RIO GRANDE — “ICE and the Border Patrol are just tools of violence, criminalizing people simply for existing,” Sandy Bove’ said Feb. 6 following a rally to support immigrant rights the previous day. “We believe in collective liberation, that none are free until all are free and we will continue to organize.”
Community members, advocates and allies gathered Feb. 5 at the intersection of Routes 9 and 47 in Middle Township to show solidarity with immigrants and demand protections for all.
Cape May County Indivisible held “We Stand with Immigrants” aimed at bringing awareness to human rights and called for an end to the raids, deportations and other “racist and violent policies of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and the Trump administration.”
President Donald Trump signed multiple executive orders Jan. 20, shortly after being sworn in for his second term, targeting immigration. He ordered the military to the border, prohibited migrants from making advance appointments with border officials, suspended parole programs and forced migrants to wait in Mexico while their asylum cases are heard, according to national news outlets.
Border Patrol agents were ordered to deport those who illegally cross the border immediately and conduct “expedited removals” for people found throughout the United States. Deportation flights began Jan. 23 for the more than 6,000 detainees in January alone.
Protest rallies have begun to pop up around the country. In Rio Grande, ralliers waved signs, chanted “No human being is illegal” and committed to acting beyond the event.
Cape May County Indivisible is a local grassroots group that fights for social, racial, reproductive, economic and environmental justice. It formed after Trump’s first election in 2016.
“These are our neighbors, friends and family members. We feel strongly about protecting and keeping each other safe, and real safety comes from a strong community based on mutual aid and prosperity,” Bove’ said.
According to the group, there were between 40 and 50 people when the rally was the busiest, but because of the weather many people came and went throughout the event.
“I think it’s a good start. It was a powerful gathering of people who showed up with love and courage and solidarity,” Bove’ said, noting there also was a public commitment to keep organizing and protecting each other. “We urge everyone who showed up to stay involved, not just for a rally but every day as well.”
She said they gathered to “take a stand for immigrant rights, because we refuse to stay silent while our immigrant neighbors are facing harassment, detention and deportation.”
Born and raised in Cape May County, Bove’ is a tattoo artist at Peregrine Moon in West Cape May and a board member of Equality Cape May. She said the shop, run by all women, is “a safe and inclusive place and a hub of activism.”
Those interested in learning more can apply to join the private Facebook group Cape May County Indivisible, which has more than 1,600 members, or email cmcindivisible@gmail.com.
Monthly meetings have been held at the Inn of Cape May, where the next one is scheduled for Feb. 28, but going forward will be held at West Cape May Borough Hall.
– By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff
