UVA students gather to protest DACA repeal
‘The undocumented community is under attack’
Around 70 people gathered in front of the amphitheater today to stand in solidarity with DREAMers on Grounds and those affected by the DACA repeal.
DREAMers on Grounds put together the rally in order to share stories and encourage members of the University community to contact their local representatives. The organization hopes to "create a more inclusive environment and an overall safe space for undocumented students through education and advocacy."
Paola Sanchez, President of DREAMers on Grounds speaks of the importance of fighting back, "the undocumented community at UVA, in Virginia, and nationwide is under attack. It's really important for UVA students to stand in solidarity because they're peers and friends. It's really important that they show support."
Protesters hold signs that read "white silence is violence"
Sanchez also urges the community to contact their local representatives— "call Tom Garrett and tell him to protect Dreamers. Community members who are privileged enough to be here documented have the power to vote and have the power to call Congressmen and call for a law that protects Dreamers."
Despite the rain, the rally gathered a crowd of chanting people, standing together with Dreamers. "I'm feeling motivated," said Sanchez. "I think we got the word out to allies. We need allies to stand with us and protect us."