Drive Back the Attack!

Immigrant rights are currently under attack on the local, state, and federal levels by harsh and punitive legislations and initiatives.The recent consideration by Congress to pass the REAL ID Act and state proposals to restrict immigrant access to driver’s licenses, education, and health care have prompted immigrant communities across the nation to raise their voices. From April 26-May 7, immigrants came together for the “Drive Back the Attack” National Week of Action.A total of 11 coordinated events took place nationwide. NAKASEC and affiliates mobilized a strong Korean American contingent to say no to attacks on immigrants and yes to immigration reform.

Los Angeles
On April 30, NAKASEC and its Los Angeles affiliate, KRC, took part in a march sponsored by the Multi-Ethnic Workers Organizing Network.The Los Angeles effort highlighted critical issues including legalization and wider immigration reform.More than four thousand people marched throughout Downtown Los Angeles to the historic La Placita, the birthplace of Los Angeles. HanNuRi-Korean American Cultural Troupe also marched in solidarity and played poongmool (Korean percussion ensemble).

New York
Community, labor, faith and immigrant rights groups united in a vigil and press conference organized by the New York Coalition for Immigrants’ Rights to Driver’s Licenses.More than 100 people participated in the event including New York State Senator Kevin S. Parker and New York Assemblyman Jose Peralta.During the press conference, YKASEC Legalization Committee Coordinator Jubum Cha spoke out against the REAL ID Act and expressed disappointment over the White House’s public support of the bill.