A rally and candlelight vigil organized by the Schuylkill County Democratic Committee (SCDC) is set to take place in Pottsville on January 20, 2024. The event, part of the nationwide “No Kings” movement, aims to protest the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in light of recent events that have drawn significant national attention. The gathering will occur at Garfield Square on West Market Street from 16:00 to 17:00, followed by the vigil from 17:00 to 17:30.
Todd Zimmerman, Chairman of the SCDC, emphasized that this event is distinct from previous rallies, as it will not only protest ICE operations but also honor victims of recent raids. This announcement follows the tragic shooting of Renee Good, a 37-year-old woman killed by an ICE officer in Minneapolis, which has sparked protests across the country. Zimmerman stated that the vigil will address the events in Minnesota while also recognizing local individuals affected by ICE actions.
Among those highlighted will be Ruben Rojas-Vargas, a Pottsville resident who has lived in the United States for 16 years and was detained in May, and Saydullo Akbarov from Schuylkill Haven, who was detained during a visit to Philadelphia last month. Both men were taken to the Moshannon Valley ICE Processing Center.
Zimmerman clarified that the SCDC does not oppose ICE entirely, acknowledging that deportations are necessary for individuals who are in the country illegally or who have been convicted of crimes. “We all agree on that,” he remarked. The committee, however, advocates for due process and denounces practices such as racial profiling and the targeting of individuals in workplaces and educational settings.
“We are for a strong border and legal immigration,” Zimmerman continued, expressing hope that Congress will draft a bipartisan immigration bill similar to one proposed during the Biden administration. The SCDC believes that reforms are necessary to address concerns about fairness and justice in immigration enforcement.
Attendees are encouraged to bring candles or flashlights to the vigil, as the event aims to create a solemn atmosphere to honor the affected individuals. Given the contentious nature of these issues, conversations surrounding safety are ongoing, particularly as counter-protesters have attended previous No Kings rallies in the region.
“I am concerned,” Zimmerman admitted, “but we have to stand up for democracy.” This rally and vigil represents a critical moment for the community to voice its stance on immigration enforcement and advocate for a more just system.
