A vigil organized by Indivisible Route 1 Corridor took place on Saturday in Hyattsville, drawing together immigrant rights advocates, religious leaders, and local community members. The event focused on calling for justice and assistance for families impacted by ICE actions.
The atmosphere was charged with the sounds of car horns along the Route 1 corridor as drivers expressed solidarity during the vigil, which aimed to honor those who have lost their lives during encounters with ICE agents.
Indivisible Route 1 Corridor spearheaded the event, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and support for affected individuals and families.
“Public support is crucial when we hold events like this,” stated Laura Usher, co-leader of Indivisible Route 1 Corridor.
“We are truly thankful for the faith community’s involvement in advocating against the abusive treatment of immigrants.”
Among the attendees was 20-year-old Jenifer Pineda, who held a sign that read, “ICE agents repent, love, and save your souls.” Pineda shared how fear has significantly influenced her experiences and those of other children of immigrants.
“In the past, we had to remain indoors due to COVID, but now we’re frightened to go outside due to the possibility of our parents being taken away,” she explained.
Pineda, who also serves as the president of the youth group at St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, recounted a personal story about her uncle, who was detained last August as he was commuting to work, resulting in her aunt and young cousin having to leave the country.
Long-time activist Karen Murphy, who started protesting with her parents during the Vietnam War, attended the vigil with her children.
“It’s vital to see a larger turnout at events like this,” she urged. “Put down your phones and get involved.” She further remarked,
“This is not acceptable. This is not the America we represent. We must advocate for human rights. Our country is rooted in immigration.”
Maryland Representative Glenn Ivey spoke with WTOP, expressing concerns about ICE agents being assigned tasks for which they are unprepared.
“ICE agents aren’t equipped for the roles they are being assigned by the administration,” he noted.
“Their focus should be on apprehending serious offenders, rather than conducting random patrols and engaging in racial profiling.”
The vigil featured prayers, musical performances by the Rapid Response Choir, and a solemn reading of the names of individuals who died during ICE encounters. Organizers made efforts to gather food donations for Route 1 Mutual Aid, an initiative that assists families who have been affected by ICE detentions.
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