Hundreds of people marched through the streets of San Diego’s Barrio Logan neighborhood in response to recent immigration enforcement actions. The procession culminated in a vigil at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, where participants voiced concerns and called for policy changes.
A United Front
Faith and Community Mobilize
The demonstration drew a diverse crowd, including faith leaders and members from 40 different congregations across San Diego County. Some participants traveled by charter bus to join the procession. The event was marked by hymns, including lyrics such as “Bring your hopes and bring your dreams, mercy flows, and love redeems,” and the carrying of posters.
Participants expressed a range of emotions, with Dinora Reyna, an event organizer, stating, “I think there’s a lot of pain and sadness and trying to figure out really where do I place that.”
Focus on ICE Activity
The procession paused at five locations reportedly impacted by ICE activity, where participants offered prayers. Neighbors observed the march as it moved through the community. Speakers at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church directly addressed federal leaders, urging them to reconsider policies perceived as detrimental to undocumented immigrants.
Bishop Michael Pham of the Roman Catholic Diocese of San Diego stated, “We have to come together to raise our voice, raise our awareness, that life is sacred, dignity and values need to be uphold.” He further clarified, “We oppose the indiscriminate mass deportation of people.”
Brian Rickling expressed a sentiment shared by many, saying, “What I’m seeing right now, with ICE, with our government and the cruelty to people, is not right that’s not the United States that I know.” Reyna added, “What affects one person really impacts all of us.”
What’s Next?
It is possible that organizers will plan further demonstrations or advocacy efforts to continue raising awareness about their concerns. Faith leaders may seek direct meetings with federal officials to discuss policy changes. The event could also inspire similar actions in other communities facing increased immigration enforcement. However, without further developments, these remain potential outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the procession?
The procession was held in response to recent immigration enforcement activity in San Diego and across the country.
Who participated in the event?
The event included faith leaders and community members representing 40 different congregations from across San Diego County. Organizers reported more than 1,600 people were present.
What were the main demands of the participants?
Participants asked federal leaders to change policies they believe undermine the dignity and humanity of undocumented immigrants, specifically opposing “the indiscriminate mass deportation of people.”
How might communities respond to continued immigration enforcement?
