NEW YORK (PIX11) – Faith leaders across New York gathered outside an ICE facility at Federal Plaza in Manhattan, calling for dignity and protection for immigrant communities.
Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent, the 40-day season of repentance and reflection. Dozens gathered outside the ICE facility at Federal Plaza in Lower Manhattan, where many immigrants have been detained.
“We are standing up for dignity on this day, Ash Wednesday day to reclaim our humanity and show what we believe together.” Says Matthew Hyde, Episcopal Bishop of New York, “and it’s absolutely time to turn back and repent from the chaos and cruelties in our neighborhoods and turn back towards hope.”
Protesters circled the federal building in prayer, calling it a meaningful way to begin the Lenten journey.
Between prayers and chants, demonstrators carried signs denouncing ICE enforcement operations. Some say they believe the agency’s actions are harming communities.
“We want to get rid of ICE,” says Chris Smith, who was in attendance. “ICE has not been good for our country, what they are doing to our communities.”
Organizers say the gathering was about living out their faith publicly, especially during Lent.
“Jesus, for those of us that are Christian, was somebody who stood up for migrants,” says Sharon Hirbar from The Kairos Center for Religious Rights and Social Justice. “ Folks are here living out their faith on the street and reminding us, especially during this time when our communities are terrorized, that we have to stand up and speak out.”
Organizers say they plan to continue holding conversations and gatherings throughout Lent focused on what they describe as reclaiming humanity and protecting one another.
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