Approximately 400 individuals gathered in Hickory, North Carolina, on Saturday to protest the presence of Department of Homeland Security agents in the area. The demonstration, which took place along U.S. Highway 70, was organized to express solidarity with immigrants and voice opposition to recent immigration enforcement actions.
The protesters formed a line stretching from a Murphy gas station near the intersection of U.S. Highway 70 and U.S. Highway 321 to a Walmart Neighborhood Market. Holding signs that communicated messages of support for immigrants and criticism of the Trump administration’s immigration policies, the diverse group aimed to raise awareness about the impact of federal immigration enforcement on local communities.
Community leaders emphasized the significance of the gathering. The leader of Centro Latino remarked that the Catawba County community had come together, stating, “We feel the love.” This sentiment echoed throughout the crowd, illustrating a collective commitment to advocating for immigrant rights.
Local law enforcement had previously informed the public that immigration agents were scheduled to operate in Catawba County during the week of the protest. This announcement heightened concerns among residents about the potential for increased immigration enforcement in their neighborhoods. As a result, many community members felt compelled to take action and demonstrate their support for those affected by these policies.
In addition to the protest, there has been a noticeable increase in school absences in the nearby Catawba, Burke, and Iredell counties, attributed to anxiety surrounding the immigration operations. The local community is grappling with the implications of federal actions, which have sparked fears about the safety and well-being of immigrant families.
As the protest concluded, participants expressed a sense of empowerment and unity. The event highlighted the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy in the United States, particularly in areas like Hickory, where diverse populations coexist.
This rally underscores a broader movement within the country advocating for more humane immigration policies. As federal agents prepare for what has been dubbed a “Swamp Sweep” immigration crackdown, community members in Hickory are determined to make their voices heard in support of their immigrant neighbors.
