On a poignant Wednesday afternoon at Vallejo’s waterfront, hundreds came together, chanting, “The people united will never be divided.” This gathering, a powerful protest against rampant nationwide deportations, saw residents marching along Georgia Street and Sonoma Boulevard. Organized by Paulina and Lupe Puente, the rally embodied collective resistance as participants waved two large Mexican flags, asserting solidarity with the Hispanic community against President Trump’s aggressive immigration policies.
Vallejo residents Ariana Perryman and Elizabeth Varela expressed their resolve, with Varela stating, “We’re here to stand behind those who can’t speak and speak for those who can’t.” For them, the towering flags symbolized a commitment to justice and a rejection of the narrative asserting immigrant unworthiness. As Perryman poignantly remarked, as an indigenous person, she feels insulted by insinuations that immigrants do not belong, affirming that, historically, indigenous peoples are those who rightfully occupy the land.
The rally energized by Anna Garcia, a passionate Vallejoan, illuminated the personal toll of immigration struggles. “Because of the lack of a piece of paper, I’ve had to struggle more than you can imagine,” she shared, embodying the emotional weight many feel. Garcia immigrated at 18, sacrificing family time for educational and professional dreams, highlighting her ongoing separation from her mother across the border, which she described as an ongoing sacrifice.
Garcia, a central figure in organizing the event, urged attendees to speak out for human dignity and respect. “It’s time we use our voice to demand the respect that we all deserve,” she declared. After her address, others took their turns at the microphone, sharing stories of fear, pride, and aspirations for equality. Their narratives stretched beyond immigration, encompassing movements for Black rights and LGBTQ+ rights, weaving a rich tapestry of shared struggles.
Jeriann Guzman, a courageous veteran, transgender woman, and Native American, encapsulated the rally’s spirit with a powerful assertion: “I won’t be erased.” She vowed to protect future generations from fear, standing firmly alongside her community in solidarity. Guzman’s words resonated as a rallying cry, affirming that no one would be silenced or marginalized in the face of adversity, fostering a profound sense of unity among attendees.
Hundreds gathered at Vallejo’s waterfront to protest against mass deportations, emphasizing unity with chants and symbols of resistance like Mexican flags. Organizers, including Anna Garcia, shared personal stories of struggle and sacrifice, advocating for respect and dignity for all. The rally included voices from diverse communities, affirming a collective stance against discrimination, with Jeriann Guzman embodying the shared resolve: “I won’t be erased.”
The Vallejo rally was a vibrant testament to the resilience and unity of those affected by harsh immigration policies. Through collective voices and powerful stories, marchers emphasized the importance of respect, dignity, and fighting against oppression in all forms. From personal sacrifices to communal strength, the event highlighted a commitment to ensuring that no one’s identity or struggles would ever be erased from history.
Original Source: www.timesheraldonline.com
