Protest Planned!

Dear Friends and Supporters,

For those of you who do not already know, the City Council in Danbury is meeting this week to discuss whether or not to adopt the segment of the Nationalization and Immigration law called the 287g ACCESS program. If accepted, this program would deputize local police to carry out Federal Immigration duties, including arrests, and raids which would then be carried out into deportations. Immigrants rights supporters in Danbury strenuously oppose this act being implemented, as it would easily create a witchhunt climate here in Danbury which would force the Immigrant Community even further into the shadows, and continue the assault upon Workers, and upon Families of mixed and varied immigration status.

A protest is planned for 10/2 in front of City hall on Deer Hill Avenue in Danbury, at 7:00pm. However, we have reason to be concerned that a recently enacted parade ordinance might interfere with our plan to protest that evening. An ordinance was passed in July that restricts any public gathering to 25 people or less, unless a permit is obtained. While our gathering is intended to be much larger than 25 people, it is a freedom of speech event. That being the case, many of the requirements for the permit do not apply to us (such as liability insurance, a filing fee, etc). However, we can still be denied based on the time constraints we were working under. A Stop the Raids member did apply for a permit on Friday early afternoon, and was told she would receive an answer on Monday. We are currently awaiting that response. If we are denied, and choose to then go foward as planned, we will seek legal council about getting an emergency injunction, and obtain legal observers, however, we could still be subject to fines up to $100.00's, as individuals. And that also means, that certain segments of our community who chose to join us in protest, would be especially at risk. So it is very necessary that you keep an eye on your email, to check for any alerts, or to contact either myself (203)512-3452 or by email bruxagatinha203@yahoo.com, or Jason McGahan (860) 538-3920 or by email at jason.mcgahan@trincoll.edu before heading out to the Protest. We are waiting for final word from the permits office, and may seek emergency legal action if we are barred from protesting.

Again, supporters of Immigrants Rights must have a strong presence that evening. IF YOU SUPPORT IMMIGRANTS RIGHTS, THIS IS AN ACTION YOU CANNOT MISS! The effects of this policy in Danbury, would have long reaching effects on immigrant communities, and the towns in which they live. If you are a Danbury Resident, please consider attending the Council Meeting IN Council Chambers to speak your mind on this issue. If you are from a surrounding town, you may also sit in on the meeting, however, only Danbury residents and tax payers are allowed to speak. Any support in the audience, though, for those who will be supporting the Cause of Immigrants on the inside of Council Chambers will be greatly appreciated, and encouraged.

Sincerely,
Jean C. Hislop
Stop the Raids, Danbury