A prayer vigil in support of immigrants gathered this afternoon in Perry Square, organized by the Benedictine Sisters of Erie. The group met in downtown Erie, standing in solidarity with immigrant families in the community and across the nation.
Once a month, the Benedictine Sisters host a public vigil in the square, offering prayers and songs focused on hope and peace. Their goal is to bring attention to the ongoing humanitarian challenges facing immigrants.
Despite the cold weather, dozens of people attended, showing support for immigrants and refugees living both in the region and throughout the country. Organizers say the message is simple: immigrant families are not alone.
Jacqueline, one of the participants, said, “We’ve got neighbors and friends who are new to this country, and whether or not it touches us directly, we know there are people from other countries who are just the backbone of our society.”
The Sisters say their faith calls them to welcome and advocate for people who feel vulnerable.
The vigil comes as debate continues over Erie County’s contract allowing ICE detainees to be held at the county prison. Supporters of the contract say it provides detainees with earlier access to legal assistance, while critics argue it effectively turns the jail into a civil detention center.
Alexandria Iwanenko, an immigration attorney, shared her perspective on the ongoing discussion. “We are dealing with human lives here, and I think that’s a pretty impossible decision to make, yet we have to make one,” she said. “That’s why the county is asking for comments, and people are speaking out on both sides to make sure all of the views are presented, all of the facts are presented.”
The Erie County Council is scheduled to hold a final vote on the matter on February 26 at its next meeting.