Approximately 400 people participated a march for immigrant rights organized by The Michigan Organizing Project today in downtown Grand Rapids. The nearly two-mile march route cut straight through downtown, closing off Division Avenue, the major north-south thoroughfare in Grand Rapids.
Marchers demanded equal treatment for immigrants--pointing out that the rights granted to people in the United States must apply to everyone if they are to have any value. Speakers at a post-march rally called for the passage of the DREAM Act, a piece of federal legislation that would give undocumented high school students the opportunity to become citizens and pursue a college education. Among the speakers was Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell who gave a passionate speech declaring that "we are all immigrants" and giving his support for equal rights for all people.
Early reports from the corporate media are predictably bad, with WZZM 13 reporting that "dozens" participated in the march and avoiding any specifics as to why people were in the streets.
Media Mouse Coverage:
