Today’s direct action in Alamance County.

The crowd gathers, 1:30 pm

The event began with short speeches, singing, and chanting. Never Again, a movement led by our Jewish brothers and sisters to fight against racism, and SIEMBRA NC, a Latinx organization working to build power within Latinx communities in our state provided leadership.

We left the property led by a procession of six black coffins representing those who have died in ICE custody. Our intention was to deliver them to at the door of the jail now serving as an immigrant detention center.

The procession begins, led by six black coffins

As soon as we left the property, we were met by police who had blocked the streets surrounding our location.

A show of force by Alamance police, some even in riot gear, blocked the streets in every direction.

The amazing show of force that stopped our procession was very disappointing. It seems that our peaceful action was perceived as a serious threat by someone in the local police department.

Speaking truth to power sometimes requires being willing to face such nonsensical use of force. While I was not able to stay till the end of the March, there were many among us who could and we’re willing to face arrest. As of this writing I have not heard news of how that played out.

Please be in prayer for them and wish us strength and courage as we continue to press for change.