Odlys Compos holds a candle during the vigil.

“ These rallies are to gather the forces of human rights and common decency in this country, to shine a light of truth on the fact that this country’s immigration laws are broken and have been broken for far too long.” -- TOM KOWALL, ACTIVIST

Immigrant nation By Matt Gunn gunnma@mscd.edu   Julio Martinez carries a flag during the candlelight vigil at Sloan’s Lake Monday. The ceremony was held in memory of immigrants who have died trying to cross the American border.

Photo by Emily Varisco • varisco@mscd.edu

   Hundreds of immigrant-rights activists rallied at Sloan’s Lake Park April 10 in a candlelight vigil to honor those who died crossing the United States-Mexico border, and to demand comprehensive reform and fair treatment for all who emigrate.
   The rally was one of many similar gatherings that took place across the nation in protest of H.R. 4437, legislation that if passed, would mandate a 700-mile wall along the Mexican border be constructed and would punish undocumented immigrants as felons.
   Protests began after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the legislation by a 239 to 182 vote Dec. 16, 2005.
   “ These rallies are to gather the forces of human rights and common decency in this country, to shine a light of truth on the fact that this country’s immigration laws are broken and have been broken for far too long,” said Tom Kowall, Quaker activist and member of the No More Deaths Coalition.
   The demonstration began with an hour-long collection of speeches and prayers united by the theme of “Sí, se puede,” or “Yes, we can.” Protesters held handmade signs with the words “No one is illegal.”
   Speakers representing the United States, Mexico, Africa and France all expressed the need for a voice in the effort to affect change on U.S. immigration laws.
   “ We’re not going to stop until we’re heard,” Julieta Quinonez said. A member of the youth organization Jovenes Unidos, Quinonez said he hopes lawmakers listen to the children of immigrants as well.
   “ We’re going to be heard, and they better listen to us,” she said.
   Demonstrators lit candles as the speeches ended at sunset. They marched around the lake to the beat of Aztec drums, carrying hundreds of American flags, along with the banners of Mexico, Cuba and other Latin American nations.
   Volunteers distributed crosses bearing the names of more than 4,000 people who died crossing into the United States.
   “ When we circle this lake with candlelight it’s for everybody, every one of those persons who has passed away in search of the American dream,” said Paul D. Lopez, University of Colorado graduate and political organizer. “There are a lot of people that would die to become an American citizen.”
   The procession lasted for more than one hour, with the glow of candles and chants of activists penetrating the darkness.
   “ I’m emotional about this,” said Mac Tiger-Toll, an English as a Second Language teacher at Montclair Elementary School. “I think this is wonderful, and I saw on television that there had been great turnouts. This is what’s best about our country.”
   “ I try not to get annoyed when I hear people described as criminals who come here to work and earn a living the way all the rest of us do,” he added.