4 All Network’s Week of Action to protest Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ Senate Bill 1718. The L4A Network called for nationwide protests as SB 1718 is an attack on undocumented immigrants as well as anyone who employs or aids them. For example, hospitals in Florida will be required to ask a patient’s immigration status, while out-of-state driver’s licenses for undocumented people will be outlawed.
Minneapolis, MN – Immigrant rights protesters gathered at East Phillips Park on Father’s Day, June 18, to speak out against the separation of immigrant families and for legalization for all. This action was part of a national call to action from the Legalization for All Network in response to extreme anti-immigrant laws passed in Florida and several other Republican-controlled states, as well as increased militarization of the U.S.-México border.
Jacksonville, FL – On June 1, over 300 members of the immigrant community in Jacksonville came together as part of a statewide day of action to oppose the signing of Senate Bill 1718, discriminatory anti-immigrant legislation that targets individuals still navigating the country's complex immigration system. Organized by Latino news and radio personalities with the help of many of their supporters, the protest showcased the community's commitment to fighting against policies that attack immigrants.