denver and the west
Immigrant-rights groups plan massive rally
By The Denver Post
Article Last Updated: 07/03/2008 02:00:41 AM MDT
A coalition of immigrant-rights advocates plans to hold a massive parade and rally during the Democratic National Convention.
Organizers said they hope the Aug. 26 march — which they have dubbed the "We Are America" march — will draw as many as 50,000 people. Nita Gonzales, the president of Escuela Tlatelolco, said at a news conference Wednesday in front of the state Democratic Party's headquarters that similar announcements took place in Los Angeles and Bakersfield, Calif., by groups that plan to travel to Denver.
"We want humane, comprehensive immigration reform now," Gonzales said.
The groups — including Escuela Tlatelolco, Padres y Jovenes Unidos and NEWSED — hope the march will raise the profile of immigration-reform issues. Among the coalition's goals are the passage of the DREAM act, which would make it easier for states to offer in-state tuition to students who are illegal immigrants; elimination of the wall on the Mexico border; and the cessation of immigration raids such as the one at the Swift meatpacking plant in Greeley in 2006.
The groups invited Barack Obama to march with them.
"This is the moment for him to demonstrate his support," said Leticia Mendoza, a North High School student who spoke at the announcement.
John Ingold, The Denver Post
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