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Tuesday, May 01, 2007

Snapshot of New York City's immigration rally

The scene at Union Square so far...

Some ralliers are scattered throughout Union Square, holding signs that say "equal rights for all workers" and "stop raids and deportations." A larger crowd is expected later this afternoon, though organizers expect a smaller turnout than last year.

Aaron Paez, a plumber from Mexico, said he's frustrated only three of his five colleagues took the day off to show up for today's rally. He said they're missing out on the opportunity to make a difference. Paez, 28, has been living illegally in the United States for 10 years and seeks legalization.

Meanwhile, there are several folks who have been selling flags throughout the park -- American, Mexican and various Central American countries -- $3 for the small ones; $10 for the larger ones.

-- By Ines Ferre, CNN en Espanol Correspondent

Posted By CNN: 1:38 PM ET
6 Comments

Why is it that this man breaks the law because he's trying to make ends meet and he expects sympathy, but if I cheat on my taxes or kite checks to pay the mortgage on my overpriced 3br home in Washington D.C., I still go to jail? 99% of U.S. Citizens welcome immigrants. What we worry about are the ones who come here with the belief that laws and rules don't apply to them and they're being treated unfairly because they want a special break. Don't confuse Immigration with Illegal Entry - it's two totally diferent issues.

Posted By Todd Skiles, Washington D.C. : 3:00 PM ET

Why haven't illegal mexicans like Aaron Paez already been deported? If he was seeking legalization, he would have started in mexico. These criminals that manage to sneak across our border seem to think they should be able to breed their way into citizenship by having a house full of kids that the US has to pay for. Paez and his "colleagues" (if they are also illegal) should be arrested and deported before the protest is over.

Posted By Perry, Dallas, Texas : 3:28 PM ET

Where's the INS buses!! Round 'em up and load 'em up and SHIP THEM HOME!! Hellloooo INS?!? Where are you at these rallies!! Duhhh!!

Posted By Cindy, Cincinnatti, OH : 3:49 PM ET

You're 100% right Todd.
Illegal means illegal a violation of our laws. If people don't like the law have it changed but if you are violating the law now you are a criminal. Enter legally and there will not be a problem. Crying about how illegals are treated by the workforce is brought on themselves.

Posted By Herb - Cedar Falls, Iowa : 3:55 PM ET

I hope they are at least waving American Flags.

Posted By Kathy Chicago,Il : 5:32 PM ET

How about assigning a non-Hispanic to cover some of the rallies, to give a different perspective for a change?

Posted By Robyn C., Pittsville, MD : 9:40 AM ET

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