Demonstrators gathered across the country over the weekend to protest the Trump administration’s immigration policies, following the fatal shooting of a woman in Minneapolis.
In Fort Worth, police estimated that about 700 people joined a peaceful rally and march through downtown on Saturday. A smaller protest took place in Southlake’s Town Square.
Protesters held signs calling to abolish ICE and to honor the life of Renee Good, the woman killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer.
“We have to raise our voices, we can’t be silent,” said Dr. Michael Bell, senior pastor at Greater St. Stephen First Church, who stood alongside other members of the Fort Worth clergy.
“This is what this is about. Bringing us together and pushing back against the divisiveness,” Bell said.
Attendees carried signs with Good’s photo and called for an end to increased deportations under the Trump administration.
Fort Worth resident Kathy Johnson reflected on her father’s service in World War II.
“Those people didn’t fight for what is going on here. They fought against this kind of stuff, and I don’t want it. It doesn’t feel like where I want to live,” Johnson said.
Trump administration officials have said the ICE officer involved, Jonathan Ross, acted in self-defense when he shot Good as she fled during a confrontation on Wednesday. The case remains under investigation, and Minnesota officials and eyewitnesses have disputed the federal account.
“I think it’s very important to get people to vote because that’s the only way we are going to make change — and showing up like this, and showing people in power that we are not okay with this,” said Emily Carlos, a resident of Arlington.
In a statement Saturday, Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin defended ICE officers and their use of force.
“ICE officers are facing a nearly 1300% increase in assaults against them as they put their lives on the line to arrest murderers, rapists and gang members,” McLaughlin said.
“The First Amendment protects speech and peaceful assembly — not rioting, assault and destruction,” she added. “DHS is taking measures to uphold the rule of law and protect public safety and our officers.”
Fort Worth police said there were no disturbances or arrests made during Saturday’s demonstration.
Great Job Katy Blakey & the Team @ NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth for sharing this story.
