The Schuylkill County Democratic Committee (SCDC) is set to hold a “No Kings” rally alongside a candlelight vigil on January 20, 2024, in Pottsville, Pennsylvania. This event aims to protest against the actions of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and will take place at Garfield Square on West Market Street from 4 to 5 p.m.. Recent ICE operations have drawn significant attention both locally and nationally, prompting the SCDC to organize this gathering.
Chairman of the SCDC, Todd Zimmerman, emphasized that this rally is part of a broader, nationwide movement against the policies of the Trump Administration. While previous rallies have focused on various aspects of immigration policy, this event will uniquely culminate in a candlelight vigil from 5 to 5:30 p.m.. The vigil will honor victims of ICE raids and bring attention to the agency’s operations not just in Schuylkill County, but across the United States.
During the event, Zimmerman intends to address the tragic death of Renee Good, a 37-year-old woman who was shot and killed by an ICE officer in Minneapolis. This incident has sparked widespread protests and discussions about the conduct of ICE. Zimmerman noted that the vigil will not only highlight the events in Minnesota but also honor local individuals who have faced detainment, including Ruben Rojas-Vargas and Saydullo Akbarov. Rojas-Vargas, a Pottsville resident, was detained in May after residing in the U.S. for 16 years, while Akbarov was detained in Philadelphia just last month.
The SCDC advocates for a balanced approach to immigration, supporting strong borders and legal immigration processes. Zimmerman stated, “We all agree that deportations are necessary when a person is here illegally or is a convicted criminal.” However, he expressed concerns about the lack of due process in some ICE operations, particularly regarding racial profiling and the targeting of individuals in workplaces and educational institutions.
Attendees are encouraged to bring candles or flashlights to the vigil, which aims to create a somber yet powerful atmosphere for reflection. Previous “No Kings” rallies in the area have seen counter-protesters, raising concerns about safety during the upcoming event. Zimmerman acknowledged these concerns, affirming the importance of standing up for democratic values despite potential risks.
The SCDC hopes that this rally and vigil will stimulate discussions about immigration policy and inspire a bipartisan approach similar to legislation crafted during the Biden administration. As the event approaches, community members are urged to engage in meaningful dialogue surrounding the implications of ICE actions within their communities.
