Why are people protesting and marching? 

In recent months, anti-immigrant legislation has been debated and passed in Congress including the Sensenbreener Bill (HR 4437) which, among other things, criminalizes public service agencies that provide assistance to undocumented immigrants. Additionally, renegade vigilante groups have taken the law into their own hands and began “hunting” immigrants along the US Mexico border. Immigrants have always played a vital and positive role in this society and these massive demonstrations are carrying that message to the public.

What is an undocumented immigrant?

Undocumented immigrants live, work, and contribute to the US economy without an immigration permit or visa. Representing roughly 11-12 million people, undocumented immigrants have unfairly been characterized as “illegal aliens.” Many of these immigrants are also refugees, and documented immigrants caught in limbo within the US legal system. It is believed that 78% of undocumented are from Latin American countries. 

An economic boycott has been called for May 1, 2006 in support of immigrant rights. What is an economic boycott?

Immigrant communities contribute greatly to the economy. Undocumented immigrants make up 24% of all workers employed in farming jobs, 17% in cleaning, 36% in insulation installation, 29% in roofing and drywall installation, 27% of butchers and other food processing. By boycotting work school, and any type of monetary exchange, immigrants and supporters show their economic power to the elected officials and the public at large. 

Alliance for Immigrant Rights