Emi Wang

Protest against SB 1070 increases

The two resolutions passed by the U.S. Conference of Mayors on Monday condemning SB1070, calling for its repeal and urging federal immigration reform serve as a much-welcomed signal that local officials stand firmly against Arizona’s severe immigration law. But beyond government organs, the groundswell of opposition continues to be fomented by individual citizens and grassroots organizations.

Throughout the spring, the Arizona Diamondbacks have faced protests in cities such as Chicago, Houston and most recently, Boston, and the Major Leagues Baseball Players Association pointedly denounced the legislation in April. Protesters noted that nearly 28 percent of major league baseball players are immigrants and that almost a third of players are of Latino descent.

Meanwhile, in response to amendments passed by the Massachusetts Senate that restrict illegal immigrants’ access to government benefits, the Student Immigrant Movement has camped outside the State House since June 7th in a twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week vigil. Comprised of undocumented students and other supporters, they are also pushing for the passage of the DREAM Act, which would provide a path to permanent residency for immigrant students.

Their efforts highlight the critical need to continue to demonstrate against Arizona’s immigration law and to prevent similar copycat legislation from being enacted in other municipalities and states. The protests also underline the truth that immigrants—as students, workers and members of our communities—have been and continue to be a crucial and productive force in our society.

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Posted at 2:02 PM, Jun 16, 2010 in Immigration
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