Thousands march in Seattle for immigrant rights

[High Plains]

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/local/6420AP_WA_Immigration_Protest_Seattle.html


SEATTLE -- Thousands of people, some carrying signs saying "We are not criminals," marched Monday afternoon in support of immigrant rights.

Marchers waved American flags and carried other signs that read "We love America and we work very hard." The demonstration had an international flavor, with participants from places including Mexico, South America and Africa.

"I'm already a citizen; these people are not criminals," said Moulaye Sidibe, who said he is from the Ivory Coast. "If your grandparents had been through this, you know it's not the right way."

The marchers began at St. Mary's Church in Seattle's Central District and marched to an evening rally at the downtown Federal Building.

One organizer estimated the crowd at 15,000 although police would not offer an official estimate. Reporters in helicopters estimated the marchers stretched for a mile or more along city streets.

[High Plains]

1. My girlfriend and I attended this march. Gave me goosebumps

Lots of American flags, but also Mexican and many others. The crowd stretched for more than a mile down 4th Avenue during the height of rush hour. Lots of families. Lots of young people. The mayor addressed the crowd at the end of the rally. He said 25,000 people.

My favorite sign: "We didn't cross the border--it crossed us."

[NorCalDem]

2. n/t

[High Plains]

3. Funny you should post that image. AIM guys in camo garb

provided security at the front of the march.

There was also some talk about America indigena from the speakers.

[NorCalDem]

4. nice :)

[High Plains]

5. As many as 35 or 40,000, according to the local CBS affiliate

These numbers across the country are impressive and dramatic.

[Child_Of_Isis]

6. I bet shrub is watching the crowds thinking...

mmmmm..... soldiers. (Homer Simpson voice)