Hundreds participate in “Free our Future” immigration protest
SAN DIEGO (KUSI) – As of 4:00 PM Monday, the San Diego Police Department has arrested 10 people who were part of the “Free our Future” protests. The charges include trespassing, obstructing officers from doing their job, conspiracy, and commercial burglary.
Hundreds of people are being bussed to San Diego to attend a “Free Our Future” event Monday to protest zero-tolerance immigration policies that have led to family separations and increased prosecutions through Operation Streamline. Rather than find a solution to the immigration problems, many of these protestors wants to abolish I.C.E altogether.
Related: Six Immigration Protests planned in San Diego County
The event begins 9 a.m. at Chicano Park, Logan Avenue and Cesar E. Chavez Parkway. So far, those gathered have come from outside San Diego, including Arizona, Los Angeles, and the East Coast and Midwest.
The protesters marched to the courthouse in downtown around noon. It was reported that another group of protesters were blocking the doors of the Edward J. Schwartz federal building in downtown, which houses local ICE offices.
The demonstration, organized by the social justice advocate Mijente, coincides with the expected San Diego introduction of Operation Streamline, a fast-track prosecution program that moves migrants through the criminal justice system in group hearings. Originally introduced by President George W. Bush in 2005, the program has lately been used only in select Arizona and Texas cities.
Grassroots groups such a Junto Global, Puente and GLAHR are expected to attend Monday’s rally, which will feature colorful floats, public art installations and music.
Representatives from the Women’s March are also expected to participate, along with members of 35 organizations including the Communication Workers of America, Movement for Black Lives, Dream Defenders, Faith Matters Network, Working Families Party and Jewish Voices for Peace, among others.
Related: Thousands protest across county over immigration concerns
