Local students are reportedly organizing a peaceful march against President Donald Trump’s mass deporatations in Richmond on Sunday, Feb. 2.
The community is invited to participate in the march, which is set to depart from Richmond High School at 1 p.m., travel to Taco Bell at 2300 Barrett Ave., then return to the high school.
“We encourage everyone to bring flyers, posters, flags and anything you would like to walk with,” organizers posted on a flyer.
Organizers said they understood if those in fear of deportation decided not to come, reiterating that the community would stand up for them.
On Instagram, a student organizer said the protest aims “to let our immigrant community know we are standing with them not against them.”
“We want our community to know they are being heard and represented and us as the younger generation will be their voice,” the student said. “We have the privilege to not live in fear and use our voice to advocate for them and that is exactly what we will be doing.”
The student asked that marchers remain peaceful.
“We are not a danger or threat to America, we are what make America great and we still stand and protect our friends, family, loved ones and community,” the student said. “Please share, repost, spread the word, bring posters, banners, horns, flags, come out in your cars/trucks etc. Be that voice for others.
Officials from local cities including Richmond and San Pablo have reiterated during this time they are sanctuary cities. A joint statement from Richmond’s mayor and city manager reaffirmed that city police do not inquire about immigration status. In a joint statement among 13 state attorneys general, California Attorney General Rob Bonta joined in the opposition to the mass deportations.
Local authorities encourage anyone in fear to reach out to trusted sources such as Stand Together Contra Costa, a county-wide rapid response deportation advocacy initiative. The 24-hour helpline is 925-900-5151. Learn more at www.StandTogetherContraCosta.org.
