Metro Detroit Immigrants to Rally in D.C. Today
June 19, 2007

By Niraj Warikoo
Free Press Staff Writer

About 100 immigrants from metro Detroit are on their way to Washington, D.C., to join others in a national rally today on Capitol Hill to push for immigration reform.

Two buses filled with Latino immigrants and advocates left Holy Redeemer Catholic Church in southwest Detroit on Monday night. The trip was organized by the Detroit-based coalition group, Metropolitan Organizing Strategy Enabling Strength (MOSES).

"We're going to represent the families so there are no more deportations," said Anna Robles of Detroit, who was traveling with her two sons. "There should be immigration reform."

Parishioners at Holy Redeemer donated about $900 for the trip, said Pastor Don Hanchon.

Before boarding the bus, the group was led in prayer by Hanchon. They then said, "Si, se puede," or "Yes, we can."

The rally comes as Congress debates a proposal that would provide a path to legalization of millions of illegal immigrants, up to 150,000 of which live in Michigan. In recent months, some have been concerned about deportations that have broken up families, but federal authorities have said they are enforcing the law.

The group will meet up with other immigrants from across the country for a prayer service followed by rallies in front of the White House, House, and Senate buildings.

Hanchon said he hopes there is immigration reform that "builds on the strength of families."

Contact NIRAJ WARIKOO at nwarikoo@freepress.com.