A day after a million people took to the streets across the U.S. to show the power of the immigration movement, organizers Tuesday were trying to figure out what tactics were needed next to keep the issue in the forefront.
The next stop: Washington.
Immigrant reform leaders said they were invigorated by Monday’s day of civic participation. While many out West skipped work and school and boycotted businesses, Washington-area immigrants participated in neighborhood rallies and prayer vigils.
The point was to peacefully demonstrate the contributions that immigrants make to the nation, organizers said. There were no reports of participants losing jobs in the Washington area.
“It was beautiful. People are feeling empowered, like they can achieve something,” said Maryland Del. Ana Sol Gutierrez, D-Montgomery. “But we need to continue to put the issue forth.”
Immigration leaders this week are planning their next move. Many are calling for a May 19 demonstration on the National Mall or a 3 million-person march in Los Angeles, Chicago and Washington.
Some leaders are proposing a national coalition that includes the hundreds of local groups that have come forward so that anti-immigration forces can’t divide the movement. Hispanic elected officials from the metro area plan to meet with members of Congress to explain how harsh immigration reform will affect cities, counties and states. And other groups are participating in voter registration campaigns and petitioning their legislators.
“We have to keep the struggle alive until we win amnesty and full rights for all immigrants,” said Carlos Alvarez, spokesman for ANSWER, or Act Now to Stop War and End Racism.
Movement heads to D.C.
» An estimated 150,000 people marched on the Mall on April 10.
» Up to a third of the students from area schools with the largest Hispanic populations were absent.
