Today, President's Day, faith leaders in Arvin and across the Central Valley will gather in response to recent federal policies and rhetoric including reports of increased ICE raids across the state and country.
Leaders believe these policies pose a clear threat to immigrant, Muslim and other targeted communities in the county they represent.
Clergy, congregations and community partners are taking steps to defend all those in need of protection and to stand against raids, Executive Orders and any other actions intended both to strike fear and create division in our communities.
In Arvin, speakers will specifically call on the local Arvin City Council to move forward with a city ordinance to make the city a sanctuary city. After the 400-person "Day Without An Immigrant" march in Arvin on February 16, leaders believe the community has made it clear that the ordinance is something wanted, and needed, for Arvin families.
The rally will take place on Monday, February 20, 2017, in front of Arvin City Hall. It will begin at 4 p.m.