In response to the 45,000 people being detained by United States Immigration Officials, the Arizona-based human rights group Puenteaz has organized a hunger strike led by family members and friends of those in detention.
The hunger strike started on February 17th, and will continue until March 3rd.
In Phoenix Arizona, protesters are camped out in front of the ICE office there. Solidarity actions are happening nationally as well, with 32 protesters being arrested as part of a non-violent civil disobedience action in front of the White House in Washington DC, to mark the first day of the hunger strike.
This peaceful protest has already drawn the ire of intolerant community members. A frozen burrito with the message, “learn english wetback go back to mexico” scrawled on it in sharpie marker was thrown into the camp by an anonymous passerby on day two of the hunger strike.
Among the hunger strikers is Anesima Lopez, a mother who has done everything within her legal power to get her son Elder Lopez out of detention.
According to Puenteaz, Elder Lopez has remained in detention for the past two years, and has been fighting his deportation so that he can stay in the US with his mother and children. This month, Elder was given a deportation sentance to Guatemala. According to Peunteaz, if deported, it is likely that Elder will be killed while in Guatemala.
On the first day of the hunger strike, Anselma stood outside of the ICE facility in Phoenix where her son Elder is being held, and gave the following announcement commencing the hunger strike:
”I am ready to do this hunger you. It’s a big sacrifice that I’m going to do, but I want you to be reunited with your kids and family because we miss you a lot and we need you. It’s already been three Christmases, three birthdays for each of your kids that you’ve missed. We’re going to be in contact always, you there and me here, God willing.
For up to date information about the hunger strikers at the ICE facility in Phoenix, go to Puenteaz.org or follow their feed on facebook.
If you would like to support the hunger strikers, they are in need of supplies. To donate your support, go to their website, http://www.puenteaz.org