PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — As part of a coordinated nationwide protest, “a silent sea of candles” lit up cities across the US, including Portland, Friday night.
The Lights for Liberty event took place outside of the ICE Detention Center on SW Macadam “to protest the inhumane conditions faced by refugees,” a press release stated.
Hundreds of people gathered and speakers recounted their personal experiences. Many called for the closure of facilities where children are detained. Later, the group held a candlelight vigil and walked around the ICE facility.
Organizers said they hope to abolish ICE, end ICE contracts in Oregon and immediately return children and youth to their family or relatives.
Locally, this is being put together by Buddhist Peace Fellowship, Portland; Milenio.org Grassroots Movement; Direct Action Alliance; Extinction Rebellion Portland – XR PDX; Portland Jobs with Justice; Congregation Shir Tikvah; National Organization for Women – Oregon Chapter; Migrante Portland; Bronze Shoes Installation Project and PDX Sanctuary Coalition.
Other similar events were planned at the same time Friday night, including one that started at Terry Schrunk Plaza. A crowd gathered and planned to walk to the Hawthorne Bridge.
President Trump has ordered ICE to deport undocumented immigrants in 9 cities across the US beginning Sunday.
