Today, our community coalesced around Peter as he went into an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) check-in at Federal Plaza for the first time after he was given a pardon by the Governor of New York. Despite his clemency, the very real threat of detention during this check-in loomed.
Outside, a crowd of over 60 people rallied in support of Peter. We were joined by his family, members the New Sanctuary Coalition, allies and activists from all reaches of the city, and faith leaders, including The Rev. Dr. Tony Lin (Yale Divinity School), Pastor Juan Carlos Ruiz (Good Shepherd Bay Ridge, South Brooklyn Sanctuary ), and State Senator Jessica Ramos.
We started a Jericho Walk silent march around the building, which was cut short when Peter emerged from his check-in. We were relieved that he was not taken, but the elation was tempered with the stunning revelation that he would have another check-in on April 6.
We celebrate that Peter remains free to be with his family, and we remain committed to supporting him, as well as all of our community members facing the racist, immoral, and fatally depraved system of detention and deportation.
Photo by Alvin Seenauth
Photo by Alvin Seenauth
Do you like this post?