Tens of thousands marched across the State of California on May 1, 2014. But it was in San Bernardino that Executive Board representative, Marguerite Johnson, chose to bear prophetic witness, The color of our skins, our citizenship, it doesnt matter, she said. What matters is the red blood that flows through our skin. Upon hearing this, the crowd erupted in exaltation, blowing whistles, and through thunderous applause yelling, Amen! Working alongside the Justice For Immigrants Coalition, (JFIC) ULTCW orchestrated a march from the Carousel Mall, down 2nd Street to ULTCWs San Bernardino office, and up Arrowhead Ave to the County Administration Building. Although under a mile in length, this route took marchers over asphalt in triple-degree temperatures. Yet participants were unwearied because the enthusiasm beaming from their hearts to their faces was reflected by MCs Wendy Duchen, and Fernando Romero from JFIC. Guest speaker, Connie Leyva, President of the California Labor Federation and UFCW Local 1428, illustrated the connection between our fight to end severe economic inequality and the push for establish a pathway to citizenship for 11 million aspiring Americans. Were not going to allow CEOs to keep squeezing everything they can from their workers, so they can continue to make 400 times more than those who work for them, she said. When bosses can no longer use status as a weapon against immigrant workers, we will be in a better position to organize. ULTCW Secretary Treasurer, Kim Evon, underlined the fact that our campaign to bring Dignity to all those who call California; this country home, is unwavering. I dont see Dignity in living under the constant threat of detention or deportation, to and from work, to and from the store, to and from your kids school, she said. Were going to keep fighting until this is done, and not just because it means something to our immigrant members, but because it means something to all of us, as workers, as union members, as Americans, as human beings who stand for Dignity! After chanting, cheering, and waving to acknowledge the cars and trucks honking their horns in support of the messages written on the posters and banners participants proudly held up as they marched, community members from JFIC, la Libreria del Pueblo, the Rapid Response Network, and Anakbayan, joined UFWC and ULTCW members in a circle of solidarity. Holding hands, this choir of voices began singing De Colores, a song often performed by Joan Baez during events convened by Civil Rights Activists a generation ago. After highlighting the beauty found in the vibrant Spring and vivid tones of rainbows, the last verse reminds us that love comes in all colors. All those who sing and listen feel joy, knowing our diversity is proof that we are all worthy of great love. https://flickr/photos/seiu-ultcw/sets/72157644482642285/
Posted on: Sat, 03 May 2014 00:44:17 +0000
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