Silence is not an option.
When tyranny becomes law, rebellion become duty.
Thomas Jefferson
Many of us feel overwhelmed or at a loss of what to do because what is happening to our neighbors is so scary and seems too big. Fortunately, there are ways we can stand up for each other. Standing up will look different for each of us and we must support each other in whatever it looks like.
Here is state legislation ODIS has taken a position of support on:
THE SAFE COMMUNITIES ACT - We all want our families, children and communities to be safe. We are not safe if parts of our community are afraid to talk with local law enforcement officials about concerns, such as illegal activity in their neighborhood or abuse in their family, because they are afraid of immigration consequences.
THE IMMIGRANT LEGAL DEFENSE ACT - Did you know that immigrants facing deportation proceedings are not guaranteed a court-appointed attorney if they cannon afford one? This Act would create a public private-funded program to provide no-cost immigration legal defense to immigrants who are at imminent risk of deportation, including this in federal detention.
THE DIGNITY NOT DEPORTATIONS ACT - ICE detention is civil, not criminal. People held by ICE are not serving sentences. They are simply being held pending deportation hearings or acts. By limiting detention space available to ICE in Massachusetts state and local facilities, this will limit Massachusetts’ s role in mass deportations.
OTHER WAYS TO STAND UP:
Bathe ODIS, our clients, all of our immigrant neighbors in your prayers.
Put up lawn or windows signs. Look on Etsy or ask a local printer for signs that support immigrants. There are lots of options.
Vote and let candidates know immigration is important
Sign petitions in support of immigration. Here is an example from MIRA Coalition
Speak up in our work places, with friends, with neighbors, and in our families to support our immigrants. This can be very hard. None of us like conflict. The Quakers have a wonderful saying, “The Christ in me greets the Christ in thee” to acknowledge and honor the potential spiritual connection and understanding between people. For honesty and kindness to prevail in our communities, we must model it in our lives and encounters, even when we disagree.
Check out fiftyfifty.one/events or other similar grassroots movements based peaceful protests not violence.They usually list local events happening in our area.
Read and learn more migration and immigrants. Check your local library. They have wonderful resources depending on your interest.
Financially give to groups who are supporting immigrant and refugees
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Meade