Gresham rally spotlights importance of immigrants

GRESHAM, Ore. (KOIN) -- Monday's "Day Without Immigrants" rally began with a simple call on social media to gather at SE 182nd and Stark in Gresham. By late afternoon, a police-estimated 150 people gathered in protest against President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown.

Jeanette Hernandez, who came to the rally in the early afternoon, said "everybody is worried, very, very worried" about the mass deportations and ICE raids. The Gresham rally was part of a nationwide protest.

Organizers told KOIN 6 News this movement aims to raise awareness about the importance of immigrants to the economy and society.

"We do provide a lot to this country. We're trying to make it known by not buying or working or taking our kids to school," Hernandez said.

Immigrant rights advocate Alondra Aranda said Trump's call to deport all the immigrants "is not going to be possible because they need us."

Those who gathered, marched, loudly chanted and waved Mexican flags, provided "a lot of support, a lot of love," Aranda said. "It's honestly amazing."

Gresham police said the protest was legal, though they kept an eye on things. Local law enforcement, including both Gresham and Portland police, publicly promised not to take part in immigration raids since they have no authority to enforce federal policy -- and Oregon is a sanctuary state, as are many cities.

"We just want to let everyone know that we, as people of color, we come together and you know we're just here to, like, let the word out," Aranda said.

Another similar rally is planned for 1 p.m. Sunday at Pioneer Courthouse Square in Portland.