Story by Nina Strochlic
Video by Blake Hamilton and Whitney Highfield
Hundreds of protesters hoisted colorful hand-painted signs over their heads as a crowd gathered in downtown Portland to rally for immigration reform. It was early afternoon on May 1, a historical day for celebrating workers. Attendees were from all walks of life – religious, political, and student groups had tables, fliers, and signs scattered in a circle around the park.
Small children touting American flags scampered around legs, and a small stand selling fresh tamales sent a delicious aroma into the air. Many turned out to protest the recently passed bill in Arizona (SB 1070) that makes it illegal for immigrants not to carry identification papers with them at all times, and allows police to detain anyone suspected of not being a citizen.
However, not everyone at the rally condemned the new stricter immigration laws. A large white and red sign reading “Send them home” sat on top of a pick-up parked across the street Two middle-aged men flanked the sign and a teen overlooked the crowd. They had received a variety of reactions from passersby, from enthusiasm to getting flipped off, one of the men said.
Overall, the atmosphere of the rally was upbeat, with speakers and performances riling up the crowd. “Sí se puede” (“Yes we can”) they chanted, encouraging people to fight for fair immigration laws and shape America into a country anyone can call home.