Wilmington community members and allies from across the region filled city streets near the intersection of Anaheim and Avalon Boulevards on Feb. 22, to attend an Immigration March and Rally organized for grass-roots pushback against mass deportations.
Diverse communities of color standing in strong solidarity with those born abroad, even regardless of lack of citizenship, made their power loudly known at one of the Harbor’s liveliest immigration gatherings. Meanwhile, community-based organizations provided resources to families who are currently targeted by the extremism of Trump administration policies.
“When I called for Wilmington members to join me at a rally and resource fair, I knew that they would come, but the turnout exceeded all expectations,” said Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson (D-Carson).
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“We may step into this march from different walks of life, hold different jobs, or worship differently, but we know that we are united to tell President Donald Trump firmly and clearly that we are not going back.”
In addition to remarks by Gipson at the Wilmington Town Square, other elected officials joined the march to show that they would not be backing down when communities felt at risk. Representative Nanette Barragan (D-San Pedro), representing California’s 44th Congressional District, walked with marchers on Avalon, and L.A.s Councilman Tim McOsker addressed constituents who asked for assurances that the City of Los Angeles’ 15th District would remain safe for families. Representatives from five faith-based organizations provided spiritual comfort during the program, and Banning High School’s marching band joined the rally.
“California is where we all belong,” said Gipson. “In my own family, some of us have real immigration stories and personal reflections on the process of becoming US citizens. We also understand the adversity that working-class communities of color are facing nowadays.”
Immigrants (regardless of citizenship status) can contact Assemblymember Gipson’s District Office for apolitical information about the rights and protections available in the United States, and families are encouraged to attend local Know Your Rights workshops.
