OK lawmakers, ACLU host rally to educate the community on immigrant rights
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Saturday, state lawmakers, community leaders and the American Civil Liberties Union of Oklahoma held a rally to educate the community on immigrant rights.
More than a week into President Donald Trump's second term, his administration has cracked down on immigration policies.
Oklahoma lawmakers say there have been no ice raids in the metro and want to stop the spread of misinformation.
House Representative Arturo Alonso-Sandoval said "It's important for us to really, like, you know, equip ourselves with facts and we will be in on credible data and credible evidence before maybe sharing a post."
Rep. Alonso-Sandoval said they want to make sure people know that they have rights, in the midst of increased border patrols and new policies.
In the event there is an interaction with ICE (Immigration Enforcement Customs), "They have the right to remain silent, the right to answer questions only with the attorney, with their attorney present, as well as making sure that that ICE agents would have a warrant signed by a judge," said Rep Alonso-Sandoval.
Cindy Nguyen, Policy Director for ACLU said it's important members of the community are well prepared at schools, businesses and beyond, in the event something occurs.
Oklahoma City activists also attended to show support for the immigrant community.
Kermani Martinez is a retired U.S. Air Force Veteran. She said, not only was it important to her to fight for the country, but it's also important to her to fight for freedom.
"We here in Oklahoma need to come together as a community. And it's really important for the Latin American community to know that we support you," said Martinez.
Last week, a letter was sent from the U.S. Department of Justice, taking another look at an immigration law that was signed by Governor Kevin Stitt in April.
It was stopped by a federal judge before it was to be enforced. The law would've enabled Oklahoma law enforcement to arrest people based on immigration status.
News 4 is still waiting to hear if the justice department will drop it's lawsuit concerning Oklahoma's immigration law. However, it's also facing a second lawsuit from the ACLU.