Immigration reform supporters gather at Texas rallies

Carolyn Hileman - The Voice* | May 2, 2008

By ANABELLE GARAY Associated Press Writer
© 2008 The Associated Press

DALLAS — Hundreds of people marched and chanted throughout Texas on Thursday as part of a series of rallies calling for laws that would give millions of undocumented immigrants a chance at legalization.

Protests in Austin and Houston had a turnout of some 400 each while Dallas had less than 100 participants. The events, meant to coincide with international workers day, were much quieter than previous marches that drew crowds in the thousands and a handful of counter-protesters.

Nancy Rios, a University of Texas graduate student whose parents immigrated from Mexico, said she believes political attacks on immigrants as well as stepped-up enforcement and raids on undocumented workers in recent months kept crowds to a minimum.

“I support immigrants and workers and all who are in this country searching for a better life and providing them with dignity and respect instead of dehumanizing and scapegoating them,” Rios said.

She was among about 400 people who rallied at the steps of the state Capitol before a march through downtown Austin. Dozens waved American and Mexican flags while others held up red, white and blue signs that read “Citizenship Yes! Deportation No!”

The rally included speeches and music and a short play that depicted immigrants trying to cross the Rio Grande when they are arrested and deported back to Mexico. The march was to pass by Republican Gov. Rick Perry’s mansion — he’s not living there while it is being renovated — and the Travis County Jail on the way to Austin City Hall.