Once again, the Comité Latino of the Coachella Valley came out fighting for immigration reform. Activists from the Comité and Occupy Coachella Valley started getting ready at 3:00 a.m. to go to Hollywood to demand an immigration reform that reflects dignity and respect for immigrants. The Comité made it’s presence felt in the center of Hollywood by singing, jumping, chanting and marching so that Congress will remember that, “Whether you say no, or whether you say yes, we will keep coming back.” Because of their strong desire to send a message to Congress, neither the heat, nor the length of the march tired out the Comité or other Coachella Valley residents that went with them. “Congress, it’s past time that you treat us with respect and dignity.” Generous donations by local businesses, organizations, and individuals, made their trip possible. The Comité has shown that we can win respect and dignity!
The “National Day for Dignity and Respect March” in October was only one part of the Comité’s recent activities. In the weeks preceding the October 5 March, the Comité organized a forum to analyze the negative effect of the cooperation between the Sheriff’s department and the border patrol. The Comité also participated in a mass organized by the Diocese of San Bernardino dedicated to immigration reform. And in the Catholic Church in Coachella, CA., they celebrated a mass for the Pilgrim Virgin’s visit to the parish in remembrance that we are all immigrants.
Self-criticism is necessary now as never before. While the organizers of the “National Day for Dignity and Respect,” expected people to come from hundreds of miles around like they did in 2006, it did not happen. One of the reasons for the poor turnout was that the nationally known organizations were busy lobbying the politicians, and they did not organize the people. At this time the pro-immigrant movement is divided. There are those who want publicity and to stay in the picture. Some support the immigration reform of the Senate, and others don’t. There is no clear path.
But there is a light at the end of the tunnel. We remember that in 2006, the people organized themselves, paralyzed the country, and took over the streets to demand dignity and respect. We should not forget that the power to bring about true social change lies with the people.
