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Immigrants across Michigan demand 'dignity, respect and permanent protection'

Movimiento Cosecha banner in Grand Rapids
Movimiento Cosecha banner in Detroit
Posted at 4:08 PM, Jan 16, 2021
and last updated 2021-01-16 16:08:42-05

MICHIGAN — Undocumented immigrants are making their voices heard ahead of President-elect Joe Biden’s inauguration on Wednesday.

Leaders of Movimiento Cosecha (“Harvest Movement”) reportedly installed banners in cities across Michigan, including Grand Rapids, Muskegon and Holland, that bear messages such as “Dignity, respect, and permanent protection for 11 million.”

Fox 17 caught up with Gema Lowe, a community activist who reiterated the importance of the work that immigrants around the country do.

"So what we're saying is that we need permanent protection for all immigrants. TPS, DACA, essential workers, farm workers, construction workers, because we're here doing the work and it benefitting the United State and it's benefitting all of us."

A spokesperson for Movimiento Cosecha says the immigrant community has suffered hatred and scorn under the Trump administration, stating that changes in administration will not necessarily solve everything.

They are sending the following message to the incoming Biden administration:

“We are fighting for the permanent protection of ALL 11 million undocumented immigrants,” says Movimiento Cosecha. “I am tired and sick of the fact that this country doesn't value me and respect me; I will continue to fight. The immigrant community is awakening.”

The movement says undocumented immigrants demand permanent legalization and respect for all immigrants in the U.S., including those living in detention centers and families that have been torn apart as a result of deportation.

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