National Grassroots and Religious Leaders Gather in DC to “Cleanse” ICE and Celebrate a New Day in America, A New Hope for Immigration Reform
WHAT: Ceremonial cleansing of ICE Headquarters and community forum on immigration
WHEN: Wednesday, January 21, 2009
11 a.m. – Gathering at Banneker Park
Procession to ICE Headquarters
1:30 p.m. – Community forum at Westminster Presbyterian Church
WHERE: Benjamin Banneker Park, 10th & G Sts. SW, Washington, DC.
ICE Headquarters, 500 12th St. SW
Community forum at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 400 I St. SW
WHO: Fair Immigration Reform Movement (FIRM) and National Capital Immigrant Coalition (NCIC)
WHY: On January 21st, faith leaders and the grassroots community will gather at Banneker Park for a procession to the offices of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for a ceremony to cleanse ICE of 8 years of repressive policies. On the first day of the new administration, we will also celebrate a new day for America, and a new hope for just and humane immigration reform and worker justice.
The event at ICE will include traditional cleansing and remembrance ceremonies based on African and Native American traditions, as well as interfaith passages recalling suffering, struggle and hope. Aspects of the ceremony will make reference to the Old Testament story of the destruction of Jericho. More than 200 faith leaders are expected to participate, surrounded by many hundred more immigrants and allies.
The action at ICE will be followed by a community forum at Westminster Presbyterian Church, where community members and grassroots leaders from immigrant rights organizations will share experiences and talk about building a movement that can win the change we need. . .