"No More Arizonas" Say DC Rights Activists
Wednesday, April 28, 2010(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)
Condemning Arizona’s passage last week of the “Secure
Communities” program as “racist and perverse,” dozens of labor, community
and immigrant rights activists spoke out forcefully yesterday about the dangers
of collaboration between local police and Immigration and Customs Enforcement
(ICE). “Programs like this are effectively pushing America back to the days of
slave patrols,” said Ron Hampton, Executive Director of the National Black
Police Association, at a press conference and rally outside DC City Council. An
Arizona-like program – which is close to being implemented in the District by
Police Chief Cathy Lanier – further involves local and state police in federal
immigration enforcement, which opponents say will lead to racial profiling and
the erosion of transparency, accountability and due process. “I have hopes
that Chief Lanier will not implement this perverse program,” said DC
Councilmember Jim Graham (D – Ward 1, at right). “If, however, Chief Lanier
refuses to back down, I will produce legislation that will prevent this program
and I need the support from every one of you!” he added as the crowed cheered
“No More Arizonas” and waved signs reading “No Racial Profiling!” Jaime
Contreras – Metro Washington Council, AFL-CIO Executive Board member and Area
Director for SEIU 32BJ – said, “We will not stand by and watch as our
community is targeted. This is not backwards Arizona…this is Washington DC,
the capital of freedom. I hope that Chief Lanier comes to her senses and we will
stand strong next to Jim Graham and the community in opposing this bill.” The
press conference marked the national kickoff of “Uncovering The Truth” – a
weeklong national campaign in more than ten cities to end ICE-police
collaboration. – report/photo by Adam
Wright