For many Kern County residents, these past few days have been stricken with fear as ICE/CBD held raids across the County these last three days in order to target undocumented residents, resulting in the organization of the “All Humans Are Legal” solidarity protest.
“¡Sí Se Puede!” exclaimed hundreds of Kern County residents, supporters, community organizers, parents, and children who gathered in unity on Jan. 10 at Ming Ave.
Their goal was to hold a peaceful protest centered on “love, peace, and harmony,” with the message that “we are not going away,” said Cindy Valverde, a member of the Bakersfield Aids Project and Mujeres de Luz, as she helped kick off the event.
The protest kicked off with chants and as participants made their way across the street onto the 99 overpass bridge– showcasing the United Farm Workers Foundation (UFW) banner and poster.
“I am part of a mixed family. I’m a first-generation immigrant, my parents are farmworkers. They came to this country.,” said Sandra, a community member. “I saw them fight for their rights to just be here…my grandpa fought, my parents fought, and now I am fighting.”
Sandra shared how there was some hesitation to show up due to the recent activity of ICE and CBP, which started taking place on Monday. Despite the fear that has manifested across town she was happy to see the solidarity that this event brought forth.
Many other individuals who attended had similar testimonies, further highlighting the effects that ICE raids can have on individuals, families, and the overall community.
“I think that it’s a very difficult time for our undocumented folks just because they’re trying to rip families apart…These are the people who are taking the jobs that no one else wants, they are working minimum wage jobs in harsh conditions and it’s unfortunate that my dad…puts in the work to bring food on the table for the families here in the central valley and he and alongside other undocumented people are being treated like second class citizens,” said Ignacio Castillo who showed up to represent his father and everyone else who can’t.
The UFW and other members of the Rapid Response Network created this event as they believed that it would bring the community together in solidarity.
Ambar Tovar, immigration attorney and immigration and legal services director for the UFW shared how this wasn’t just an event to show the immigrant and farmworking community that they have support, but to send a message to local law enforcement that this community is not alone and the actions that took place will not be tolerated.
The solidarity was evident not only from the people on the street but also from those in their cars. Many members of the community honked their horns, waved Mexican flags, or played Mexican music in support.
Additionally, the City of Arvin has expressed their commitment to connecting its community with resources during the Border Patrol activities.
The City of Arvin announced today that they are not involved in or condoning the Border Patrol operations.
Arvin Mayor Olivia Calderon stated, “I understand that many of our neighbors are feeling vulnerable right now, and it is crucial that we respond to this moment with empathy and solidarity. Our compassion for each other will carry us through in times of uncertainty. It’s important to be clear and calm during times like these, and I want to reassure everyone that your safety and well-being are my top priority. Everyone in our City has protections under the Constitution regardless of immigration status. We encourage anyone who is impacted by these enforcement actions to seek support, whether that be through legal assistance, community resources, or simply by reaching out to neighbors and family for strength, Our City is committed to working closely with local organizations that provide support to our community, ensuring they have access to the resources they need in this difficult time.”
Arvin officials are encouraging residents to participate in “Know Your Rights” presentations, workshops, and trainings that are currently being conducted throughout Kern County and revealed that these opportunities will be coming to the City of Arvin soon.
“Arvin is a loving community, and the City cares about our residents. I encourage all residents to learn about knowing their rights,” commented Arvin City Manager Jeff Jones.
