Protests spread across the state as people rally against Border Patrol agents’ presence in Charlotte.
On Sunday, hundreds of people gathered in Moore Square and marched throughout the streets of downtown Raleigh for an “ICE OUT” demonstration.
Demonstrators really directed their messages toward Charlotte, where that border patrol operation is underway, and also called for the end of Trump’s Immigration crackdown and any operations in North Carolina.
Federal officials have said these operations are about making sure Americans feel safe; however, demonstrators say these operations are sparking fear.
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein said in a post on Facebook Sunday said public safety is the top priority and commended local law enforcement for working to keep communities safe.
In his statement, he also commended Customs and Border Patrol agents for arresting what he described as “violent criminals,” but said the “actions of too many federal agents are doing the exact opposite in Charlotte.”
“This is not making us safer,” Stein said. “It is stoking fear and dividing our community.”
People on Sunday were seen carrying signs that read “kindness toward immigrants” and “no border control in North Carolina.” Some were immigrants themselves and said protests like this carry extra meaning for them.
“I fear for my family, my friends, my neighbors,” said Maria Bautista, a protester from Sunday’s demonstrations. “I feel we’re doing good to come out here and protest for them so we can all come together as a community.”