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MEMPHIS, TN — Demonstrators gathered in downtown Memphis on Saturday to protest the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in the city. The rally, organized by local activist groups, aimed to raise awareness about the impact of ICE operations on immigrant communities.
Waving signs that read “ICE Out of Memphis” and “No Human is Illegal,” protesters marched through the streets, chanting slogans calling for the abolition of ICE and better protections for undocumented individuals. The demonstration was largely peaceful, with participants expressing solidarity with families affected by deportations.
Speakers at the event highlighted personal stories of individuals who have faced separation due to immigration enforcement. “We are here to stand up for our neighbors, our friends, and our families who live in fear of being torn apart by ICE,” said Maria Gonzalez, one of the rally organizers. “We demand an end to these raids and the criminalization of immigrants.”
The protest follows increased scrutiny of ICE’s practices in Memphis, where local activists claim that the agency’s visibility has led to heightened fear within the immigrant community. “It’s important that we make our voices heard,” said local resident Javier Ramirez. “ICE doesn’t belong here, and we won’t stop until they are gone.”
As demonstrators marched, the event was recorded and livestreamed, allowing supporters unable to attend to participate virtually. The sense of unity among the crowd underscored a growing movement against harsh immigration policies in the South.
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