As cars passed beneath the Mirador Overpass on Saturday afternoon, community members lined the bridge holding signs and waving flags, using their visibility to speak out against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and what they see as growing threats to civil rights across the country.
The demonstration, known as the “Bridge Brigade,” drew residents from across Kern County. Some attendees said recent ICE actions, along with reports of unrest and deaths in Minneapolis, motivated them to take part.
ICE agents have been involved in multiple fatal shootings in Minneapolis this month, including one Saturday morning that left Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old man, dead.
Steven Hurd, a Bakersfield resident, said he attended because he is concerned about the direction of the country.
“I fear for United States citizens because I don’t think they realize how serious a point we’re at right now,” Hurd said. “My father and my uncle fought in World War II. They didn’t fight, so a fascist could take over the United States, imprison its citizens, kill them, and lie about it. I’ve never seen anything like this.”
Tom Williams said he attended because of his faith. His sign referenced Matthew 25, a Bible passage about caring for those most in need.
“Jesus asks us to stand up for the poor,” Williams said. “There are many people and groups being mistreated by the current administration.”
Gabriel Benavides, director of communications for the Kern Young Democrats, said the demonstration was personal for him.
“My family comes from an immigrant background,” Benavides said. “I’m here to showcase my ancestry and make sure all voices are heard.”
Benavides said the situation in Minneapolis was “a disgrace.”
“Families are being torn apart, and people are being shot and killed for speaking out,” Benavides said. “I think it’s disgusting for a country that claims to stand for its values and represent its people.”
Audrey Chavez, a Kern County resident and constituent of the 22nd Congressional District who helped organize the event, said the Bridge Brigade was meant to be a visual show of solidarity with communities across the country.
“We’re reminding people about constitutional rights and due process,” Chavez said. “Those who were killed were denied that. We are not a nation that should behave this way.”
