Immigrants Fight for Their Rights
By Alex Villarreal

You might call it the modern day fight for civil rights. On Monday, 3,000 people congregated in Siler City, joining millions of others across the nation who rallied to support immigrants’ rights. One immigrant family allowed us to share their story.

Jose (a pseudonym to conceal his identity) is an immigrant from Guatemala. Jose came with his family to the United States in 1994. He currently works in a factory.

Despite the difficult work, Jose is content to be in this country and refuses to give up hope about his future here.

"We've already started,” says Jose. “We will not leave. If they remove us, we will return."

Jose, his family and others like them joined forces in Siler City to take part in the National Day of Action for Immigrant Justice, which merged with the 20th Annual Pilgrimage for Justice and Peace.

The march, which was sponsored by the Hispanic Liaison in Siler City, finished with a rally in front of City Hall.

Ilana Dubester, executive director of the Hispanic Liaison, says everyone banded together because current treatment of immigrants is unacceptable.

"We will not take this anymore,” Dubester says. “It’s time for comprehensive immigration reform that really addresses the needs of our community and of all the American people."

Delfa, Jose's sister-in-law, says she wants people to realize most immigrants are simply hard workers with an American dream.

“We came with hopes of working and with hopes of triumphing in this country,” Delpha says. “Not all of us are just a burden for the government of this country."

Whatever the outcome, Jose and his family vow to keep fighting.

"No matter what the proposals are, we're always going to be here,” Jose says. “If they benefit us, we won't do anything. If they don't benefit us, it is clear that we will let our voices be heard...and everyone united, I know we will be victorious."