Global action for immigrant rights

Dec. 18 was the Global Day of Action for the Rights of Immigrants and Against Racism. In commemoration of this day, 250 immigrant rights’ activists, including many Occupy Philly participants, joined in a march in Philadelphia to protest unjust immigration policies.

The march was organized by the New Sanctuary Movement of Philadelphia and Occupy Philadelphia. It was modeled on a “posada,” a traditional Mexican festival which re-enacts the Christian account of Mary and Joseph’s travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem and their search for lodging there. A processional through Center City pointed to the closing of doors to immigrants by elected officials and government policies, and the harm done to their families.

The silent march — which was peppered with protest signs — stopped in front of the Federal Building, the National Constitution Center, and the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services building, where speakers denounced the mistreatment of and discrimination against immigrants. Activists ended up at the Arch Street United Methodist Church, where they were welcomed.

Report and photo by Joe Piette